Top Picks for Gun Cleaning Solvents You Can't Live Without

[Alan]

What are your favorite gun cleaning solvents? I'm looking to try something new, and I want to know what you all have found effective for different types of firearms.

 

[Spikedriver]

Can't go wrong with Hoppe's #9 for general bore cleaning! I've found Bore Tech copper solvent to work pretty well. Another thing I've used that I like is Ballistol. It's not the strongest cleaner, but it'll do the job and it's a great lube and protectant.

 

[ameshawki]

I've used most of them. Never found one that was dramatically better than another. Do not used Hoppe's on nickel plated guns. I tend to avoid the one bottle does all stuff, like CLP.

 

[Terry Nixon]

My favorite is plain old Mineral Spirits. (paint thinner-but NOT Lacquer Thinner) I put some in a small spray bottle that the expensive sfutt came in. With today's prices it also is not cheap, but it works and is cheaper than the price of all the super cleaners advertised. There is also a recipe for making "Ed's Red" but it has some solvents I'm not sure I would trust around plastic or polymer parts.

 

[Spikedriver]

I've used most of them. Never found one that was dramatically better than another. Do not used Hoppe's on nickel plated guns. I tend to avoid the one bottle does all stuff, like CLP.

I'll use CLP for general cleaning and lubricating, but I agree that CLP isn't the best thing at any one cleaning job. It just kind of does an ok job at everything...

 

[Pawngal]

I use M-Pro7. Cleaner and lube. Don't like the smell of Hoppes