If you’ve spent any time looking at the options available for the best gun cleaning solvents, you may well have been quite overwhelmed at the sheer amount of options available to you.
There’s certainly no shortage of choice when it comes to gun cleaning solvents, but luckily we’ve gone out and tested the eleven best gun cleaning solvents, so you see the best option on the market today.
At A Glance: Our Top 5 Gun Cleaning Solvents
When owning a firearm, it’s essential to clean it regularly and keep it maintained for it to continue working correctly, over time a lot of gunk can accumulate in a firearm which will affect its performance and ability to work correctly. A gun that isn’t functioning correctly is not only a danger to yourself but also anyone located around you.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the best gun cleaning solvents on the market today and what you can expect from each one.
- [amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”Best Gun Cleaner: Hoppe’s No. 9″] OUR TOP CHOICE
- [amazon link=”B00BVMFRE0″ title =”Best Gun Lubricating Oil: Hoppe’s No. 9″]
- [amazon link=”B01BLS2P1Q” title =”Best CLP Cleaner: CLP by Sage & Braker”]
- [amazon link=”B0134X749E” title =”Best All-in-one Gun Cleaner: Grizzly Lube”]
- [amazon link=”B003H6DHBS” title =”Best Gun Cleaning Kit: M-Pro 7 Tactical”]
The Best Gun Cleaning Solvent Of [current_date format=’Y’]: Our #1 Pick
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Our pick for the best gun cleaning solvent is [amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”the Hoppe’s No.9 Gun Bore Cleaner.”] Not only does Hoppe’s create a high-quality product to clean firearms, but this product also helps to revive in the dirtiest and worn-out guns. Cleaning the bore of a gun with this product is a very quick process and can be done even if you’ve not cleaned your gun for a very long time.
Combine the Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner with lubricating oil, and you’re well on your way to your gun being in the best possible condition it can be.
[amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner”]
[amazon box=”B00109AAN2″]
Why Is The Hoppe’s No. 9 The Best Gun Cleaner?
[amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner”] is the best gun cleaner out of the ones we tested. Hoppe’s have a long history of producing high-quality gun cleaning solvent, with their origin dating all the way back to 1903.
Their No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner is safe and easy to use, each bottle is fitted with a childproof cap. The cleaner penetrates deep and rapidly and will free any gunk or grit that sticks to the bore of your gun. One of the most recognizable aspects of any Hoppe’s gun lubricant is the scent, and fans of Hoppe’s products will be pleased to hear that this formula has the same distinct scent.
Depending on the size of your firearm, you may want to dip some of the Hoppe’s formula onto a bore snake cleaning rod to clean every part of the bore. The formula will help to revive even the dirtiest of firearms; for some cleaning jobs, you may want to pair the Hoppe’s cleaner with a CLP. If you’re going to use the Hoppe’s formula on its own, then this will also work effectively.
Any cleaning job with Hoppe’s No.9 Gun Bore Cleaner won’t take long, and as long as you keep your gun adequately maintained, then Hoppe’s will be there for you every step of the way in keeping your gun clean.
The Best Bore Cleaner: Bore Tech Eliminator Bore Cleaner
[amazon link=”B007X0PPXW” title =”The Bore Tech Eliminator Bore Cleaner”] is a patented, fast-acting, barrel safe, non-ammonia bore cleaner that helps to remove carbon and copper fouling from inside the bore of your firearm.
One of the best aspects of this cleaner is the lack of ammonia found in the formula. Ammonia can be particularly harmful to the metal found in the bore of a firearm, particularly if left on too long. With Bore Techs’ formula, you can be safe in the knowledge that you can leave the cleaner on the firearm for as long as you need to.
[amazon link=”B007X0PPXW” title =”Bore Tech Eliminator Bore Cleaner”]
[amazon box=”B007X0PPXW”]
The Bore Tech cleaner also contains a short term rust preventative which shields and conditions the firearms bore after cleaning for up to two weeks. The cleaner works well at removing both copper and carbon removal.
The odor of the cleaner is not too strong, and won’t stink out whatever area you are cleaning your firearm in. This is worth noting, particularly if you have any kind of respiratory issues like asthma. Some gun solvents have a particularly strong odor, so it’s worth considering that when choosing which cleaner or lubricant to go for.
The Best Gun Cleaner Spray: The Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner
[amazon link=”B0007D6VY4″ title =”Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner”] was designed for the serious shooter. While most gun cleaners simply remove the gunk found inside a bore, Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner also conditions the metal to repel future fouling. The formula also has a low odor, which means it won’t make a room or area smell for an extended period of time.
[amazon link=”B0007D6VY4″ title =”Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner”]
[amazon box=”B0007D6VY4″]
The cleaning process for using Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner is slightly different from using Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner. As the Elite Gun Cleaner comes as a spray, you’ll want to apply it to the inside of the bore from the muzzle end, to prevent metal on metal contact happening between the bore and the rod. This will limit any damage to your firearm when you’re in the process of cleaning it.
For smaller guns, you’ll want to thoroughly soak a cleaning patch with Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner and then use a rod to clean the bore. Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner is also non-flammable and biodegradable, which goes a long way to helping make the gun cleaner more safe and environmentally friendly.
Best Gun Lubricating Oil: The HOPPE’S No. 9
[amazon link=”B00BVMFRE0″ title =”Hoppe’s No.9 Synthetic Blend”] is one of the most popular cleaning agents among gun owners. Hoppe’s No.9 Synthetic Blend is a little bit different from the other Hoppe’s products we’ve reviewed so far as it’s a gun lubricant oil rather than a cleaner. The Hoppe’s No.9 Synthetic Blend is a viscous oil, and the standard size of the bottle is 14.9 ml.
Hoppe’s note that this oil is specially designed for modern firearm. We particularly noticed how smooth the oil left the action of the gun feeling. After use, the oil showed no signs of gumming, and the firearm ran very smoothly after application. We have noticed how effective the lubrication oil is if it’s used alongside a Hoppe’s gun cleaner, such as [amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner.”]
[amazon link=”B00BVMFRE0″ title =”HOPPE’S No. 9 Synthetic Blend”]
[amazon box=”B00BVMFRE0″]
Using a combo of the two products should leave your firearm sufficiently lubricated as well as clear of any gunk and grime. Hoppe’s No.9 Synthetic Blend can also be used to lubricate knives, fishing rods, door handles, and other objects that may require it. This makes the product multi-purpose, so you’re really getting value for money with this product.
This oil provides superior lubrication and protection to all areas of your firearm, which will reduce the wear and tear caused by friction. The oil provides a barrier against moisture and corrosion and will leave our firearm feeling slick and ready for action.
The Best Aerosol Cleaner: The Ballistol Multi-Purpose
[amazon link=”B002A3364M” title =”The Ballistol Multi-Purpose Lubricant Cleaner”] comes in a 4 oz non-aerosol can, which is perfect for lubricating and protecting firearms. The product is biodegradable so that it won’t harm the environment.
Ballistol first developed its gun cleaner spray for the German army over 100 years ago. Considering Germany’s strong traditions in engineering, it’s no wonder that Ballistol has created such a reliable product.
[amazon link=”B002A3364M” title =”Ballistol Multi-Purpose”]
[amazon box=”B002A3364M”]
Ballistol emulsifies with water, and when the water evaporates, the Ballistol stays behind to protect whatever material it is used on. This gives the material a non-sticky feeling, and the oil counteracts the effects of corrosive ammo. When you’re using Ballistol, it’s a good idea to have a pack of wipes handy, so you can easily clean any residue that’s leftover after use.
If you’re familiar with the Ballistol Multi-Purpose Lubricant cleaner, then you’ll know it really does live up to its name. Many people not only use ballistol on their firearms, but they also use it to clean knives, leather boots, engines, wheels, and a host of other items.
The fumes that the product creates are also non-toxic, so you don’t need to worry about using any kind of facial or eye protection when you’re using the product. Ballistol has a reasonably strong odor but not as bad as some other cleaning products on the market.
Just like it’s done for over 100 years, if you choose Ballistol, you can be sure you’re getting a top-quality product that will protect your firearm from rust and grime and keep it functioning at its peak capability.
The Best Rust Remover: The Outers Rust Remover
[amazon link=”B000ZLUA18″ title =”Outers Rust Remover”] is the leading product on the market to remove rust from your gun. The product comes in a 2 oz bottle, and if you’re armed with the rust removal product and a brush, you’re ready to get to work. Outers Rust Remover will protect against rust and corrosion without removing gun bluing.
[amazon link=”B000ZLUA18″ title =”Outers Rust Remover”]
[amazon box=”B000ZLUA18″]
Outers Rust Remover is also one of the least expensive gun cleaning products on the market, and you can safely use it to remove rust from other objects and products, not just firearms.
As it’s just a rust remover, you may well need other gun cleaning products alongside this one if you’re looking to give your firearm a deeper clean.
Best CLP Gun Cleaner: The CLP by Sage & Braker
The first thing you may notice about [amazon link=”B01BLS2P1Q” title =”CLP by Sage & Braker”] is the unique smell it has. It certainly will make you take notice. CLP stands for clean, lube, and protect, which sums up the product nicely.
The product cleans equipment incredibly well. Sage & Braker have done an excellent job of making sure the product is non-toxic, is biodegradable non-hazardous, so you can use the product safe in the knowledge that you’re not damaging the environment or your own health.
[amazon link=”B01BLS2P1Q” title =”CLP by Sage & Braker”]
[amazon box=”B01BLS2P1Q”]
One of the unique selling points of CLP is the highly penetrating solvent that Sage & Braker that will infiltrate every surface on a micro level to provide a deep clean. The formula used by Sage & Braker contains no harsh chemicals that can damage your gun.
The lubrication helps to coat and protect the bore and all moving parts of your firearm. Sage & Braker note that their CLP formula provides improved heat dissipation resulting in cooler weapon operating temperatures.
Several users have also noticed that Sage and Braker CLP helps to repel dust and sand, which other CLP’s can attract. Sage & Braker, while developing the product, spoke to deployed soldiers, and they found that soldiers were having problems when it came to keeping their firearms clean.
This level of detail and depth that Sage and Braker have gone into at developing CLP really makes the product stand out.
Extra Strength Bore Cleaner: The Shooters Choice MC #7
[amazon link=”B0095I4YFA” title =”Shooters Choice MC #7″] extra strength bore cleaner is an ammonia-free bore cleaner that will quickly remove copper, lead, carbon, and powder fouling from your gun. The solution is safe to use on a variety of different firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
[amazon link=”B0095I4YFA” title =”Shooters Choice MC #7″]
[amazon box=”B0095I4YFA”]
With the solution being ammonia-free, you can be safe in the knowledge that the formula will not damage your gun. The solution is quick, safe, and easy to apply. If you need to clean the bore of your firearm thoroughly, then apply some of the cleaner on the cleaning rod you’re using and feed it through the bore so that it can remove any grime or gunk that has accumulated.
Due to the strength of the product, it does have a rather strong odor to it, so keep this in mind when you apply the cleaner.
Best All-in-one Gun Cleaner: The Grizzly Lube
[amazon link=”B0134X749E” title =”The Grizzly Lube Non-Toxic CLP”] all-in-one gun cleaner, lubricant, and protectant is a USDA certified bio-based gun lube. The solution comes in a 4 oz leak-proof container and contains a strong formula that helps to destroy rust and season your gun to reduce jamming and friction so that your weapon can fire smoothly.
The solution will also help to eliminate fouling, which can prevent your firearm from firing adequately.
[amazon link=”B0134X749E” title =”Grizzly Lube Non-Toxic CLP”]
[amazon box=”B0134X749E”]
What’s great about the Grizzly Lube solution is how easy it is to apply. When you apply the solution, you may be surprised at how little residue is left over; this works well at preventing you from using too much of the solution or wasting what you have used.
Grizzly Lube takes pride in the fact that their product is designed to meet the rigorous standards of the US Special Forces, with the product also being USDA approved you can be sure that you are getting a product that meets the highest possible standards.
One thing we did notice with the product is that it works better as a lubricant than it does a cleaner. It does a great job at lubricating a firearm, but some other products we tested work better at actually cleaning a gun. The consistency of the oil is also quite thick, which means you don’t have to apply a lot when you’re looking to lubricate your firearm.
We would also recommend using a cotton swab if you really want to get into the nooks and crannies of your firearm. To keep your hands free from getting any of the solution on them you may want to use gloves when applying the product, this also means your hands won’t get covered in any oil or grime from the firearm.
Overall, Grizzly Lube has made a great product that will work well at lubricating, even the stiffest of guns. The fact that it’s met US military standards highlights the lengths that the manufacturer has gone to ensure the quality of the lube.
Best Combo Option: The Hoppe’s 9 Elite Gun Cleaning Kit
[amazon link=”B07P1FX1PV” title =”The Hoppe’s 9 Elite Gun Cleaning Kit”] is the perfect solution if you’re looking for a complete kit for your gun cleaning needs. The kit comes with Hoppe’s 9 Lubricating Oil, and the Hoppe’s No.9 Bore Cleaner so you can give the bore of your gun a deep clean, while also lubricating your firearm sufficiently.
The Hoppes solution is excellent for removing primer, powder, lead, and metal fouling from your gun, and it will also work well at preventing rust from occurring.
[amazon link=”B07P1FX1PV” title =”Hoppe’s 9 Elite Gun Cleaning Kit”]
[amazon box=”B07P1FX1PV”]
The high-viscosity lubrication oil that Hoppe’s manufacture has been refined to perfection since 1903 for use in firearms, fishing reels and other precision mechanisms. The lubricating oil does not become rancid after you apply it and will keep your gun feeling smooth as you load and unload your firearm.
Both solutions can be used as often as required, so if you are using a gun often and it requires regular cleaning, both Hoppe’s products are up to the job.
Included in the cleaning kit are 2’’ 40 count patches that you can apply either of the solutions to. The patches are made of cotton so they won’t damage or scratch your gun, but do watch out for threads of cotton coming off the patches and make sure no residue of either solution is left behind on your weapon.
The Hoppe’s 9 Elite Gun Cleaning Kit is the best combo option if you’re looking for a bore and lubricant package for your firearm.
Best Gun Cleaning Kit: The M-Pro 7 Tactical
[amazon link=”B003H6DHBS” title =”M-Pro 7 Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam”] is one of the best gun cleaning kits on the market. The product was designed with the needs of tactical shooters in mind. The kit contains all the products and tools needed to clean and maintain weapons for optimal performance and reliability.
The package is perfect for law enforcement and military weapons as well for firearms that are used recreationally.
[amazon link=”B003H6DHBS” title =”M-Pro 7 Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam”]
[amazon box=”B003H6DHBS”]
This is the most complete firearm cleaning package that we tested; the kit includes everything from a 4 oz M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner all the way through to a gun rod and utility cloth. The kit is also beneficial if you’ve been looking for a kit that is suitable for a range of different firearms.
With this in mind, if you’re unsure what material your firearm is made out of then, it’s worth taking it to a professional who can give you expert guidance on which products are suitable for cleaning your weapon. The last thing you’d want to do is potentially damage your product when cleaning it, and a professional can help you avoid this potential problem.
We also noticed that the cleaning products included in the kit have virtually no smell whatsoever, and the solution eats through carbon easily. You can apply a liberal dose of the cleaner down the barrel of your firearm and clean the rest of the parts while the solution soaks in.
Once the solution has soaked into the barrel, you can use the bore brush and the dry swabs to complete the job.
After you’ve cleaned your firearm, you can use the cloths that come with the kit to clean up any residue that is left over. If you’re looking for a complete solution for cleaning your firearm/s, then [amazon link=”B003H6DHBS” title =”the M-Pro 7 Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam”] has everything you need to make sure your firearm is taken care of.
How Do You Know Which Gun Cleaning Solvent to Go For?
Now that we’ve taken a look at the wide range of gun cleaning solvents on the market, it’s time to take a deeper look at why you should even consider using a gun solvent and how to go about selecting one.
Why Are Gun Cleaning Solvents Important?
To put it simply, your firearm won’t function properly if you don’t keep it clean. Neglecting the maintenance and hygiene of your firearm is also a safety risk.
When the bore of your firearm is blocked or has any kind of dirt or gunk obstructing the ammo or shell, then both you and anyone around you are at risk if the firearm can’t fire properly then there could be deadly consequences.
Over time firearms will inevitably be damaged and corrosion, rust will build up. Keeping your firearm clean and maintained will stop it from jamming, keep all the moving parts functioning correctly and keep your gun working for years to come.
A good solvent will make the cleaning process all the more efficient. As we’ve noted, many solvents help to dissolve and destroy the buildup of gunk and debris from inside the barrel of your gun. Having a good lubricant at hand will also help to keep all the moving parts of the gun working efficiently, which will lead to the smoothest and safest experience possible.
What Equipment Do You Need?
While having a solvent is important, it’s not the only piece of equipment you’ll need. Having both a gun cleaner and a lubricant oil on hand is advisable if you want to ensure your giving your firearm a thorough and deep clean.
It’s also advisable to have a set of clothes and also some cotton buds so that you can reach all of the nooks and crannies where dirt and gunk can accumulate.
Gun Cleaning Tips
The first tip we can give is to think of how regularly the firearm you’re using is cleaned. Maybe you’re new to the world of firearms and picking up a firearm that’s had a previous owner; in this case, it’s worth asking about the guns cleaning history; this will give you an idea of what condition the gun is in and how deeper clean it requires.
Before you decide on which solvent to use, you want to make sure you know what material your gun is made out of. Some solvents are more suitable for different materials than others; we would also recommend picking up a solvent that is ammonia-free. Ammonia can cause damage to certain metals, so picking up an ammonia-free solvent helps to negate the risk of any damage occurring.
To thoroughly clean the bore of your gun, you need to have an adequately sized cleaning rod, the size of the rod you use will depend on the type of firearm you’re cleaning. Once you’ve got the rod, you can apply some solvent to it and clean the bore of your gun; you may want to do this multiple times to ensure that all the dirt and grime gets removed.
For each time you put the rod down the bore, you’ll want to reapply some solvent to keep the rod wet so it can remain effective at cleaning. If there are any patches of liquid or residue left over once you’ve cleaned your firearm, then use a cloth or cotton pad to mop up any leftovers.
Benefits of Gun Regular Cleaning
We’ve already mentioned a few of the benefits of regular gun cleaning throughout the article, but it never hurts to reiterate them. First and foremost, regular cleaning keeps your firearm safe. Safety is always the most important thing regarding any gun, and keeping your weapon clean helps to keep it safe and secure.
A clean gun is a reliable gun, and a reliable gun will last for years and have a much longer lifespan than a firearm that is poorly maintained. Perhaps you own a gun that has been in the family for generations, or you know someone who has owned the same gun for years, it really is amazing at how far regular cleaning, oiling, and correct storing of a gun will go to keeping it in prime condition.
Regular cleaning of your gun will also give you in-depth knowledge of how your gun works and functions. You’ll learn how the different parts interact with each other, how to make sure the gun is loaded correctly, and all the safety features work.
Knowing how your gun functions and how to use it correctly gives you the best possible chance at avoiding any mishaps or accidents occurring.
How to Store a Gun to Prevent Rust
Once you’ve cleaned your gun, it’s time to store it away. You want to store your gun in a way that will prevent rust, what’s the point in cleaning your gun regularly just to store it in a way that will lead it to rust? Luckily by following some simple steps, you can ensure your gun remains rust-free.
The first step is to ensure your gun is stored in a cool, dry place. Any moisture present can cause your gun to rust. If you want to be particularly precise, the NRA advises that you keep your gun stored at a constant of 70 degrees with a humidity between 50 to 55%.
Don’t worry too much if you don’t have a place to match these exact conditions, keeping your gun in the driest place possible should ensure that it remains rust-free. To go one step further, you may also want to consider coating your gun with a thin layer of oil regularly; doing so will keep water from contacting the surface of the metal on your gun and stop rust from gathering.
What Is The Best Gun Cleaning Solvent?
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This article should have given you a comprehensive insight into what to look out for when you’re deciding which gun cleaning solvent to go for. The main thing to remember as a gun owner is to be responsible. By keeping your gun clean and properly maintained, you’re well on your way to making sure your firearm remains safe to use and in its optimum condition.
Our top pick for the best gun cleaning solvent is [amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”the Hoppe’s No.9 Gun Bore Cleaner.”] It’s the best product on the market if you’re to give the bore of your gun a comprehensive and deep clean.
There’s a reason that out of the eleven gun cleaning solvents we’ve reviewed, Hoppe’s products make up three of them. They have a history of making high-quality products and having everything you need to ensure that your gun remains in peak condition.
If you regularly clean your gun, you will not only get value for money, but you’ll also be ensuring that your firearm remains working for years to come. A high-quality firearm is an investment, and you want to ensure that your experiences with firearms are the best they can be.
By following the cleaning tips we’ve laid out, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your enjoyment of firearms.
[amazon link=”B00109AAN2″ title =”Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner”]
[amazon box=”B00109AAN2″]