Without proper cleaning, dust, rust, or other debris could cause your firearm to fail when you need it most. Regular cleaning of your gun with solvents and oils can also extend its lifespan and make it safer for you to use. Gun cleaners are specially formulated to get into all the areas of a gun and provide a deep cleaning.
We have put together a review of 10 of the best choices for you. Let’s check them out!
Protection You Can Count On
The Ultimate Belly Band Gun Holster for Concealed Carry. This ComfortTac band holster supports firearms of many sizes and is available in right-hand and left-hand draw.
Our List of Gun Cleaning Oils
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1. Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Elite Gun Cleaning Kit
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Hoppe’s gun cleaners and oils have been a trusted brand since 1903. This product can be used to clean all types of firearms.
The cleaning solvent is specially formulated to penetrate deep into your gun and provide a quick and effective clean. In addition to keeping your gun clean, the formula also protects guns from getting damaged in the future. It comes in a 32-ounce bottle with a child-proof cap.
Pros
- 3-in-1 elite package
- You can clean all types of guns with this formula.
- This option is safe to use as frequently as you want.
- Using this product protects your weapon against future damage.
- Your purchase provides you with a lot of cleaner for a reasonable price.
Cons
- Some people are not a fan of the way this cleaner makes their gun smell.
2. Slip 2000 Extreme Weapons Lubricant (EWL)
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The Slip EWL is another great option to consider. This product is designed to protect your gun from corroding. It does not attract dust, sand, or dirt, so you won’t need to worry about debris getting stuck or building up on your gun.
This lubricant is designed to stay wet for five times as long as other lubricants. This reduces the friction on your gun and can increase its lifespan. Compared to other gun lubricants on the market we’re fairly confident that this is the best gun lube currently on market and as such is worthy of your consideration for use on your personal firearms.
You can safely use this cleaner on all the different parts of your gun. It does not damage any wood, plastic, or metal components.
Pros
- The lubricant stays wet five times longer than traditional options.
- It does not attract dust, dirt, sand, or other debris.
- This is non-toxic cleaner.
Cons
- You may find that this option is very messy to use because of how thin the lubricant is.
3. CLP by Sage & Braker
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Sage & Braker’s CLP thoroughly cleans your firearm without the use of any toxic chemicals. It also does not leave the oily residue that is common with so many other cleaners.
This product is designed to get into all the different pieces and components of your gun to provide a deep clean. It is designed using a solvent that penetrates and coats all of the moving parts of your gun, making it safer and more reliable.
When you use this cleaner, it can improve the performance of your gun by providing the different components with better heat dissipation. You may begin to notice that the accuracy of your shots improves.
Pros
- The solution penetrates into all the different components of your gun to leave them clean.
- The formula does not include any harmful or toxic chemicals.
- You may see an improvement in your shooting accuracy when you use this option.
Cons
- It leaves a strong and unpleasant odor behind.
4. Hornady 99901 One Shot Gun Cleaner
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If you’re looking for a product that won’t leave behind a strong odor, consider the Hornady Gun Cleaner and Case Lube. This aerosol lubricant is odorless. It also does not leave your gun with a tacky or sticky feeling.
Using this option to clean your gun reduces the build-up of lubricants, grime, and dirt in it. This allows your gun to operate better and reduces the chances of a malfunction.
Oil lubricants can make a big mess and get all over the place. This option can be used quickly and effectively without leaving oil all over your gun or the surface you were working on.
Pros
- This product allows you to clean without the mess associated with other lubricants.
- It does not leave an odor behind.
- Once dried, guns are not tacky or sticky.
Cons
- You may find that some other options do a better job cleaning your weapon.
5. Hoppe’s No. 9 Lubricating Gun Cleaner Oil
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Hoppe’s Synthetic Blend Oil is another product you may want to consider. This option is formulated to be used on modern firearms and can reduce the effects of friction on your guns. Using it creates a barrier to protect your weapons from corrosion or moisture.
Using this lubricant can keep your gun performing at peak levels. It keeps your shot accurate and reduce the risk of your gun malfunctioning when you need it most.
In addition to cleaning your firearms with this solution, it can also be used to lubricate fishing reels and other pieces of mechanical equipment.
Pros
- Using this product reduces the negative effects of friction on your guns.
- It provides a barrier to protect against moisture and corrosion.
- You can also use it as a lubricant for fishing reels.
Cons
- This is not a non-toxic product.
6. Hoppe’s Elite Foaming Firearm Cleaner
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If you’re looking for a foaming option, consider Hoppe’s Elite Cleaner. This spray-on foam is designed to deliver a deep cleaning to your firearm, leaving it ready to use. It penetrates deep into your weapon’s bore to effectively remove carbon and other built-up substances.
This option is non-toxic and non-flammable. It is also biodegradable and does not leave a foul odor behind.
Your purchase includes one four-ounce bottle of foaming cleaner. This option is ideal for use with block powder shoots.
Pros
- The foaming cleaner effectively penetrates deep into your gun to remove built-up residue.
- It is non-flammable and non-toxic.
- This is an odorless option.
Cons
- None
7. Lucas Gun Oil Original & Extreme Duty
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The Lucas Gun Oil set provides you with two different cleaning oils. Your purchase includes their standard Gun Oil and the Extreme Duty Gun Oil.
The standard gun oil is designed to be used in all weather types. It is heat-resistant, water-resistant, and does not leave any odor behind. The slick formula penetrates through to all the different components of a gun while also clinging to the parts to ensure proper lubrication.
The Extreme Duty Gun Oil is specially formulated to be used in firearms that produce a lot of heat and friction. The bottle includes a needle oiler for more accurate and precise application with less mess.
Pros
- Two different oils are included in this set.
- The standard Gun Oil is water- and heat-resistant and odorless.
- The Extreme Duty Gun Oil is ideal for use with firearms that produce a lot of friction or heat.
Cons
- You only receive one-ounce of the Extreme Duty Oiler.
8. Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner Spray
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The Hoppe’s Elite Spray is designed to provide a very thoroughly cleaning for your gun. It penetrates to the molecular pores of the steel and is able to effectively remove lead, carbon, and copper fouling. After removing these substances, it also conditions the metal to prevent future fouling.
When used regularly, this option can reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning your gun by up to 80%. The formula is non-toxic, non-flammable, biodegradable, and odorless.
Pros
- This product is formulated to removed copper, lead, and carbon fouling.
- It also conditions the metal to prevent fouling in the future.
- It is non-toxic and odorless.
Cons
- You may waste cleaner because of the spray design and not being able to apply it as precisely.
9. Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil
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Another aerosol option to consider is the Ballistol Oil. You can use this option to protect and lubricate a variety of items around the house in addition to your guns. It can safely be used on tools, leather, wood, locks, knives, and more.
The formula of this option does not contain any carcinogens. It is eco-friendly and does not harm skin.
This product comes in a six-ounce aerosol can. You can choose to purchase one can, a two-pack of cans, or a four-pack of cans.
Pros
- The formula lubricates and protects your firearms.
- It is eco-friendly and does not contain any carcinogens.
- You can also use this option to lubricate other items, such as locks, leather, and tools.
Cons
- This is not an odorless option, and many people do not like the way it smells.
10. Break-Free CLP-2 Cleaner Lubricant Preservative
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Finally, the Break-Free CLP Cleaner is another option you’ll want to consider. It is designed to penetrate all the surfaces of your gun and get into tight areas to leave them clean and lubricated. The formula also includes corrosion inhibitors to prevent rust from building up and keep the surfaces of your gun protected.
This product can be used in all climates. It is designed to withstand extreme heat, cold, or humidity without drying up.
CLP is one of the oldest most trusted names in the gun cleaning industry, your parents or grandparents might even recognize the brand. In addition to aerosol applications the company also offers pre-saturated gun oil wipes too if you need a portable option and don’t have a soft rag available. The CLP gun oil wipes have even been co-branded by Mossy Oak, which is yet another storied vote of confidence in an already highly reviewed oil manufacturer.
Pros
- It cleans, lubricates, and provides protection for your firearms.
- It has corrosion inhibitors to prevent rust.
- The formula does not dry up even in extreme climates.
Cons
- Controlling the spray and the amount of oil dispenses is not easy.
Verdict & Review
Hoppe's No. 9 Gun Elite Gun Cleaning Kit
Pros
- You can clean all types of guns with this formula.
- This option is safe to use as frequently as you want.
- Using this product protects your weapon against future damage.
- Your purchase provides you with a lot of cleaner for a reasonable price.
Cons
- Some people are not a fan of the way this cleaner makes their gun smell.
While we think all 10 of the gun cleaners we reviewed above are excellent products, Hoppe’s Gun Bore Cleaner is our top pick. You’ll be able to use this option to provide a thorough cleaning for all of your firearms.
The formula is designed to penetrate deep into the gun and clean all of the components. Regular cleaning of your weapon with this product keeps it protected against future damage or malfunctions.
You can safely use this product to clean your firearms as frequently as you want. When compared to many other options, this is also a very reasonably-priced option.
Oil & Cleaner Buyer’s Guide for Shooters
Regular gun cleaning is an essential task when you’re a gun owner. Keeping your gun clean allows it to function properly, prevents malfunctions, and ensures your gun is always ready when you need it.
Since there are many different options to consider when looking for a gun cleaner, we’ve compiled a brief buying guide. We’ve highlighted a few key features you’ll want to consider before making a purchase.
Compatibility with Your Firearms
First, you should always confirm that the cleaners you are looking at are compatible with the weapons you have. Some cleaners are not meant to be used on certain types of firearms, so you should check this before making a purchase.
Solvent Type
The next big decision you’ll want to make is which cleaning solvent type you’d prefer to use. There are four main options to consider: liquid solvents, foaming solvents, aerosol sprays and CLP cleaners:
- Liquid solvents: Liquids can be very effective for removing copper, lead, and carbon residues inside your gun. However, they can be messier than other options and may leave a greasy residue if you use too much at a time.
- Foaming solvents: This option is good for getting at built-up reside in your gun and removing it. They are easier to apply than liquid solvents and won’t leave as much of a mess.
- Aerosol sprays: Aerosol sprays do an excellent job getting into all the different components inside your gun. They are also good at removing debris or other built-up residues. However, it can also be easy to use too much aerosol and waste the product.
- CLP cleaners: In addition to cleaning firearms, CLP cleaners are also designed to lubricate and protect weapons. Using a CLP cleaner can protect against corrosion and get rid of built-up debris and grime. You need to be careful not to use too much at a time, as this could reduce the performance of your weapon.
Quantity & Cost
Before making a purchase, you should also compare the prices of the different options you’re considering. Be sure to take into account how much of each cleaning solution you’ll receive for the amount you’ll be paying.
Gun Cleaner FAQ:
What can I use to clean a gun?
When cleaning a gun, there are a few key items you’ll want to have on hand. First, you’ll want a lubricant or cleaning solution that loosens and removes any built-up residue or debris. You also want to have a cleaning mat to keep your area clean and small, soft cloths for cleaning all the different components of the gun.
Can you use WD 40 to clean a gun?
It is not recommended to use WD 40 to clean a gun. Unlike cleaners and lubricants specially designed for use with firearms, WD 40 does not lubricate your gun. Since it is designed to evaporate and leave a surface dry, it does not leave any oily residue inside your weapon, which could cause your gun to overheat or prevent the parts from operating correctly.
WD 40 can also attract dust, which can build-up inside your gun and cause problems.
Can you clean a gun too much?
No, more frequent cleanings should not damage a gun. When you use a gun cleaner, it removes dust, grime, and other debris from your gun. This can make sure these substances don’t build up inside your gun and cause it to malfunction or impact your accuracy.
Cleaning a gun also leaves it well lubricated. This can ensure that all the different components of the gun function properly and work well together.
