8 Best Gun Oil [2024]: Cleaners, Lubricants, and More

If you want your guns to perform well and last long, you need good gun oil. It is what keeps your gun working smoothly, preventing friction between its moving parts. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Some are pricey and others are not worth it due to gimmicks.

That’s why, I put together this best gun oil guide to help you understand what gun oil does, the types available, and which one suits your needs best. Let’s get into it.

How I Chose the Best Gun Oils

As a special operations sniper, I’ve extensively used many firearms and encountered common issues like failures to fire, feed, and eject. To fix these, I rely on gun oils. With years of experience, I’ve learned how to revive struggling firearms with a well-timed oil application. Now, I want to share my knowledge to help others find the best gun oils.

In this list, I’ve chosen oils based on factors like performance, usability, application, and value. I’ve also gathered inputs from my shooting buddies for a diverse selection. I know choosing a gun oil is personal, so I’ve categorized them based on their best uses to cater to everyone’s needs. Additionally, I’ve included a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed choice.

Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly understand the different types of gun oils to help you choose the right one for your needs.

Different Types of Gun Oil

Gun oils come in three main types: lubrication oils, cleaning and preserving oils, and greases.

1. Lubrication oils are designed to withstand high pressure and heat, ensuring smooth firearm operation.
2. Cleaning and preserving oils not only lubricate but also protect firearms from dirt, grime, and corrosion.
3. Greases, although not technically oils, are ideal for heavy-use firearms and situations where lubrication needs to remain in place, such as in high-heat environments.

If you like to learn more on the topic, then you should check out my full guide on why you need gun oil and what type you need.

The Best Gun Oils for Each Type

Because there are three types, we figured it would be best to rank them based on their type and focus.

• Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function (All-in-One)
• Best Oils for Cleaning/Preserving Firearms
• Best Gun Greases

Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function

Best Overall Gunfighter Oil		100% synthetic Non toxic Protects from corrosion	Buy on Amazon
Editors Pick Militec-1 Gun Oil		Premium gun oil For heavy use guns Conditions metal	Buy on Amazon
Best Budget Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil		Low price Large quantity	Buy on Amazon
Best for all firearms Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil		High volume shooting High viscosity Applicator bottle	Buy on Amazon

Best Gun Oils for Cleaning/Preserving Firearms

Best for bore cleaning Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner		Just for cleaning Long history of use	Buy on Amazon
Best all-purpose Break Free CLP		Mil Spec Multi-purpose usage Low cost	Buy on Amazon
best for indoor and outdoor use Gunzilla CLP		Non-toxic plant based Low or no odor	Buy on Amazon

Best Gun Grease

Best heavy duty Lucas Extreme Duty Grease

High wear resistance Stays where you put it

Buy on Amazon

Specs Comparison Table of Best Gun Oils

Reviews of the Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function

When you’re looking to improve your gun’s performance, sometimes all you need is a reliable lubricant. Let’s take a look at the gun oil options for lubrication and function in our list.

Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function

1. Gunfighter Oil
2. Militec-1 Gun Oil
3. Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil
4. Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil

Gunfighter Oil Review

Gunfighter Oil has always been my go-to. Its dual function as a cleaner and lubricant simplifies maintenance. Just a quick application on a cloth removes dirt and ensures smooth gun operation. Plus, its needle oiler bottle makes application hassle-free.

I’ve used Gunfighter oil on all my guns, and it’s excellent. Being 100% synthetic, it doesn’t break down, even with prolonged storage. Its slick consistency makes it easy to apply without becoming messy. It also doesn’t dry quickly, preventing residue buildup for optimal gun function.

Gunfighter Oil’s non-biodegradable nature ensures consistent performance in extreme temperatures, providing comprehensive protection for tactical, hunting, and competition guns.

Affordable and well-made, it’s my best overall choice for a gun oil and my top recommendation for anyone looking to keep their firearms clean and protected without breaking the bank. There truly isn’t a downside to this exceptional product.

To see my full review on this oil, be sure to check out our Gunfighter Oil Review.

Gunfighter Oil Pros and Cons

Militec-1 Gun Oil Review

In late 2001 in Afghanistan, I carried a Knight’s Armament SR-25, which I disliked because it was inaccurate and unreliable.

When I shared these issues with an armorer from an unnamed group, who suggested using Okay Industries magazines (listed in our Best AR-15 Magazines) and Militec-1 gun oil. It worked like magic, and I became a major fan of Militec-1, using it on all my firearms ever since.

Militec-1 is a synthetic oil with additives that keep gun parts moving smoothly. It’s great for preventing rust, corrosion, and wear, and it even helps improve muzzle velocity and prevents jams. Personally, I’ve found that just a few drops of Militec-1 make a noticeable difference in how smoothly my AR-15 operates.

I also rely on Militec-1 for my heavy-duty firearms and when I’m facing extreme weather conditions. Its low evaporation rate means it keeps working even in high heat, protecting guns from moisture in rainy or marine environments.

My only issue with this one, and why it isn’t #1, is because I find it a bit expensive and not noticeably different from Gunfighter.

You can see my full breakdown in our full review of the Militec-1 Gun Oil!

Militec-1 Pros and Cons

Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil Review

I almost ranked Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil as the top choice for gun lubrication, especially for firearms like AR-15s. However, Militec-1 edged it out slightly due to its exceptional performance.

Still, Mobil 1 is a fantastic gun oil that keeps all my firearms running smoothly and protects them from wear. While it may not offer the premium metal conditioning of Militec-1, Mobil 1 is hands-down one of the best gun oils I’ve used.

Also, It’s hard to argue against the effectiveness and affordability of a quart of Mobil 1 compared to other oils.

But remember, Mobil 1 isn’t for cleaning or preserving guns because it lacks a protective film. It can also have a motor oil smell and seep into wood stocks. It’s not ideal for long-term storage or extreme weather.

If you want the best budget gun oil that gets the job done, choose Mobil 1 Synthetic. It’s effective, affordable, and leaves you with extra cash for ammo.

You can see my complete breakdown in our full review of the Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil.

Mobil 1 Pros and Cons

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil Review

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil is my top pick for all firearms because it excels in lubrication and preservation while being environmentally friendly. I’ve found it to be highly effective for firearms subjected to high volumes of shooting, including semi-automatic rifles, shotguns, pistols, and full-auto firearms, as well as suppressors.

This premium oil forms a protective polymeric film on metal surfaces, safeguarding against heat, moisture, wear, and rust, even during extended storage periods. What I particularly appreciate is the needle oiler bottle, which makes application easy and convenient.

However, this gun oil ranks lower because it’s pricier than it needs to be and has a limited temperature range. Although it works well in harsh conditions, there’s no strong reason to pick it over the others listed earlier.

You can see my complete breakdown in our review of Lucas Extreme Gun Oil!

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil Pros and Cons

Reviews of the Best Oils for Cleaning and Preserving Firearms

Every gun collects dirt and carbon with use, which can affect its performance. That’s why you need a good solvent to clean off the buildup and residue. One such solvent is the three-in-one oil, commonly referred to as “CLP” (clean, lubricate, protect/preserve). These oils not only lubricate but also clean and protect firearms.

Before you start going for the performance oils above, I suggest that you have at least one good CLP at home.

Best Cleaning + CLP Oils

1. Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner
2. Break-Free CLP
3. Gunzilla CLP

Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner Review

If I had to pick one cleaner for all my guns for the rest of my life, it would be Hoppe’s No.9 Gun Bore Cleaner. 

I swear by this solvent for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it’s an incredibly versatile gun oil, capable of cleaning any firearm, from old revolvers to modern rifles. Secondly, its effectiveness is unmatched; it efficiently removes abrasive dirt and breaks down grime and residue.

Over my 15 years of using it, I’ve experienced zero corrosion issues, thanks to its inhibiting properties that prevent carbon and lead buildup, protecting guns from rust and corrosion.

Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner is the best for cleaning gun bores, especially when paired with a bore snake for rifles. A quick pass with the solvent followed by thorough swabbing gives you a spotless bore. However, it’s worth noting that while it gets the job done, it’s quite strong and not the safest for skin contact. Plus, its distinct smell might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for me, the cleaning results are well worth it.

Hoppe’s Bore Cleaner is also not an all-in-one, so you do need a lubricator to accompany it, but as far as cleaning goes, this one has my trust. 

I talk about the Hoppe’s No. 9 complete cleaning kit in my best gun cleaning kit article, so check it out if you’re interested. 

Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner Pros and Cons

Break-Free CLP Review

Break-Free CLP is considered the gold standard for gun oils. Trusted by militaries and police departments worldwide, it’s your all-in-one solution for cleaning, lubricating, and protecting your firearm from rust.

This gun oil is made from high-quality synthetic oils. It stays effective even in extreme heat or cold, preventing gumming up. It also stops new buildup and offers long-lasting protection. Plus, it makes cleaning burnt powder residue off parts like the lever and bolt carrier easy.

While it may not offer the highest-performance lubrication compared to specialized oils, it remains a staple for every gun owner. If you’re looking for the best-performance lubrication, look at the list of best oils for lubrication.

I especially like to use this oil with needle oiler bottles and the barber’s shave brush that I recommend in the buyer’s guide. Its consistency strikes the perfect balance between reaching inner metal parts and avoiding excessive spreading. However, it’s important that you be careful because it can thin out and spread when you apply it.

Ultimately, this is the best all-purpose gun oil. It does a decent job of cleaning and lubricating and I love to use it for rust protection.

You can see my complete breakdown in our full review of the Break-Free CLP!

Break-Free CLP Pros and Cons

Gunzilla CLP Review

Gunzilla CLP is my top pick for both indoor and outdoor firearm maintenance. As a non-toxic cleaner, lubricant, and preservative, it effectively cleans and safeguards firearms without the harsh chemical odor often associated with such products.

I appreciate how Gunzilla allows for convenient firearm maintenance right at my kitchen table, thanks to its minimal odor and non-toxic formula, which is gentle on the skin and eyes.

Whether it’s handguns, shotguns, or rifles, Gunzilla proves its versatility, offering comprehensive cleaning, lubrication, and preservation. Its plant-based composition excels at light cleaning tasks and leaves a thin protective film to deter rust.

For those using inexpensive bulk ammunition, Gunzilla simplifies the cleaning process, efficiently removing residue without leaving behind excessive oil. Plus, its effectiveness means you use less product, saving money in the long run.

However, be warned that if left on for a long time, it can get a bit gummy. Also, I’ve seen it hurt some plastics when you store it for a long time.

You can see my complete breakdown in our full review on Gunzilla CLP Gun Oil!

Gunzilla CLP Pros and Cons

Reviews of the Best Gun Grease

In heavy-use or high-heat situations, oils might not stick around long enough. That’s when grease comes in handy. I’ve used it on my pistol and bolt action rifle with great results. It’s messy but protects against corrosion. Just don’t use it in freezing temperatures as it can harden and jam your gun.

Lucas Extreme Duty Grease Review

There are many shooters who dislike grease – I get it. It can be a bit messy and oil seems like a better solution.

But when it comes to heavy-duty tasks, nothing beats a good grease. Compared to oil, grease sticks better to metal and you don’t need to use as much.

I can confidently say that Lucas Extreme Duty Grease is the best for heavy-duty jobs. It comes in a small tube, making it easy to apply exactly where you need it. Plus, it’s super slick and doesn’t gum up like other greases.

But there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s a bit pricey, and it doesn’t work well in cold temperatures. However, it can handle extreme heat like a champ, making it perfect for hot climates. Some friends of mine even swear by it for their AR-15s, saying it keeps them running smoothly even in intense heat.

So, if you’re dealing with high temperatures and heavy use, this grease is definitely worth considering.

Lucas Extreme Duty Grease Pros and Cons

Gun Oil Buyer’s Guide

There are a lot of important things you need to know about Gun Oil. Hopefully in the sections above I covered most of it. However, if you’d like to learn more about them and the differences between certain types, then check out the below gun oil buyer’s guide.

What to Consider When Buying Gun Oil

Here are a few things to think about when you’re looking for a good gun oil. 

Purpose – The right gun oil for you depends on what you want to use it for. If you are looking to prevent rust build-up when you store away your guns, something like the Break-Free CLP is your best bet. But if all you want is an oil that can maintain your day-to-day rifle, you can go with almost any gun oil out there. 

Temperature – The gun oil or grease you need for high-temperature situations is very different from the lube used for cold environments. For example, in hot climates, grease works well for high-temperature guns, but avoid using it in cold weather as it can harden and cause gun malfunctions.

Environment – In addition to the temperature, also think about the general environment you’ll be using your gun. If you are taking it out hunting in sandy places and using a very thin lubricant, the dust can really get into your gun and stop it from working properly. Opt for more viscous oils or grease during these situations. 

Composition – I’ve talked about it in detail below but since most gun oils are made from refined petroleum, they tend to be irritants. If you have sensitive skin or irritants are an absolute no-go for you, you can opt for a plant or animal-based non-toxic oil. 

Transportation – Think about how you’ll carry your gun oil. For home use, a big bottle on your workbench works fine. But for trips to the range or field, grab a smaller, portable bottle for your bag. You can even fill a travel-sized bottle yourself.

Application Tools – Get the right tools for applying your oil. Needle oiler bottles are precise and great for reaching tight spots. Also, consider a barber’s shave brush. It helps spread the oil evenly, making sure your firearm stays in top shape.

Three-In-One vs. Gun Grease vs. Gun Oil

If you’re this far into this article and are unsure about what to get for your gun, I’ve failed you.

I have tried to give you options and pros and cons for different types of gun oils but I hope that I haven’t made your decision more difficult.

Remember this: If you’re looking for the best do-all gun oil, just get Break-Free CLP and enjoy shooting! If you’re looking for a premium synthetic for lubrication because you’re doing a lot of shooting, just get Mobil 1.

It’s that easy.

There are really only three types of products to consider:

• Three-in-one gun oils (the best is Break-Free CLP),
• Gun Grease (my favorite is Lucas Gun Grease), and
• Gun Oil (just for lubrication – get Mobil 1 or Militec-1)

The three-in-one oil is the jack-of-all-trades and master of none. It cleans, lubes, and preserves firearms but isn’t the best at any one thing. If you want one oil for everything, go for a three-in-one.

Gun oil is perfect for heavy-duty lubrication and reaching tricky firearm parts, ensuring smooth operation. For better performance, try Mobil 1 Synthetic or Militec-1 oils.

For situations where lubrication needs to stay put or in heavy-use scenarios, choose gun grease like Lucas Gun Grease. It’s thicker and sticks better to metal, but may harden faster in the cold.

Also, gun grease can improve the operation of bolt action rifles when applied to bolt bodies and lugs.

Gun Oil Accessories

If you were on the fence about using gun oil, hopefully now you’ve made up your mind. When it comes to oiling your guns, there are three oil accessories I recommend to anyone who’s willing to listen: 

1. A small bottle that travels with your gun gear, 
2. A needle oil bottle for precise application, and 
3. A barber’s shave brush.

Travel Oil Bottle

The first essential gun oil accessory is a reliable travel bottle, perfect for trips to the range or woods.

If you’re new to gun care, opting for a gun-specific oil in a travel size is a smart choice. For example, my favorite gun-specific oil comes in perfect travel containers that can be refilled.

As your gear collection grows and you start purchasing gun oil in larger containers, investing in your own travel-size oil bottles becomes essential.

Needle Oil Bottle

Although these bottles might not handle rough travel, they’re super handy for gun care.

They let you apply oil just where you need it, saving oil and mess. Plus, they keep oil away from unwanted spots on your firearm, bench, or clothes.

Seriously, once you start using these, you won’t want anything else.

Barber’s Shave Brush

You might be wondering why I’d recommend a shave brush for gun oil.

Well, gun oil helps preserve your firearm by keeping rust at bay. But here’s the thing: it’s tricky to apply just the right amount without making a mess.

Here’s my solution: I keep a barber’s barber’s shave brush, along with my Break-Free CLP. A few drops of oil on the brush, then a quick dab and wipe – it does the job perfectly!

The brush spreads the oil evenly, reaching into tight corners effortlessly. Plus, it holds onto the oil, making it a reliable tool for years to come.

Conclusion

Maintaining firearms in mint condition isn’t always easy with so many things to keep in mind; you need to lubricate them for good functionality, clean them post-use, and protect them from the elements. Gun oil can help you with all of these greasy tasks – you just need to spend some effort and time. 

Whether you want to improve the performance or the longevity of the firearm, you can find a gun oil (or a grease) that works. Have you tried any of the oils/grease from our list? Share your experience with us below.

Best Gun Oil – FAQs