A clean gun takes you halfway to victory; this belief has been taught in several academies since WWII. The main reason for such a bold statement is that uncleaned guns have a high rate of failure. For instance, the gun’s barrel attracts dust, contains carbon residue, and gets eroded over time.
As a result, the gun’s barrel causes more friction for the bullet and causes it to deflect from the target, or worse, it may fail to fire at all. In this regard, cleaning your guns regularly with the best gun cleaner in the market is extremely important for everyone. Therefore, this article provides a list of the top 10 best gun cleaners and oils that you can purchase in 2022.
Top 10 Best gun cleaners for 2022: Comparison
| Products | Features |
| Hoppes 9 Elite Gun Cleaning kit | Cleaning solventLubricantNo expiry date |
| BreakFree CLP Gun Cleaner | Aerosol CanLubricate + CleanAnti-rust |
| Mossy Oak Gun Oil | All-in-OneSpray bottleAnti-freeze |
| Real Avid Gun Cleaner Spray | Suitable for all gun parts clean without patches to-position nozzle straw |
| CCS Lucas Oil Extreme Duty | Needle oilerRecommended by manufacturers lubrication action |
| M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner | Anti-dustAnti-trust military-grade protection |
| Birchwood Casey Gun Scrubber Cleaner | Gun scrubberFast evaporationSuitable for automatics |
| Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil | Made in the USAMulti-purpose alkaline in nature |
| Clenzoil Field & Range Saturated Gun Oil Wipes | Multi-purpose wipesOne-step cleaningCleaning + lubrication |
| Ultrasonic Gun Cleaner Solution | Engineered for gun universal gun cleaner Non-corrosive |
Top 10 Best gun cleaners for 2022: Reviews
1. Hoppes 9 Elite Gun Cleaning Kit
Pros
- No Expiry dates
- High-viscosity oil
- Anti-rust
- Ultra-effective cleaning solvent
- Up to 40 cleaning patches
Cons
- It is only suitable for .38, 9mm. 40.44 and .45 Caliber Guns.
Features
- Complete cleaning formula
- Gun bore cleaner
- Lubricant oil
- 25-40 cleaning patches
- Suitable for .40 .44 .45 .38, and 9mm Caliber
Hoppes is perhaps the most well-known manufacturer of guns and accessories. The No.9 Elite gun cleaner is universally accepted as the best cleaning solution globally. Most gun cleaning kits don’t come with cleaning solvent and oil.
In this regard, it is in your interest to purchase the best possible cleaner for your guns, and the Elite Gun Cleaning Kit is surely the best suitable option for you.
The kit includes everything you need to clean your handguns and firearms efficiently. The cleaning solvent is a powerful solution that dissolves primer, lead, gunpowder residue, and collected dust. Moreover, it also removes rust that accumulates inside the bore over time.
Similarly, the kit also includes a bottle of lubricating oil. The high-viscosity oil slowly flows inside the bore to lubricate even the inaccessible parts without completely disassembling your gun.
Lastly, you don’t need to buy the cleaning patches separately as the kit comes with up to 40 of them.
Pro Tip
Hoppes No.9 Elite cleaning kit is the one-stop solution for all your gun cleaning needs. Moreover, it doesn’t expire or get bad unless you leave the bottles open for several hours.
2. BreakFree CLP Gun Cleaner
Pros
- High weather tolerance
- Universal cleaning solution
- Instant cleaning action
- Military-grade
- Lubricates the gun
Cons
- You need a special kit to wipe the gun’s interior.
Features
- Removes powder residue
- Lubricates the gun
- Aerosol Can
- No need for cleaning patches
- No waiting times
BreakFree has been US Military’s favorite brand for several years. They use their solutions to clean everything from guns, pistols, rifles, and even tanks. The instant cleaning solution comes in two variants, a spray bottle and a spray can.
So, you can directly spray it on the gun and wipe it with a cloth to efficiently clean your guns. In short, if you are looking for field-friendly Gun Cleaners, I suggest that you get one of these. The aerosol can come with a small pipe to spray directly on a specific gun part.
For instance, you can insert the spray pipe inside the bore to remove dust, residue, and rust without a bore snake.
Similarly, if the trigger feels hard, you can spray this cleaning solution to add to your comfort. Furthermore, the solvent has no waiting time, and you can wipe it as soon as you finish spraying.
Pro Tip
BreakFree CLP is an all-weather gun cleaner. You can even use it in freezing weather conditions without worrying about gun failure.
3. Mossy Oak Gun Oil
Pros
- Non-greasy coating
- No damage to gunstocks
- Removes rust and residue
- All-weather solution
- Safe for all weapons and holsters
Cons
- The solution dissolves paints.
Features
- Gun cleaner and lubricant
- One-step solution
- It doesn’t harm the gunstocks
- All-weather solution
- Large 8 Oz Bottle
- Sports-friendly
Mossy Oak is the top-recommended brand for guns sports. This gun oil is the ultimate solution for all sorts of sports weapons and holsters. The oil is self-spreading and chemically inert. In short, if you want a multi-purpose cleaning solution for all your equipment, I suggest that you get the Mossy Oak cleaner.
The gun oil is highly effective in removing dust, residue, rust, and natural oils from both the gun’s interior and exterior. Moreover, it is recommended for most guns as the solution doesn’t damage any factory-made stocks like wood, leather, plastic, carbon, and copper.
Similarly, the solution instantly removes oil and other corrosive reagents from the gun. The solution is specifically formulated for weapons as it doesn’t harm lead, polymers, or other gun stocking material.
Pro Tip
Mossy Oak gun oil protects the gun with a special film that prevents corrosion and dust accumulation. However, it is best to let the solution dry for at least 30-minutes to avoid damaging the film before forming.
4. Real Avid Gun Cleaner Spray
Pros
- No-brush solution
- Self-spreading spray
- Effective for all gun types
- Gentle on gunstocks and colors
- Affordable price
Cons
- lubricate the gun afterward.
Features
- No-brushing formula
- Safe for custom finishes
- All-parts cleaner
- Dual-action nozzle blaster
- Dedicated Gun Cleaner
Real Avid is among the top-selling gun cleaner brands on Amazon. Their products are highly reliable as most of them have years of research and innovation behind them. For instance, the Real Avid Gun Spray is a specially formulated solution dedicated to cleaning guns and gun parts.
It is an ultra-fast action solvent that removes up to 99% of contaminants without leaving a foul smell. So, if you don’t want to try a new product, I suggest that you purchase a Real Avid cleaner.
The cleaning solution is ultra-fast in its operation. All you need is to spray the solvent over various parts of the gun, and the solution will take care of the rest.
Moreover, you don’t need to brush or scrub the gun with special tools to remove dirt and rust. Furthermore, it also removes grease, powder residue, and all other environmental contaminants without damaging the gun itself.
The chemical is gentle on the gun finishes regardless of the material.
Pro Tip
Real Avid Gun cleaner is the ultimate, reliable solution for professionals and amateurs alike. However, it is just a solvent, and you need to lubricate the gun after cleaning.
5. CCS Lucas Oil Extreme Duty
Pros
- Fume-free
- Protective coating
- Universal gun cleaner
- No foul smell
- Safe for polymer pistols
- Affordable price
Cons
- The oil doesn’t offer instant cleaning and needs some time to dry.
Features
- High-density
- All-weather friendly
- Suitable for all types of guns
- Cleaning solvent
- Protection coating
- Anti-rust
CCS Lucas is more than your average gun oil. It is the perfect blend of rust, carbon-catching solvent, and gun protection. It is also one of the cheapest options on the list.
However, don’t judge its efficiency from its price, as the solution provides such cleaning that you can only get with high-end solutions. So, if you are low on budget, I suggest that you check this one out.
The CCS oil solution is originally intended for fully automatic rifles and guns. However, it is equally suitable for semi-automatic pistols, shotguns, rifles, and air guns.
The cleaning action of the solvent rids the gun’s barrel and bore from rust, dust, powder residue, and accumulated carbon with minimal brushing.
Moreover, its high density allows you to use the oil even at freezing temperatures. The best part is that the oil covers the gun with a durable coating that prevents all the gun parts from corrosion.
Pro Tip
CCS Lucas is a fume-free gun cleaner. So, it is safe to use even if you have children or pets in the house. However, it would be best to keep it out of reach from children.
6. M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner
Pros
- Protective film
- No need for lubrication
- Removes rust and dust
- Suitable for all types of guns
- Doesn’t damage the gunstocks
Cons
- You need to use it with a bore snake and brush.
Features
- All-in-one solution
- Protective film
- Doesn’t need lubricant
- Multi-purpose
- Reduces friction
- Increases gun’s lifespan
The M-Pro 7 is yet another gun cleaner by Hoppes No.9. As you know, Hoppes is the largest manufacturer of gun cleaning equipment, so it won’t be wrong to expect a little extra from their products.
In this case, the M-Pro 7 is a multi-purpose cleaner that you can use on various metal surfaces. It is formulated with special chemicals that dissolve all rust and residue without damaging the gun stocking.
This gun cleaner is the ultimate cleaning solution for your whole workshop. You can use it to clean all types of guns, weapons, and holsters.
Furthermore, the cleaner doesn’t need additional lubrication after cleaning as the solution includes a protective film.
However, you need to use a bore snake to insert the cleaning solution inside the gun. The protective film protects the gun from dust, rust, residue, and environmental hazards till your next cleaning schedule.
Pro Tip
It isn’t a self-spreading solution, and you need a bore snake to penetrate the fluid inside the gun. Moreover, it would be best to let the solution work for at least 30-minutes before firing the gun.
7. Birchwood Casey Gun Scrubber Cleaner
Pros
- Universal Cleaning solvent
- Gun scrubber
- Anti-rust
- Degreaser
- Easy to use
Cons
- The solvent may damage gunstocks.
Features
- Large bottle
- Aerosol Can Spray
- Anti-jam action
- Fast evaporation
- Suitable for automatic weapons
Birchwood is the ultimate cleaning solution for those who regularly work with metal objects. The solution is specially designed to loosen all rust, debris, and gunpowder deposits from all parts of the gun.
Moreover, you can use it to clean all metal objects. So, if you are only looking for a gun cleaner rather than an all-in-one solution, Birchwood Casey is the best option for you.
The aerosol can allow you to spray the fluid on all parts of the gun. The solution slowly loosens the accumulated residue and rust so that you can wipe it with a bore snake or brush.
Moreover, the rapid action allows you to blast the spray just 15-minutes before shooting to avoid jamming the gun.
However, the solution can damage gunstocks and other peripherals. Other than that, Birchwood cleaning fluid is the best for cleaning all sorts of metals.
Pro Tip
The cleaning solution damages gunstocks along with the rust and debris. Therefore, it would be best to cover the sensitive components before blasting the cleaning spray.
8. Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil
Pros
- German Formula
- Universal cleaning solvent
- Protects the gun’s interior and exterior
- Easy to apply
- No damage on the gunstocks
- Biodegradable
Cons
- The solvent produces fumes that may burn your nose.
Features
- Multi-purpose oil
- Aerosol Can spray
- Material-friendly
- Universal gun cleaner
- Alkaline in nature
Gun manufacturers have researched for years to formulate the perfect gun cleaning solution. Ballistol is the fruit of such research; it efficiently cleans all parts of the gun without damaging any stockings.
Moreover, it is a multi-purpose solution that you can use on all objects made with natural or synthetic material. In short, Ballistol is certainly the perfect cleaning solution for your whole workshop.
For years, people have debated over BreakFree and Ballistol products. Gun enthusiasts from all over the world use either of these brands to clean and maintain their firearms.
However, Ballistol gets the upper hand with their German gun cleaning solution. The solvent is slightly alkaline that neutralizes the effect of sweat and skin oil.
Moreover, it also leaves a protective coating on the gun to keep it protected from environmental hazards. Some users even claim that the solution keeps their guns from jamming in snowy conditions.
Pro Tip
Ballistol is a universal cleaning solvent for metal, wood, and polymers. However, its alkaline nature produces a slight odor that burns the nose. So, it is best to wear gloves and a mask when cleaning your guns with them.
9. Clenzoil Field & Range Saturated Gun Oil Wipes
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Military-grade
- Great for all temperatures
- Easy to carry
- Field-friendly
- One-step cleaning solution
Cons
- The wipes may dry out if left out in the open.
Features
- Cleaning wipes
- Multi-purpose
- Up to 50 Wipes per pack
- All-in-one solution
- Easy to use
The biggest problem that guns enthusiasts face is carrying a bulky cleaning kit on the field. The kit contains all the tools needed to clean a gun on the field.
However, Clenzoil Field wipes take away all these problems by providing an ultimate field-friendly solution at an affordable price.
You don’t have to carry the cleaning kit anymore as a single wipe can take care of the whole gun. So, if you are looking for a portable solution, Clenzoil Field wipes are second to none.
The Clenzoil wipes come saturated with a cleaning solvent and lubricant solution. All you need is to disassemble the gun and directly clean it with the wipe.
Moreover, the cleaning action is so rapid that it removes rust and hardened residue in a single pass. You can even clean the barrel using a bore snake. Moreover, the solution is chemically inert, and it won’t damage the gunstocks and any other peripherals.
However, a single wipe can only be used once. So, be prepared to order new ones now and then.
Pro Tip
Clenzoil wipes can effectively rid your guns of rust, dust, and residue in a single pass. However, for best results, it is recommended to wipe the gun 2-3 times to apply the protective film.
10. UltraSonic Gun Cleaner Solution
Pros
- Concentrated solution
- Rapid cleaning action
- Suitable for all gun parts
- Dissolves oil and grease
- Compatible with all cleaning kits
Cons
- It doesn’t include lubricant.
Features
- Scientifically formulated
- Suitable for all gun parts
- Non-flammable solution
- Biodegradable
- Ultrasonic gun cleaner
As the name suggests, Ultrasonic is genuinely one of the fastest and most efficient gun cleaners in the market. It is prepared after years of research to ensure maximum output with minimum damage to your equipment.
Moreover, it goes well with almost every gun cleaning kit. So, if you already have a cleaning kit, I bet this cleaning solution will complete it.
The ultrasonic cleaning solution is an effective gun cleaner that instantly rids your weapons from rust, debris, dirt, residue, and carbon.
Moreover, its usage is not limited to the barrel only, and you can use it to clean all carbon-affected gun parts like a trigger, actions, and receivers.
The good thing about this gun cleaner is that it doesn’t damage any vital material of the guns. For example, it is a non-volatile, non-freezing fluid that doesn’t corrode aluminum and other metals.
Pro Tip
Ultrasonic is a concentrated fluid. So, mixing 1 part of the solution and 5 parts of water is recommended for best results. However, you can adjust the concentration ratio according to your needs.
How to choose a gun cleaner? Buying Guide
Certain factors determine whether a gun cleaner is suitable for your guns or not. It is best to check these specifications before finalizing your purchase to avoid wasting your time and money.
Type of fluid
All gun cleaners use a solvent in one way or another. The solvent is usually alkaline that dissolves most types of rust, dirt, residue, carbon, and oils. However, some of these chemicals also affect the gunstocks and other vital components. Therefore, it is best to check if the type of cleaning fluid is suitable for your weapons or not.
Lubrication
Generally, you need two solutions to maintain your gun. A cleaning solvent to remove rust and residue and a lubrication oil to keep the moving parts well lubricated. However, modern gun cleaners are a combination of both these liquids. So, you don’t need to spend extra time and money on polishing your firearms.
Ease of use
Gun cleaning is a complex process that requires multiple tools and gun disassembly. However, some gun cleaners make it easy to use through a spray mechanism. The aerosol can allow you to spray inside the gun without disassembling directly. Similarly, you can also purchase gun cleaning wipes to minimize the effort.
Time of action
Some gun cleaners require drying before you can use your gun. Similarly, the cleaning solvent also takes some time to dissolve and loosen any debris from the gun. In this regard, you can choose a modern gun cleaner with rapid action technology so that you can use your gun as soon as you are done cleaning.
Protective film
Another benefit of some gun cleaners is that they protect your guns and weapons in the long run. The fluid leaves behind a protective coating that protects your guns against corrosion, dust, powder residue, and oils. Moreover, the film also minimizes the friction and makes your gun smooth and comfortable to use.
FAQs
How does a gun cleaner work?
The gun cleaner is a solution that dissolves the rust and loosens any dirt and residue that accumulates inside the gun. Moreover, some gun cleaners also lubricate the gun to make its moveable parts soft and comfortable.
Do all gun cleaners leave a pungent smell?
No, some gun cleaners are odorless as they don’t include any petrochemicals or VOCs. Furthermore, the pungent smell of some gun cleaners is only temporary, and it fades in a couple of hours.
How long does it take to clean a handgun?
The time required to clean a handgun depends on your cleaning kit and skills. First-times usually take about an hour to clean a handgun. On the contrary, professionals and experienced people can clean a handgun in under 15-minutes.
Conclusion
A gun cleaner is the most important component of any gun cleaning kit. It uses scientifically formulated compounds to remove rust, dirt, powder residue, carbon, and oils from the gun.
Moreover, some gun cleaners don’t affect the gunstocks regardless of their material. Therefore, this article reviewed the top 10 best gun cleaners that you should purchase in 2022 to enjoy seamless shooting.
