Top 11 Gun Cleaning Solvents of June 2023: Flawless Firearms

Don’t miss out on the must-have solvents for a flawless firearm! This comprehensive list of the top gun cleaning solvents of April 2023 has got you covered.

From powerful degreasers to eco-friendly options, I’ve rounded up the best solvents to make sure your firearm stays clean and ready for action. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or just starting out, ourthis list has something for everyone.

Here Are My Recommended 11 Best Gun Cleaning Solvent Reviews

Here is a quick roundup of some of the finest gun-cleaning solvents that I have used in the past and had good results with.

1. Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaning Solvent

This is just one of the many No. 9 gun care products that Hoppe’s is known for. And like all the rest, this one holds a special place in the hearts of many gunsmiths and enthusiasts. It can remove any type of powder, lead, and carbon build-up in the bore of your firearm.

Sometimes, abrasive materials can build up inside the gun, which can cause misfires when you use it. This is the best product to break those materials loose quickly and efficiently. It works fast and can penetrate deep within your firearm for effective cleaning.

A handy by-product of the cleaner is that it also applies a rust-proof coat on your firearm for a certain time. Its tried-and-true formula is safe and easy to use. Though I listed the bottle design in this review, you can also find it in aerosol format. So go with whichever mode of application sits best with you.

Pros

• Quick-acting formula
• Works against all types of build-ups
• Available in different applicator designs
• Also removes and protects against rust.

Cons

• The smell might not be the best thing for hunters.

2. BreakFree CLP-4 Cleaner Lubricant Preservative Squeeze Bottle

For my next pick, I decided to go with another old-school cleaner that works just as well by modern standards to keep your firearms clean and rust-free. 

The BreakFree CLP-4 is based on the original formula introduced in 1975 and is an extremely popular choice when it comes to cleaning solvents for guns.

The proprietary formula used in this cleaner helps break loose powder, oil, grime, or grease that may build up around or inside your firearm over continuous use. It also actively reduces friction and general wear and tear after application extending the lifespan of your firearm.

This formula leaves a protective coating on your firearm that prevents the build-up of rust and corrosion in addition to preventing carbon accumulation. Like Hoppe’s No. 9, this cleaner is available in various modes of application. But I decided to go with the squeeze bottle as that feels extremely comfortable for me.

Pros

• Helps extend the lifespan of your firearm
• Can resist saltwater
• Amazing cleaning and protective performance
• Comes at an affordable price

Cons

• Nothing worth complaining about

3. Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil

Removing black powder and corrosive ammo residue is one of the many strengths of this cleaning solution. While most cleaning solvents are only applicable to the metal parts of the gun, this multi-purpose formula can be used in just about any part of your firearm. You won’t have to worry about ruining your firearm cleaning mat.

This means the wood on the gun stock or the leather on the gun slings will also get some much-needed cleaning with this formula. The multi-purpose design of this solution saves both your time and money. 

On top of that, since it is bio-degradable, it will not leave any harmful footprint on the environment.

While I went with the aerosol design, this cleaning solvent is available in bottles or jugs, too. So, you can go with whichever medium feels best for you. This aerosol can give you around 6 ounces of solvent to work with, which should last you quite a while even if you use it frequently.

Pros

• Amazing value for the price
• Available in multiple modes of application
• Non-toxic, bio-degradable formula
• It can be used in both metal and non-metal parts of the gun

Cons

• No apparent cons

4. CLP by Sage & Braker

Now, non-toxic is the key thing to remember here. Yes, there are many CLP formula out there that works just as well as this one. However, most, if not all of them, use some form of toxic materials here and there, which means you cannot use them without proper ventilation.

This product comes with a bio-based, non-hazardous formula that works wonders for cleaning your firearms. So even if you are working in a locked room, it should not pose any serious health risks for you. It can safely eliminate any copper, lead, or powder residue in your gun, making it as good as new.

In addition to simply cleaning your firearm, it also improves the heat dissipation capacity of the gun, so it will remain cooler after firing. On top of that, the anti-static nature of the formula prevents static charge build-up and actively protects your gun against carbon build-ups as you fire it.

So, to put things simply, not only will it clean your gun efficiently, but it will also ensure that your weapon needs less cleaning next time. You get around 4 ounces of cleaning solvent with your purchase. So, if you are looking for the best non-toxic gun cleaning solvent on the market, this is your best bet.

Pros

• Non-toxic, bio-based formula
• The formula has anti-static properties
• Gives you four ounces of fluid
• Efficient cleaning performance

Cons

• A bit on the pricey side

5. Hoppe’s M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner

This is a fantastic cleaner that does exactly what it sets out to do, which is cleaning your firearm. It can break down carbon fouling in your firearm, allowing you to wipe it away with a soft cloth quickly and easily. Any foreign material that builds up on the metal parts of your firearm can be cleaned off with this solvent.

As a bonus, the formula leaves behind a rust-resistant coating on the weapon that offers some level of protection against corrosive build-up. And it also does not feel oily or gummy as it does with other CLP products. However, its protective coating also does not last too long.

You get around 8 ounces of fluid with your purchase which should get you through quite a fair bit of cleaning projects. Just make sure you don’t use it with oil-based stocks, as the formula can strip it down.

Pros

• Amazing cleaning performance
• Gives you a large quantity to work with
• Can remove even the toughest grimes
• Bio-degradable, non-toxic formula

Cons

• Does not lubricate or preserve

6. Slip 2000 EWL 4oz

The thing that makes this cleaning solvent so special is its ability to work in extremely hot or cold climates. While other solvents that are not as tolerant may freeze or evaporate, this one will continue to work well and keep your firearms lubricated and clean whenever you want.

As for its cleaning capabilities, I don’t have much to say except that it’s superb. It works well for cleaning tough gunk and powder strain from the bore and the barrel relatively fast. In fact, the manufacturers claim that it works at least 50 percent faster than its competitors, which is not that bold of a claim once you try it out for yourself.

The formula, as you might have expected, is non-toxic and bio-degradable. This means using it behind closed doors with poor ventilation will not harm you in any way. Once applied, it also actively protects your weapon against rust or corrosion. To reduce overall friction and weapon wear, this is a great cleaning solvent to go with.

Pros

• Lubricates a lot longer than traditional solvents
• Affordable price tag
• Quick cleaning capability
• Comes in a precision-tip bottle

Cons

• Nothing worth nitpicking

7. Lucas Oil 10006 Gun Oil Multi-Colored

Lucas Oil 10006 Multi-Colored Gun Oil is the favored brand of many gunsmiths because of how well it works at removing grimes from unused firearms.

The first thing that came to my tried it out was that this one is designed for hunters. As you might know, many gun oils leave a nice smell on your firearm, which is not always a bad thing. However, when hunting, the smell from your weapon can tip off the game animals, and they can run off. Because of its odorless formula, this is not a problem here.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Its formula is extremely potent and is capable of eliminating any dirt or powder residue from your weapon. If you have to clean a lot of weapons at once, time is always of the essence. With this product, you will be able to blaze through each weapon while making sure they are perfectly spotless.

The formula is also environmentally friendly and contains no toxic chemicals. Its only downside is that it costs a bit more compared to other options in the market, especially when you consider that you are only getting 2 ounces of fluid with your purchase. But for a hunter, this is a small price to pay for a completely odorless gun cleaner.

Pros

• Leaves no fragrance on your weapon
• Non-toxic, eco-friendly formula
• Can eliminate tough stains
• Leaves a protective coating

Cons

• Not very affordable

8. Hoppe’s M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner

If you’re looking for a reliable gun cleaner that’s easy to use and delivers effective results, the Hoppe’s M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner is definitely worth considering.

One of the standout features of this cleaner is how easy it is to apply. Simply spray it on your firearm and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. The formula is non-toxic and biodegradable, which means you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or harming the environment.

Another advantage of this cleaner is its pleasant scent. Unlike some gun cleaners that have a strong, unpleasant odor, the Hoppe’s M-Pro 7 Gun Cleaner has a fresh, clean scent that won’t leave you feeling overwhelmed or lightheaded.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Effective cleaning power
• Safe for use on a variety of surfaces
• Pleasant scent

Cons:

• May not be as effective on a heavy buildup
• Can be expensive

9. Sage & Braker CLP Gun Cleaning Solvent

What I liked most about this product was how easy it was to use. The instructions were clear and straightforward, and the solvent itself was easy to apply. It also had a pleasant smell, which is a nice bonus compared to other harsh chemical solvents I’ve used in the past.

When I used the Sage & Braker CLP on my firearms, I noticed that it was able to clean off dirt, grime, and other debris without leaving any residue. My guns looked brand new after using this solvent, and I was confident that they were properly cleaned and maintained.

Pros:

• Easy to use with clear and straightforward instructions
• Pleasant smell compared to other harsh chemical solvents
• Effectively removes dirt, grime, and other debris without leaving residue
• Safe to use on guns without causing damage
• Improves the appearance of firearms by leaving them looking clean and well-maintained

Cons:

• May not work as effectively on heavily soiled or rusted firearms
• Some users may prefer a stronger solvent for tougher cleaning jobs

10. Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner Spray Bottle

Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner Spray Bottle is a high-quality cleaning solution designed to remove dirt, carbon, and other fouling agents from your firearms. This product comes in a spray bottle, making it easy to apply and use.

One of the standout features of this gun cleaner is its ability to break down and remove even the toughest carbon buildup from your firearms. This is particularly useful if you shoot frequently or use firearms that are prone to carbon fouling.

In addition to its cleaning power, Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner Spray Bottle is also very easy to use. The spray bottle design allows you to quickly and easily apply the cleaner to all areas of your firearm, and the solution itself has a good flow and viscosity that allows it to penetrate even hard-to-reach areas.

Pros:

• Effective at removing dirt, carbon, and other fouling agents from firearms
• Can break down and remove tough carbon buildup
• Easy to use with its spray bottle design
• Good flow and viscosity allows it to penetrate hard-to-reach areas
• Suitable for both casual and professional shooters

Cons:

• May have a strong odor that some users find unpleasant
• May require several applications to completely remove heavy buildup

11. Otis Technology Bio-CLP Gun Lubricant

One of the things I love about this lubricant is that it’s eco-friendly. I mean, who doesn’t want to do their part to help the environment, right? Plus, it’s odorless, which is a nice change from some of the other gun lubricants I’ve used that can have a strong, unpleasant smell.

Applying the Bio-CLP to my guns was a breeze. It’s got a great consistency that makes it easy to apply evenly without making a mess. And after using it for a while, I’ve noticed that it really does a fantastic job of preventing rust and other types of corrosion. That’s huge for me since I want my firearms to last as long as possible.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly
• Effective cleaning and lubrication
• Easy to apply
• Odorless

Cons:

• Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find the Bio-CLP in local stores, meaning you may have to order it online.

FAQs

1. What gun cleaner solvent does the military use?

The military typically uses CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, and Preservative) as their preferred gun-cleaning solvent. However, there are various other options available on the market as well, depending on the type of firearm and the cleaning requirements.

2. What’s the best thing to clean your gun with?

When it comes to cleaning your gun, the best thing to use is a specialized gun cleaning kit, which typically includes brushes, patches, solvents, oils, and other necessary tools. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for proper cleaning.

3. What is the best oil to clean a gun with?

The best oil to clean a gun with depends on the type of firearm, as well as personal preference. Some common options include synthetic motor oil, mineral oil, and gun-specific oils, such as Hoppe’s or Break-Free CLP.

4. Is Vaseline good for guns?

Vaseline is not a recommended option for cleaning guns, as it can cause build-up and potentially damage the firearm’s internal components. Stick to using specialized gun cleaning products for the best results.

5. Can you use oil to clean a gun?

Yes, you can use oil to clean a gun, but it’s important to use a gun-specific oil or a high-quality lubricating oil to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance.

6. How many rounds should you clean your gun?

The frequency of cleaning your gun depends on how often you use it, the type of ammunition you use, and the environment in which it’s used. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to clean your gun after every use or at least once a month if it’s not used frequently.

7. Is degreaser good for cleaning guns?

Degreasers can be effective for cleaning guns, but it’s important to use a gun-specific degreaser or a gentle, non-toxic option to avoid damaging the firearm’s finish or internal components.

8. Can you use vinegar to clean a gun?

To ensure the proper maintenance and cleaning of firearms, it is advisable to avoid using vinegar or baking soda, as they may cause damage to the metal components or finish of the gun. Instead, opt for specialized gun-cleaning solvents and oils for optimal results. 

9. Can you use rubbing alcohol to clean the spray gun?

While rubbing alcohol can be effective for cleaning spray guns, it’s crucial to use it safely by wearing protective gear and working in a well-ventilated area to avoid any potential hazards.

10. Can you clean a gun with baking soda?

It is generally not advisable to use baking soda for cleaning guns since it has abrasive properties that can cause scratches or damage to the firearm’s finish. The best approach is to use specialized gun cleaning products that are designed to clean and maintain firearms effectively without causing any harm.

The Bottom Line

Well, I hope that information was helpful! Remember, when it comes to cleaning your firearms, using the right solvent is key to keeping them in top condition.

With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews from other gun owners to find the best gun-cleaning solvent that works for you. Happy cleaning!