From the current draft of the Third Edition of M14 Rifle History and Development:
"Some ingredients and properties of grease are defined as follows:
Anti-wear (AW) additive - Solid lubricant particles are dispersed in grease to prevent metal-to-metal contact of lubricated surfaces. These solid particles are known as anti-wear additives. Phosphorous and zinc compounds and suspended polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are common AW additives. Anti-wear additives are useful up to about 465 to 480 degrees Fahrenheit. Above that temperature range, anti-wear compounds begin to break down. Anti-wear additives will reduce the oxidation resistance of grease. Consequently, grease containing anti-wear additives will need to be reapplied much more often than grease without AW or oxidation inhibitor additives. . . .
Extreme pressure (EP) additive - An EP additive in grease prevents seizing of the sliding metal surfaces under very high pressure. Graphite and molybdenum disulfide are common EP additives and may also be used for service above 600 degrees Fahrenheit."
and
"The ideal M14 rifle grease should have: 1) the consistency of paste 2) good or better temperature resistance with minimal bleeding 2) good or better water resistance and 3) contain anti-wear, corrosion and oxidation inhibitors. Such properties are desireable because the M14 rifle is likely to perform in intemperate weather. Military specification MIL-PRF-63460 prohibits the use of graphite as an ingredient for Cleaner, Lubricant and Preservative. Since CLP is authorized for use in the Mk 14 Mod 0, and other military weapons subject to combat use, lubricant with graphite additive is not recommended."
