Part of maintaining your gun includes regular use of high-quality gun oil. This is important and will make a huge change in the high performance and effectiveness of your firearm.
Whether you use your gun for hunting, self-protection or it is your hobby then learning how to care for your gun is vital. A malfunctioning gun can become dangerous so let’s take a look at the best gun oils to use with your weapon.
The best gun lube and gun oils are not all made equal, there are countless products on the market so I have taken the time to research the best just for you!
15 Best Gun Oils
1. Break-Free CLP-4
Features
- All in One Gun Cleaner: Cleans firing residue and other contaminants from the bore, moving parts and exterior of firearms while simultaneously reducing friction and protecting from corrosion
- Reduces metal-to-metal wear by protecting treated surfaces with an advanced boundary film
- Clean, Lubricant and Preservative: Protects metals with special rust inhibitors
- Originally developed for the Military and proven in the world’s most extreme conditions
- Performs in temperatures ranging from -65 F to +475 F, and after saltwater immersion
Break Free CLP is a synthetic blend of oils that is known for its corrosion prevention, ability to withstand extreme temperatures as well as migration abilities. Resistant to dust and sand due to antistatic properties this is a highly rated and high-performing gun oil.
Specifications
- Base oil: PAO synthetic
- Additives: petroleum distillates, dibasic esters
- Type and volume: liquid, 4 oz
This oil will penetrate and spread easily along the metal surfaces in your firearm including every crevice and pit. The long-lasting lubrication film also works to reduce any sand or grit that has abrasive tendencies.
Corrosion inhibitors are present which stops the formation of rust as well. As mentioned this is a synthetic oil blend that will never lose its viscosity, dry out or stiffen up in extreme cold or heat. Suitable for -65F to + 475F this oil even works after saltwater immersion.
Pros
- Synthetic blend for all weather conditions
- Organic and biodegradable
- Solid anti-corrosion and anti-static
- Well priced
Cons
- Some users mentioned spray would be easier to use
This gun oil was initially developed for use with fully automatic cannons in the U.S Military. Made in the USA, this unique formulation combines cleaning, lubrication, and protection all in one. Recognized as the world standard for performance and protection, Break Free CLP is the go-to product for the majority of gun users.
2. Hoppe’s No. 9
Features
- 100 percent designed and tested for the toughest situations and environments
- Provides a barrier against moisture and corrosion
- An advanced oil especially designed for the modern firearm
- Superior lubrication and protection to all areas of your firearm reducing the wear and tear caused by friction
- Provides a barrier against moisture and corrosion
Hoppe’s No. 9 is an advanced synthetic blend designed specifically for firearms. It is rigorously tested in tough situations and environments and works as a boundary lubricant.
Specifications
- Base oil: mineral
- Additives: synthetic blend
- Type and volume: liquid, 2.25 oz.
Designed for use with newer model guns that have modern alloys, this oil protects and cleans against corrosion and pitting.
It is advised not to use mineral oil-based lubricants due to the lack of migration abilities. However, Hoppe’s is a very well-established company that has tested their products, the synthetic blend more that counts for the migration properties. It has a high customer satisfaction record as well.
Pros
- Mineral oil but boosted by synthetic blend
- Blended for modern metal alloys
- Extremely positive reviews
- Moderately priced
Cons
- Concerns with the mineral oil base
Made in the USA, Hoppe’s is a well-established company that has produced a high-quality product. Suitable for modern guns, Hoppe’s No. 9 is ideal for metal alloy weapons. Stable across a wide range of temperatures it also offers protection against water damage and has anti-corrosive compounds.
3. F W Klever GmbH
Ballistol
$10.99 in stock
Features
- Country of origin: United States
- The package height of the product is 6.75 inches
- The package length of the product is 2.25 inches
- The package width of the product is 2.25 inches
- 6 ounce Aerosol Can
Ballistol Lubricant is a very popular lubricant used for a wide variety of applications – not just guns. It is biodegradable and slightly alkaline meaning it neutralizes the effect of sweat and skin oils.
Specifications
- Base oil: non-chlorinated mineral
- Additives: oleic acid, alcohol, benzyl acetate
- Type and volume: Aerosol, 1.5 oz., 6 oz.
Initially developed for the German army for cleaning gun stocks, leather gear, and firearms this aerosol is non-sticky.
This product does have a non-chlorinated mineral base which is not recommended specifically for gun lubricants due to poor migration properties. This is a top performer, however, which is largely due to the oleic acid and benzyl acetate which gives it the migration properties.
Pros
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Effective, but harmless additives
- Can be used for a wide range of lubrication needs
Cons
- More expensive than other products
- The base oil is mineral
Different from other lubricants, Ballistol Lubricant emulsifies with water, once the water evaporates the lubricant remains to protect the surface. This gun oil is a little more expensive than other products on the market and this may be due to the versatility and ability to use it for a range of applications.
4. CLP by Sage & Braker
Features
- UNBEATABLE GUN CLEANING // Other CLPs leave an oily coating, don’t clean properly and use harsh toxic chemicals, but NOT at Sage & Braker. We use a highly penetrating solvent to will infiltrate every surface on a micro level to provide a deeper and cleaner solution to carbon, lead and copper fouling. The aggressive cleaning of our Clean, Lube and Protect will remove crud from your firearms after years of neglect, all while NOT using harsh chemicals that can poison those that use it
- PROTECT YOUR FIREARMS FROM FAILURE // Feel confident that your firearms will be well protected from corrosion and rust. Even more important, our formula provides carbon and contamination management during the use of your weapon. Our formula greatly reduces static (which promotes the attachment of carbon and contaminants). You depend on your firearms and need them to work when you need them most. Don’t allow second rate CLPs to compromise the integrity of your guns.
- SMOOTH ACTION FOR RELIABLE PERFORMANCE // Our CLP coats and protects the bore and all moving parts on your firearm. It also provides working components of the firearm improved heat dissipation resulting in cooler weapon operation temperatures. Our formula enhances a complete burn of the powder in your cartridge, creating a more consistent FPS and therefore a more accurate shot.
- SAFE FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES // No harsh smelling chemicals that will not damage the blueing and finish of your well loved firearms. Non-Hazardous, biodegradable and non-toxic, so you can feel good that cleaning your firearms isn’t damaging your loved one’s health or our environment.
- MADE WITH PRIDE IN THE USA // Our CLP was designed with our military in mind. After frequent talks with deployed soldiers, we found they were having a problem when it came to keeping their firearms clean. Normal CLP’s oil can attract dust and sand. With this in mind we went to work on the most effective CLP to come to the market that significantly reduces adhesion of debris to your firearms surface.
CLP by Sage & Braker uses a penetrating solvent that gets into every surface on a microscopic level within your firearm. The blend also works to clean and protect from any dirt and crud that may be lodged inside.
Free of harsh chemicals this lubricant also protects against corrosion and rust as well as provides a carbon and contamination management aspect.
Specifications
- Base oil: bio-based, polyalphaolefin (PAO) synthetic compound
- Additives: petroleum distillates
- Type and volume: liquid spray, 4 oz.
This is a liquid spray that has a very easy nozzle to use. The CLP protects all moving parts on the firearm as well as the bore. In addition, the working components of the firearm lead to improved heat dissipation which directly relates to a cooler weapon operation temperature.
The formula also works to enhance the complete burn of powder in your cartridge which generates a consistent FPS and more accuracy.
Pros
- Non-toxic bio-based synthetic cleaner
- Anti-static properties
- Nozzle for ease of application
- Great customer reviews
Cons
- Price
CLP by Sage & Braker is free of any harsh chemicals, non-toxic, non-hazardous, and biodegradable. Manufactured in the USA, this product was designed for those in the military.
5. Hoppe’s M-Pro7
Hoppe's M-Pro 7
Features
- Leaves a film that repels dust/dirt and does not evaporará
- Excellent for long term storage
- Specifically developed for the military firearms
- Cleaner Lubricant Protectant
Another Hoppe product the M-Pro7 is a high-quality, organic, and biodegradable lubricant that also cleans. Recommended for use by the military, policy, and weapon experts this has a renowned reputation.
Specifications
- Base oil: organic, biodegradable
- Additives: unavailable
- Type and volume: liquid, 4 oz
Affordable this is a 3 in 1 gun oil that works to clean, lubricate and protect your firearm.
The formula repels dirt and grime with anti-static properties. Boasting one of the lowest friction coefficients available, this product is also designed to protect against corrosion and environmental stresses.
Pros
- Organic and biodegradable
- Cleans lubricates and protects
- Well priced
Cons
- Unknown additives
A highly rated and sought-after product the M-Pro7 is highly recommended. Suitable for other uses, not just limited to gun maintenance this is a great product. With positive customer reviews, it is hard to overlook this gun oil.
6. Lucas Oil 10006
Lucas Oil 10006
Features
- Fit type: Universal
- Package Dimensions: 11.7 H x 3.5 L x 3.5 W (centimetres)
- Package Weight: 0.067 kilograms
- Country of Origin : United States
Lucas Oil is a firearm lubricant that was developed specifically to combat overheating machine guns and high-powered rifles. Resistant to moisture and able to withstand high temperatures, this oil is a highly rated and high-quality product.
Specifications
- Base oil: organic, biodegradable
- Additives: unavailable
- Package volume: liquid, 2 oz., 6 oz.
Biodegradable and organic, if your gun is a rapid-firing weapon then this is the gun oil you want to use.
All-weather and environmentally friendly, this lubricant is suited to sport arms including pump, over/under, and side by side shotguns, bolt, and lever-action rifles and revolvers.
Odorless, this is the perfect choice for hunting firearms. It prevents jamming and overheating and penetrates rust to free stuck parts.
It also neutralizes acids from fingerprints and will not dry out after long-term storage.
Pros
- Organic, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly
- Suitable for hunting weapons
- Reputable brand
- Well priced
Cons
- Mostly for use in hunting weapons
Lucas Oil has the ability to withstand the high combustion temperatures of machine guns. An ideal hunting lubricant, it protects against moisture and is odorless. Neutralizing the acid left by fingers on your gun is easy to do with this lubricant as well.
7. Advanced Weapons Technology
Advanced Weapons Technology
Features
- MADE IN THE USA ! Base Oils & Additives for Firearms Lubrication and Protection. Extra-long lasting, Will not harden or gum up. Please take a minute to watch our video located at the left sidebar.
- Superior Compounds Endure Harsh Conditions. Penetrates and Spreads on All Metal Surfaces. Will Reduce Cleanup Time By Up To 50%
- Improves Effectiveness of Operating System.Excellent for long-term storage
- Heavier Bodied Lubricant Will Absolutely Stay Where You Put It. Ideal for firearms, fishing reels, knives and other precision mechanisms
- Ships with Child-Proof Safety Cap and Dropper Tip Installed. See Product Description Below for Needle Nose Installation.
Advanced Weapons Technology developed the Gun Oil Lubricant from superior compounds to withstand harsh conditions. With the ability to penetrate and spread across all metal surfaces, this lubricant will reduce your gun clean-up time by 50%.
Specifications
- Base oil: methacrylate polymer (acrylic)
- Additives: petroleum distillates
- Type and volume: liquid, 0.5 oz., 1.69 oz., 3.38 oz.
The first acrylic-based lubricant which to me sounds like it won’t migrate within the gun. This is product does, however, have excellent cleaning solvents which will reduce your gun cleaning time.
For use with not only guns but also fishing reels, knives, and any other precision mechanisms. This is a heavier-bodied lubricant.
With the ability to withstand both high temperatures and high pressure this lubricant also has protective ingredients to prevent rust and corrosion.
Suitable for use with handguns to miniguns and everything in between. Special additives help with the cleaning by stopping contaminants from sticking to the surface.
Pros
- Doesn’t gum up when not in use
- Powerful cleaning solvents
- Affordable
Cons
- Acrylic-based may not be ideal for migration purposes
Gun Oil Lubricant is an affordable option that can withstand a huge range of temperatures and pressure. The only concern with this product is that it is heavier bodied and acrylic is the base oil which may mean difficulties with migration to all components of your firearm.
8. STA-BIL
STA-BIL Gun CLP
$13.97 in stock
Features
- CLP – STA-BIL Gun CLP cleans, lubricates, and protects your firearm safely and effectively. This product provides superior lubrication, and it contains an anti-wear additive that protects your gun from corrosion and wear prior to storage
- PREVENTS JAMMING – When used properly, this gun lubricant will prevent your rifle, handgun, pistol, and shotgun from jamming up on you. A small amount does the trick, so make sure to be tactical
- VERSATILE – This 3-in-1, biodegradable product can be used on various types of firearms, and it works instantly. Other than cleaning and lubricating, this product displaces water and provides protection against rust
- DIRECTIONS – Before using product, make sure weapon is unloaded. Twist top of bottle to open. Dispense a small drop of STA-BIL Gun CLP onto manufacturer recommended locations of the gun, for superior lubrication. This can also be used to clean and protect components of the gun from corrosion and wear
- All STA-BIL branded products are good for use up to 2 years after the bottle was opened. Be sure to mark the date you opened the bottle on the back of your package!
STA-BIL is a conditioning oil that is non-hazardous, non-toxic, and will protect your weapon. A powerful cleaner, this product offers long-lasting protection against corrosion.
Specifications
- Base oil: organic, biodegradable
- Additives: unavailable
- Package volume: liquid, 2×2 oz.
A multipurpose oil is designed to clean and reduce carbon fouling. With a specially designed formula this conditions metal which makes routine cleaning much easier.
Stable with extreme heat and extreme cold this product is also biodegradable and non-toxic.
My concern with this product is whether it is a solid option for lubrication or if it is more so a cleaning solvent.
Pros
- Organic, biodegradable
- Anti-fouling
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Price
The STA-BIL comes with excellent customer reviews. Being non-toxic, many customers are pleased with the quality of the product as well as the ease of cleaning when the time comes.
9. Hoppe’s HSO
Hoppe's HSO
$7.89 in stock
1 used from $10.77
Features
- CLP formula cleans, lubricates and protects in one step
- 2 oz. squeeze bottle
- Includes rust prohibitors and a pinpoint applicator
Hoppe’s HSO uses a T3 formulation which ensures proper upkeep and gun maintenance. Developed from dental drill oil a thin coat technology is used which gives long-lasting corrosive protection.
Specifications
- Base oil: mineral
- Additives: petroleum distillates, T3
- Type and volume: liquid, 2 oz.
The friction coefficient is the best in the business due to the PTFE additive as well as liquid molybdenum. Great for use in the field there is also a spout tip which makes it easy to apply.
The knowledge that this oil is also used for precision dental tools shows just how high quality it is. This is hydrodynamic lubrication which means it will migrate exceptionally well but may be very thin in areas.
Pros
- Renowned company
- Excellent friction coefficient
- Excellent for gun maintenance purposes
Cons
- Price
Hoppe’s HSO is a high-quality product that has additives including liquid molybdenum and PTFE. Gun maintenance and cleaning of your firearm are easy to do with the use of this oil.
10. DuPont Teflon Non-Stick
Features
- Dry-film technology leaves a 100% dry-to-the-touch, micro-thin coating of Ceramic Boron Nitride that repels dirt, dust, and other contaminants
- Ceramic Boron Nitride coating stops sticks and squeaks in tough environments among water and salt air, and in temperatures ranging from -100°F (-73°C) to +500°F (260°C)
- Excels in applications ranging from home use to outdoor power equipment, cycling, sailing, fishing, firearms, and more
- Contains no silicones, petroleum additives, or oil additives, and is safe for use on all surfaces and with O-rings
- Perfect for: sliding surfaces, threads tracks, shafts, gears, cables bearings and precision equipment; NOT FOR USE ON NON-STICK COOKWARE
DuPont Teflon is a non-stick dry film lubricant that is long-lasting and creates a micro-thin-resistant coating. Teflon is known for its non-stick purposes and tolerance of metal on metal wear.
Specifications
- Base: dry Teflon
- Additives: heptane (octane boosting fuel additive), propane, butane
- Type and volume: powder, 4 oz.
This is a unique product as it is 100% dry, it is free from silicone making it safe for all surfaces.
Although no solid testing or analysis has been completed on Teflon for use in gun lubricants this would be particularly useful for rust and corrosion prevention.
Pros
- Corrosion and rust-resistant properties
- Resists temperature and evaporative breakdown
Cons
- A new technology that hasn’t been rigorously tested
DuPont Teflon is an interesting new addition to gun oils but is yet to be analyzed deeply to determine its effectiveness. A great concept, the anti-rust, and anti-corrosive properties are attractive.
11. Hoppe’s No. 9
Hoppe's No. 9
$7.45 in stock
Features
- Country Of Origin : United States
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 1 Inches
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 1 Inches
- The Package Width Of The Product Is 1 Inches
- High viscosity oil refined to perfection
Hoppe’s No. 9 is the original, all-natural version of Hoppe’s synthetic oil we already looked at.
Key Features
- Base: refined natural oil
- Additives: unavailable
- Type and volume: 14.9 ml liquid with a precision applicator
Hoppe’s No. 9 is a high viscosity oil that comes in a small, 14.9 ml precision applicator bottle. With this setup, it’s not an ideal choice for lubing up your entire gun, since that would take some time and be expensive.
This oil is designed for oiling your gun’s mechanical components. Trigger assemblies, hammer springs, and other hard-to-reach parts are easy to grease up with the needle applicator on this bottle. You can also use Hoppe’s No. 9 for lubing other devices. It’s particularly popular for maintaining fishing reels, which need to handle a lot of the same abuse as small firearm parts.
Pros
- High viscosity
- Easy to apply
- Also useful for other precision devices
Cons
- Very small bottle
This gun oil is ideal for precision applications like trigger assemblies.
12. Birchwood Casey
Birchwood Casey
Features
- SUPERIOR GUN OIL - The Synthetic Gun Oil is ideal for maintaining the efficiency of your gun parts; This superior Lubricating Oil will not gum up or lose its viscosity even under extreme temperature variations from -55 degrees to 300 degrees Fahrenheit
- ADVANCED LUBRICATION - Use the Birchwood Casey Gun Oil for excellent lubrication and protection of gun parts; Effective and easy to use, this Gun Lubricant reduces friction between mating surfaces, improving performance and extending the life of your gun
- CLEANING & PROTECTION - The Gun Cleaning Oil will provide long-term protection of metal gun surfaces, giving them maximum lubricity; Its natural solvency reliably cleans as it oils while its low evaporation rate assures protection against rust
- EASE OF APPLICATION - This Birchwood Casey Synthetic Gun Oil comes in a handy 4.5-ounce Spout Can; Such a compact and practical package is ideal for simple lubrication, quick cleaning, and protecting the moving parts of the gun without any damage
- BIRCHWOOD CASEY GUN OILS - Lubricate gun parts between uses and seasons with Birchwood Casey Gun Oils to prolong the high performance of your gun; Regular maintenance with Gun Lubricants will help keep your gun performing like new
Birchwood Casey Synthetic Gun Oil is a true CLP oil that cleans, lubricates, and protects.
Key Features
- Base: synthetic petroleum blend
- Additives: petroleum distillates
- Type and volume: liquid, 4.5-ounce
Birchwood Casey Synthetic Gun Oil is a 100 percent synthetic petroleum blend, with petroleum distillates added. The result is straightforward: the distillates scour away corrosion and carbon fouling. Then, the distillates evaporate, leaving you with a slick oil coating and a storage-ready gun.
Because it relies on evaporating distillates to clean your gun, Birchwood Casey oil produces powerful fumes while you’re using it. You’ll be fine in a large basement or a garage, but we wouldn’t recommend using this oil in a small room with poor ventilation.
Pros
- Cleans lubricates and protects
- Single-step cleaning
- Good value
Cons
- Powerful fumes
This gun oil will get you fully cleaned and protected in just a few minutes.
13. Breakthrough Clean Technologies
BREAKTHROUGH CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES
$18.65 in stock
Features
- Has the most extreme pressure, corrosion inhibitors, rust preventative, anti-foam and anti-wear additives to protect your firearm
- Non-toxic, Non-hazardous and non-staining, giving you the freedom to lubricate and protect your gun, knife, bow and fishing reel anywhere
- Nearly odorless formula perfect for hunting
Breakthrough Clean Technologies is an all-natural gun oil with no additives whatsoever.
Key Features
- Base: synthetic oil blend
- Additives: none
- Type and volume: liquid, 12 ml, 4-ounce, 6-ounce, 1 gallon
Breakthrough Clean Technologies Battle Born High Purity Oil is designed to be as pure and safe as possible. The proprietary blend of synthetic oils is crystal clear and won’t stain your clothes or carpet in the event of a spill. It’s also non-toxic and non-flammable, so you can work with it indoors in total safety.
This oil is also biodegradable, which makes it much more environmentally friendly than most petroleum-based blends. The only downside is that it’s very thin. As a result, you may need to re-oil the barrel if you fire several hundred rounds in a single range session.
Pros
- Non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-staining
- 100% pure oil
- Biodegradable
Cons
- Relatively short-lasting
If environmental safety is important to you, this gun oil is a great choice.
14. Remington Oil & Action Cleaner
Remmington Oil & Action Cleaner
Features
- Cleans out dirt and grime
- Protects metal from rust and corrosion
- Made with Teflon
Remington Oil & Action Cleaner comes in an aerosol can, so you can apply it in mere seconds.
Key Features
- Base: synthetic oil
- Additives: Teflon
- Type and volume: aerosol, 10-ounce
Remington Oil & Action Cleaner is a two-pack of aerosol cans that serve two different functions. The first can contains 10 ounces of Remington’s spray degreaser, which will quickly, effortlessly spray away grease and fouling build-up. Blast some through the chamber and the barrel, run a bore snake through, and you’re all clean.
The gun oil itself contains Teflon, which makes it a great choice for lubricating mechanical parts like the hammer and trigger assembly. However, it’s relatively short-lasting when exposed to the extreme heat and friction it will experience inside the barrel.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Includes a can of spray degreaser
- Complete clean/lubricate/protect package
Cons
- Thin-oil
The Remington is great for degreasing and for lubricating mechanical parts.
15. Lucas Extreme
Lucas Extreme
1 used from $11.46
Features
- Developed for demanding lubrication during hard use
- Extreme working temperature range of -38°F to 400°F
- Great for ultra-sonic cleaner use for small or bulk parts lubrication
Lucas Extreme is formulated to remain slick under even the most intense firing conditions.
Key Features
- Base: proprietary synthetic oil
- Additives: proprietary heat-resistant thickener and polymeric film
- Type and volume: liquid, 1-ounce precision applicator (2-pack)
Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil is a tacky red grease that comes in a 2-pack of tiny precision applicators. At first glance, it seems expensive for what you’re getting, but it’s one of the most powerful, long-lasting lubricants on the market.
This oil contains a proprietary thickener that resists temperatures up to 400 degrees. As a result, it’s a great choice for fully automatic firearms, or for semi-autos that are being fired rapidly. Not to mention, the needle applicator makes it easy to put a tiny dab exactly where you need it.
Pros
- Ideal for rapid-fire applications
- Easy to apply
- Effective up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Expensive
If you regularly practice rapid-firing your gun, this oil will meet your demands.
How to Choose The Best Oil?
Gun lubricants come in a few different forms – liquids and solids and even in some rare cases gasses. Generally, they are a mixture of both liquids and solids, the liquid being the ‘base stock’ with the solids being the ‘additives’.
Combining ingredients for the best gun oil requires science and engineering to ensure the end product is optimal.
Firearms are generally used heavily for short periods of time but spend the majority of their lifespan inactive. There are many different lubricants but guns, they operate under two types of lubrication regimes which are boundary lubrication and hydrodynamic lubrication.
Difference between Hydrodynamic and Boundary Lubrication
To understand the best product to use for your firearm let’s cover the key difference in these types of lubrication.
Hydrodynamic Lubrication
A thick layer of the film lays between any moving parts. The film acts to stop any friction between the moving components which reduces any wear.
Hydrodynamic lubrication extends the lifespan of moving parts, the most common application is with car motors.
Boundary Lubrication
This type of lubrication works to resist corrosion and oxidization by creating a boundary. This boundary lays between the metal surfaces and the active components.
Specialized coatings such as titanium nitride or nickel boron can be used in the thin film to reduce friction as can Teflon and molybdenum. Depending on where you plan to use your firearm the best base will differ.
Lubricant Migration
To protect your firearm the lubrication needs to be able to move around to adjacent areas within the weapon. When applying it you want a gun oil that has a low enough viscosity to flow into smaller spaces and lubricate every part in the process.
Additives
Additives to lubricants change the chemical composition and the effect of the lube on the gun. There are many different additives that are related to different functions of the gun. One of the most frequent additives to gun oil is AW/EP which means Anti Wear and Extreme Pressure.
Anti Wear (AW) and Extreme Pressure (EP)
A high-quality gun oil will generally have these additives in them, they are tiny solids that thicken the oil. Many different combinations are used or tailored to suit the needs of the user.
The most commonly added compounds are as follows:
- antimony dialkyl dithiocarbamate
- sulfur compounds
- boron
- zinc
- phosphors
- polytetrafluoroethylene
- zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate
- tackifiers
- detergents
- pour point depressant
What Should be Avoided?
Knowing what to avoid in a lubricant is also important to understand.
- Chlorine compounds or chlorinated esters – can lead to stress corrosion cracking (SCC). This means microscopic pits and cracks develop under heat and pressure which will eventually lead to a malfunctioning gun.
- Benzene compounds – Commonly used in motor oils these are not good for human skin so use on a firearm is not advised.
- Mineral oils – Poor migration properties meaning parts of your gun won’t be well lubricated.
- Silicones – Although good for water protection they add to the wear of your gun working parts.
- Graphite sprays – These are of no benefit to a gun.
Do you Really Need Gun Oil?
Yes. Wear and tear on guns are significantly reduced when using the right gun lubricant. The barrier created between these moving parts will have it running effectively and efficiently.
Although not visible to the human eye, there are plenty of tiny cracks and depressions within your firearm. The use of gun oil lubricates the internal workings of the weapon and makes for safe and effective use.
Gun oils have additional ingredients including anti-rust agents, extreme pressure, as well as anti-wear agents. In some instances, detergents are also added to the lubricant which also works to break down grime and debris within the gun.
Although this should not replace a gun cleaning kit and thorough maintenance, gun oil can help to maintain your weapon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Oil
Q. Does Gun Oil Fix Wear and Tear
No. If your gun is already significantly worn from extended use without lubrication then even the best gun oils or gun lube won’t be able to fix the problem. Regular maintenance and regular use of a lubricant will prevent wear and tear from occurring.
Q. How do I Apply Gun Oil?
Learning how to maintain your gun includes taking it apart to thoroughly clean and lubricate it. There are problems associated with both over lubricating and under lubricating your weapon. Ensuring that you use the correct amount is very important. Read through guides or follow YouTube if you have never done it before. Like everything, the more often you do it the better you will become.
Q. What about these Miracle Gun Oils?
Be wary of any products claiming to be a miracle gun oil, there is no such thing. All lubricants fall into the same categories, the difference is in the additives which should only be selected depending on your needs. Don’t buy into the gimmick products, gun oil has always been around and it always will be. The products reviewed in this post are all high quality and worthwhile trying.
Q. Do I Need Different Gun Oils for Different Weather Conditions?
Yes. Most gun oils are made specifically for use in extreme weather conditions including both cold weather and hot weather. They are blends of different products that work within a set range of temperatures. If you live in a cold climate then be sure to check the product is suitable for low temperatures.
Bottom Line
Taking care of your firearm includes using the best gun oil and gun lube possible. This will significantly reduce wear and tear created by friction within the weapon. Lubricants play a very important role, so find the best one for your needs and learn how to use them properly.
Understanding how gun oil works as well as the different additives used helps to make an informed decision. Through this easy-to-follow guide you will now have all the necessary information to make the best choice for your needs. A properly cleaned and well oil firearm will perform well every time, regardless of how long it has been inactive.
Check out the other safety and maintenance articles put together by the expert team here at Guns & Safety Reviews;
The Review
Best Gun Oil
Choosing the best gun oil doesn't need to be difficult. There are many different models on the market so I have shared detailed reviews of the best products available. Be sure to read thoroughly before making your decision.
Review Breakdown
- Break-Free CLP-4
- Hoppe's No. 9
- Ballistol
- CLP by Sage & Braker
- Hoppe's M-Pro 7
- Lucas Oil 10006
- Advanced Weapons Technology
- STA-BIL Gun CLP
- Hoppe's HSO
- DuPont Teflon Non-Stick
- Hoppe's No. 9
- Birchwood Casey
- Breakthrough Clean Technologies
- Remington Oil & Action
- Lucas Extreme Duty
Best Gun Oil DEALS
We collect information from many stores for best price available
