Best Gun Oils & Gun Greases [9 Tested]: Lube It Up! (2024)

If you’re a gun owner, you know the importance of keeping your firearms well-lubed (get your mind out of the gutter..). But with so many gun oils, combination products (CLP), and greases on the market, it can be tough to figure out which one is right for you. We decided to test a few of the most popular brands to see which one comes out on top!

Why should you trust us?

We compared nine of the most popular brands to see which one is best, and we are confident in our findings. Choosing the appropriate gun lubricant is crucial, and we want to assist you with your selection process.

We also know opinions from friends, family, or some random person at the range can make it hard and confusing to decide what to use to lubricate your gun (mind out of the gutter again..).

Outdoor Method’s Best Gun Oils & Gun Greases (LIST)

To make the review easier to follow, we categorize product reviews into three sections.

Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function

1. Militec-1 Gun Oil (Top Premium Oil)
2. Hoppes #9 Lubricating Oil (Editor’s Pick for Average Shooter)
3. Gunfighter Oil (Best All Around)
4. Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil (Best Oil On a Budget)
5. Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil (Best Container for Range Bag)

BEST OILS FOR CLEANING AND PRESERVING (CLP):

1. Break Free CLP (Editor’s Pick)
2. Otis Bio-CLP (Runner Up)

BEST GUN GREASE:

1. Tetra Gun 004B1 (Grease) (Editor’s Pick)
2. Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Grease (Best Premium Grease)

Reviews of the Best Gun Oils for Lubrication/Function

These are our top picks for gun oils designed for lubrication/function.

Militec-1 Gun Oil Review (Top Premium Oil)

The return on this investment will be well worth it – I took my bolt action rifle after using a little Militec-1, and the bolt started sliding like it’s on ball bearings. It was impressive.

Militec has taken gun enthusiasts by storm with their innovative product. The oil is designed specifically for metal treatment and can be used as an additive in engine applications. It’s not just great at protecting against corrosion either; according to Milites’ site, this fantastic formula also ensures that all parts operate more efficiently, which means higher performance from start to finish.

Just be warned, this will cost you a fair amount.

Pros:

• Premium Performance
• Great for a gun that is heavily used
• Designed for metal treatment

Cons:

• Price

Militec-1 Gun Oil Specs:

• Lubrication Type: Oil
• Freezing point: -54.4°F
• Flash Point: 478 °F
• Viscosity: Medium
• Fit in your range bag?: Yes

Source:militec-1.com

Hoppes #9 Lubricating Oil Review (Editors Pick for Average Shooter)

Growing up, my dad always used Hoppes #9 oil with a suitable solvent. This tried-and-true method was and still is effective in lubricating and helping in protecting your gun against corrosion without drying out or becoming hard.

It also neutralizes your gun solvent after you clean your gun and leaves your gun nice and lubed (yeah, I know, mind in the gutter)

One disadvantage is that it may run somewhat, but the precision applicator on most bottles makes it a breeze to put where you want it.

Some folks do not like the smell of it as well, but to me, I love the smell…

This item is manufactured in the United States.

Pros:

• Precision applicator (most bottles)
• Won’t gum up, harden, or evaporate
• Great for the average shooter’s lube
• It will help preserve your gun

Cons:

• Temperature range
• Smell (am I the only person that likes this?)

Hoppes #9 Lubricating Oil Specs:

• Lubrication Type: Oil
• Freezing point: Not recorded
• Flash Point: 378 °F
• Viscosity: Low
• Fit in your range bag?: Yes

Source:Hoppes.com

Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil Review (Best Oil on a Budget)

This high-quality synthetic oil can be used for lubricating your gun. It has been designed to meet the demanding needs of high-performance engines, but it also works excellent for firearms.

The oil is resistant to high temperatures and enables your firearm to work well. It is also non-flammable, so you don’t have to worry as much about it causing any problems if it comes into contact with sparks or open flames.

It is also much cheaper than specific gun oils, and you get a large quantity for the price. Frankly, any 5W-20 oil will work if you are in a pinch.

However, remember this oil helps with your firearm operating; it does not help with persevering your gun.

We recommend getting a specific bottle to pour this in to make it easier to use on your gun.

Pros:

• High-quality synthetic oil
• Resistant to high temperatures
• Non-flammable
• Price

Cons:

• Does not come in a bottle designed for a gun application.

Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil Specs:

• Lubrication Type: Oil
• Freezing point: Not recorded
• Flash Point: 453 °F
• Viscosity: Medium
• Fit in your range bag?: No

Source:Mobil.com

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil Review (Best Container for Range Bag)

The best thing about gun oil is that there are so many options! I love how Lucas Oil formulated its product because it provides excellent protection for your guns.

This oil is made to keep your firearm in top shape. It has additives that create a polymeric film on metal parts which helps protect them from wear and rust.

According to the company, this product comes with superior burn-off resistance. However, we haven’t noticed any difference in performance compared to other options available in today’s market, but it sounds fantastic!

I love the sturdy needle bottle that Lucas Oil uses. The container is perfect for throwing into a range bag because it won’t break or leak.

Pros:

• Premium gun oil
• Great container with applicator
• Quality Ingredients

Cons:

• Cost
• Temperature range

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Oil Specs:

• Lubrication Type: Oil
• Freezing point: -38°F
• Flash Point: 415 °F
• Viscosity: High
• Fit in your range bag?: Yes

Gunfighter Oil Review (Best All Around)

This 100% synthetic gun oil is designed to excel in various conditions and temperatures on any gun.

Whether you’re using your gun for tactical purposes, hunting, or competition shooting, Gunfighter Gun Oil will keep your weapon performing at its best. The unique formula is designed to stay put, Keep parts slick and clean up quickly and safely. You’ll also appreciate the superior corrosion protection and odorless formula.

Beyond just guns, this versatile oil can also be used on fishing reels, squeaky parts, machinery, tools, hinges, etc. Not sure this would be the best idea financially, but you get the idea. THIS STUFF WORKS!

Pros:

• 100% synthetic
• Non-toxic
• Doesn’t dry/ become tacky
• Operating temperature

Cons:

• None

Gunfighter Oil Specs:

• Lubrication Type: Oil
• Freezing point: No data
• Flash Point: 519 °F
• Viscosity: High
• Fit in your range bag?: Yes

Source:gunfighteroil.com

THE BEST OILS FOR CLEANING, LUBRICATING, AND PROTECTING YOUR FIREARMS

If you’re looking for a product that does it all, you might want to consider a 3-in-1 gun oil. They are also known as CLP (clean, lubricate, and protect) oils. And while there are many 3-in-1 gun oils on the market, we’ve narrowed down the list to our top two picks.

Break Free CLP (Editor’s Pick)

Break Free CLP is a popular gun oil known for its quality and effectiveness. It is made by the company Break Free, manufacturing firearms lubricants and cleaners since 1978.

Break Free CLP is a synthetic 3-in-1 oil that protects your gun against corrosion, dirt, and dust. This oil will help lubricate your firearm. It also contains a rust inhibitor that helps to keep your gun looking new.

One of the benefits of Break Free CLP is that it is straightforward to use. You simply apply the oil to a clean cloth and then wipe it down your gun. This process only takes a few minutes and will help keep your gun in good condition.

Another benefit of Break Free CLP is that it is very affordable. Which makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters.

Pros:

• Cheap
• One of the Top all in 1 gun oils (CLP)
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Not great at cleaning, lubricating, or protecting

Otis Bio-CLP (Runner Up)

OTIS BIO CLP is the all-in-one solution for cleaning, lubricating, and protecting your firearm. Formulated to meet MIL-PRF-63460F Type B specifications, this CLP penetrates into tight areas to reduce surface friction and leaves behind a thin film that seals moisture to prevent rust and corrosion.

With a broad temperature range of operability from -60˚F to +160˚F (-51˚C to +71˚C), OTIS BIO CLP can be used in small and large caliber weapons systems. It is available in .5oz, 4oz, 16oz, 32oz, and 1-gallon sizes, with bulk options available upon request.

Pros:

• No smell
• Easy to Use
• Used by NATO

Cons:

• The container has been known to leak

REVIEWS OF THE BEST GUN GREASE

Oils can run off or break down too quickly in heavily utilized applications or high-temperature environments. Grease is an alternative in these situations.

Grease is a thickened oil with a polymer or silicone additive to deter dust, dirt, and carbon. Grease is also the most excellent at corrosion protection.

However, grease in extraordinarily chilly climates might freeze and become so hard that it will prevent your firearm from functioning.

Grease also can be very messy, and do not put any of it in your hair, please…

Tetra Gun Grease 004B1 (Editor’s Pick)

Tetra Gun Grease is one of the most advanced firearm lubricants on the market today. Their unique formula is engineered to withstand the elements under various climates and conditions, making it the perfect choice for both professionals and novice shooters.

Tetra Gun Grease is specially formulated to provide a long-lasting barrier reducing friction, rust, and wear on critical moving parts. This ensures smoother operation and improved accuracy, no matter what firearm you use.

Pros

• Reduces friction, making your job easier.
• Low odor, so you can work in peace.
• It will not migrate, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off.
• Travel size available
• Widest temperature range -100°F to 750°F

Cons

• Does not do well in low-temperature settings

Lucas Extreme Duty Gun Grease (Best Premium Grease)

This premium gun grease is designed to withstand extreme conditions, providing maximum lubrication and protection against wear, friction, and rust.

Lucas Oil Extreme Duty Gun Grease is formulated with a unique additive system that allows it to perform in even the harshest environments.

Recommended by major firearms manufacturers, Lucas Oil Extreme Duty Gun Grease is the perfect choice for those who demand the best for their weapons.

Pros:

• Great lubrication
• Stays in place
• Can handle heavy usage

Cons:

• Costly
• Not suitable for cold temperatures

Our Guide

Why do you need to lubricate your firearm?

Modern firearms are some of the most advanced weapons on earth, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect them.

You wouldn’t let your car ride thousands upon miles without an oil change, and even though guns can last for eternity with low maintenance – just like houses-they still need occasional tender loving care to keep performing optimally every time they’re called upon,

If you don’t take care of your firearm, the possibility that it will malfunction is very high. The wear and tear on a gun accelerate rapidly without regular maintenance; this means rust or corrosion are likely to form in short order too!

Overview of How to Clean Your Gun

Check out this video for an overview of properly cleaning your firearm.

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Types of Gun Lube Products

The three types of gun lube we reviewed:

Oils for function/lubrication:These oils are frequently synthetic and can resist high-pressure and high-temperature shots while also improving the performance and dependability of your weapon.

Oils that clean/preserve (CLP):All-in-one lubricants might not give the best performance in lubrication, but they can protect your firearm against corrosion and help you clean it.

Greases: Grease, while not technically “oil,” may be beneficial in some instances with firearms – notably heavy-duty weapons or those that require a lot of lube. Grease should be avoided in icy circ*mstances.

What’s the difference between oil and grease?

Oil and grease are both lubricants used to reduce friction between two objects. However, there are some critical differences between the two.

Oil is a liquid, while grease is solid. This means that oil can flow more easily than grease, which makes it better for lubricating moving parts. Grease is better at staying in place.

So, which is the best lubricant for your gun? It depends on your needs. If you need a lubricant that will flow easily and keep your gun moving smoothly, oil is the best choice for an all-around lubricant.

Grease is suitable for high wear or high impact points on your firearm.

WHY DO YOU NEED GUN OIL?

A gun needs oil or a lubricant to keep it functioning correctly. If you don’t keep your weapon well-oiled, the moving parts will grind against each other and wear down, which can cause the gun to jam or even break. Some gun oils can also help prevent rusting and be used to help clean your gun.

Let’s look at the different purposes of gun oil.

Gun Oil Purpose #1: Lubrication and Function

Like a car’s engine, a firearm’s barrel requires lubrication to combat heat generated by combustion and friction and pressure caused by the moving components.

This also applies to this comparison: the lubrication of an engine (just as with a gun) does two things – it aids in smoother operation, AND it aids in the prevention of significant wear, allowing the engine to run longer.

On the other hand, modern weapons may have polymer (plastic) parts, although their essential components are still metal since they must be robust and endure usage. Using oils formulated explicitly for lubrication and function will improve your weapon’s performance and dependability.

Gun Oil Purpose #2: Protection from Corrosion

Gun oil is a type of oil used to protect guns from corrosion. It forms a protective barrier against rust and other damaging elements, which helps keep guns in good condition for longer.

So why not use just any gun oil for protection against corrosion?

Excellent question! Some of the oils for lubrication may cause problems with high-end firearm finishes, wood stocks, grips, or even specific polymers. Also, CLPs will do a better job at preventing corrosion than oils designed explicitly for lubrication only.

Some gun oils can get gummy over time as well. As a result, although any gun oil is adequate for lubrication, you should consider applying something formulated to protect against corrosion to your firearm before storing it for long periods.

Gun Oil Purpose #3: Cleaning

Some gun oils may be used to clean your firearm. Only oils explicitly made to clean your firearm, such as Break-Free CLP, should be used. However, even CLPs aren’t entirely effective in the task. It’s better than nothing in an emergency, but it isn’t perfect.

A suitable cleaning solvent like Hoppe’s gun bore cleaning solvent can be used for better results.

TYPES OF GUN LUBES AND CLEANING PRODUCTS

There are various methods to arrange different types of gun lubricants and cleaning chemicals. The following are some examples of categories that may help you understand the wide varieties available:

Natural vs. Synthetic:Natural or manufactured gun oils are available, just like motor oils. Natural oils are generally less expensive, although synthetic oils have more extraordinary lubricating qualities.

Single Purpose vs. Three-In-One:Three-in-one oils, such as Break-Free CLP, are designed to protect against corrosion while also lubricating and cleaning.

Gun Oils vs. Gun Solvents:Oils can be used to clean guns in certain situations, but they’re usually intended to keep things moving. Solvents, however, are meant to assist with carbon and fouling removal so that a weapon may be adequately cleaned.

Hazardous vs. Non-hazardous:Some gun oils are clearly unsafe, while others are labeled “non-toxic.” Regardless we don’t believe we’d like to drink any of them.

Expensive vs. Affordable:Prices range from affordable all the way to expensive.

THREE-IN-ONE (CLPs) VS. Dedicated Products

Dedicatedproducts perform just one function, such as a particular solvent or oil.

A three-in-one product is a solvent, protective oil, and lubricant. 3-in-1s are also calledClean Lube Protect (CLPs).

The average shooter that only shoots every now and then should consider using a CLP simply due to the simplicity of only dealing with one product.

If you use a CLP, make sure you use it with a product designed to specifically lubricate every now and then. Remember, three-in-one oils are the jack of all trades but masters of none.

Single-purpose goods are one-trick ponies that perform well!

And, if you’re looking for lubrication that won’t wash away or want a little more oomph in the power department, there’s gun grease like Lucas Gun Grease.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING GUN OIL

1. What kind of gun do you have?
2. What are you wanting the oil to do? Single-purpose lube or multiple-purpose lube?
3. How often will you use your weapon?
4. How long will your gun be stored between shooting it?
5. Where will you use the oil? At home or the range (look at the container and applicator).

How is the oil applied?

Aerosols

Everybody: “Lubricants cannot be aerosols” WD-40: “hold my beer.”

An aerosol, in general, is a substance that has been compressed and will spray with mists or vapor.

Some aerosol gun oils have a tiny straw on the container that can be tucked away when not used. Straws, on the other hand, may get messy if used. If you’re using an aerosol gun oil, practice.

Dripper

Drip bottles are also helpful for applying oils to a gun. Because the smaller nozzle prevents overflow when used on smaller areas or cracks within the weapon, it’s ideal for a range bag or cargo pouch.

Bulk

When it comes to large purchases, the rule is that more is cheaper. Buying oil in bulk also allows you to soak parts of weapons.

Each gun does not need to be bathed submersively, but heavy weapon repairs or restoration may necessitate it.

Wipes

Presoaked and prepared cloths are now available for some brands of gun oils. They’re a simple tool to lubricate any surface on a gun.

However, these wipes are somewhat limited because they can only get easy-to-reach surfaces on the gun.

FAQ

What gun oil does the military use?

Navy Seals use a variety of gun oils; they include Lucas Gun Oil and Breakfree CLP.

What can you use to lube your gun?

Depending on what you want in a lubricant, you can lube a gun with various oils and greases. Whichever option you choose, read the instructions carefully and apply the oil properly to ensure that your weapon is adequately lubricated.

Is WD40 suitable for gun cleaning?

WD-40 is not a good choice for gun cleaning. It is not a good choice for lubrication either. In fact, it can actually cause damage to the metal surfaces of the gun. DO NOT USE IT!

Should I keep my gun oiled?

Yes, it is essential to keep your gun oiled. Oiling your firearm will help keep it functioning correctly. Read the instructions carefully and apply the oil properly to get the most out of it. Make sure the lube you use will not gum up your gun when you store it.

Can you store an oiled gun?

Yes, you can store a gun with oil. Storing a firearm oiled will keep it lubricated. Make sure the lube you use will not gum up your rifle when you store it (Broken record?)

Should I oil the barrel of my gun?

Yes, oiling the barrel of your gun will help keep it functioning correctly and will help to prevent wear and tear. Read the instructions carefully and apply the oil properly to get the most out of it.

Should I grease or oil my gun?

It depends on what you are looking for in a lubricant. For most, oil is the best all-around lubricant to use. However, grease is best for high wear and tear or high-impact areas of a firearm. Such as a rail of a semi-gun pistol.

What is a good gun oil to prevent rust?

Any CLP will work well at preventing rust from a gun oil standpoint.

Can Hoppes oil prevent rust?

Hoppes gun oil is a popular choice for many people and is known for its ability to has been known to prevent rust from my personal experience. I’m talking deep south USA with a lot of humidity and dueling banjos…Run

Summary of our Top Picks

So, what’s the verdict? After extensive testing, we found that Hoppes oil is the best gun oil for lubrication and function. For CLP (cleaner, lubricant, protector), Break Free CLP was our top pick. And finally, Tera Gun 004B1 is the best gun grease on the market from our standpoint. Honestly, any of the products listed above will serve you well. It’s vital to start lubricating and cleaning your firearms now – don’t wait until it’s too late!