It is no secret that guns treated with proper care by precise cleaning and maintenance last for years, delivering excellent condition and performance. Of course, if it is about safety in use, clean guns are unquestionably favorable. To achieve the best gun cleaning results, you must know how to clean different parts of your gun, primarily the gun bore. That’s why you need the best bore cleaner to do the job because only the correct tool does the correct job, right?
Suppose that you are still contemplating whether you really need to clean your gun bore. In that case, you don’t have to worry about anything because you can learn more here about gun bore and why you need to clean it with the best bore cleaner regularly. Don’t think twice and just explore everything below.
What is Gun Bore and Why do you need to clean it?
Basically, a gun bore is an essential part of your gun. It is inside of the gun barrel. If you inspect your gun, you’ll see a long metal tube; it is the gun bore, where the bullet passes through after you fire your gun. One of the primary reasons why you need to take care of it is that it helps guide the bullet and its speed on its way. That’s why it is no wonder that it is built with tough, resistant materials.
Since the gun bore is basically an interior of the barrel, it is challenging to keep it in the best shape because you won’t see it clearly. In fact, your gun bore might not be genuine smooth without the help of the best gun bore cleaners. After knowing what a gun bore is and why it is an essential gun bore, let’s now discuss why you need to clean it regularly.
Truly, as gun bore has an important function in a gun, it is more than enough reason to take care of it by cleaning it. As the bullet passes through the gun bore, any contaminants on it, such as the build-up of lead, copper, and rust, will surely cause doom. See, each time you fire your gun, the gunpowder leaves remnants. If you let the remnants be in your gun bore, expect the trouble of bullets to fire off-target or overall gun malfunction.
Gun malfunction comes with the domino effect of gun safety risks. It means that your gun is no longer safe to use, making it useless. Just how big the damage can be if you neglect your gun, right? On the other hand, improper storage of a gun can also cause serious damage since moisture can cause rust and corrosion, a way to deteriorate your gun quickly.
After knowing that your gun bore can accumulate left behind remnants, it is best for you to regularly clean it using the best gun bore cleaners and other cleaning supplies, such as cleaning rods, patches, and bore snakes. However, the star here is the bore cleaners. Interestingly, there are different types of bore cleaners. With that being said, it is more beneficial to know them to know what suits your needs and preferences. So, without further ado, let’s get into that.
Types of Bore Cleaner
Having abundant choices is both a blessing and a curse. As for bore cleaners, you will find it more challenging to explore gun cleaners without knowing the type you can choose from. Of course, it is necessary to choose the best that suits your gun bore cleaner needs and preferences well. Also, it is not bad to be too picky because bore cleaners can help extend your gun lifespan.
Even though bore cleaners are made differently, they have the primary purpose of cleaning and removing unwanted contaminants and remnants in the gun bore. Admittedly, most gun cleaning kits don’t include bore cleaners in the set as they are consumable. But before buying yours, you must know first the different types of it. Explore them below:
Liquid cleaner
Admittedly, liquid cleaners are favorable to countless gun owners because they provide hassle-free and quick use. Obviously, being in liquid form, cleaners can penetrate more in the interior, covering every part of the gun bore. In addition, you can use liquid cleaners with either cleaning patches or brushes for precise and efficient applications.
Truly, if you aim to maintain the safety of your gun bore, you can trust the liquid cleaners for that since they are innovatively formulated to provide a powerful yet safe effect. Of course, no matter how good liquid cleaners are, they are not perfect. With that being said, it should not surprise you to see some flaws with liquid cleaners.
Undeniably, if you use liquid solvents without proper caution, it will lead to messy applications. In fact, if you will not use a gun cleaning mat, your cleaning station will suffer from damage. Unfortunately, most liquid cleaners are stored in small bottles without any nozzle. By that, it will be hard for you to control pouring the cleaner. Eventually, you will use too much one at a time. With that, you will surely quickly consume the cleaner.
More importantly, you need to be extra attentive and cautious with using the liquid cleaner as too much of it can lead to a greasy residue. With that, using the cleaner will become totally useless. Nevertheless, you really need to be careful with using bore cleaners. That’s why being extra careful with liquid forms will not give you too much burden. Hence, it is still wise to choose liquid cleaners.
Aerosol spray cleaner
Aerosol spray cleaners are known for their easy and convenient application, thanks to their water-like consistency, formulation, and bottle design. With their spray application, you need less time to clean your gun bore and remove unwanted residues, such as lead, gunk, and copper. They are manageable to use and ideal for eliminating stubborn, old residue.
Like liquid cleaners, you also need to pay strict attention to this type of bore cleaner, as you can use too much because of its consistency. That’s why you can waste the product if you are too quick with spraying and don’t give the cleaner time to penetrate. Compared with liquid cleaners, aerosol spray cleaners are less messy and more convenient.
It is worth pointing out that aerosol spray cleaners might be challenging for gun owners with unsteady hands. To be able not to waste any of it, you must apply it thoroughly.
Foaming cleaner
Foaming cleaners are generally stored in a bottle with a pump. Also, they feature a thinner consistency just right to do the effective job of removing the stubborn build-up of gunk and other remnants in the gun bore. Out of all the types of bore cleaners, foaming cleaners are the utmost ideal in avoiding mess and spills.
Besides having less mess, foaming solvents are also safe to use. It is all thanks to their impressively smart formulation. It is already mentioned above that they usually come in a pump. By that, it is easier for you to dispense it and have quicker penetration.
Moreover, this bore cleaner type is formulated to purposely deal with older gunk and residue. In fact, if you let foaming cleaners in your gun bore for a few minutes soaking, any unwanted contaminants will surely become loosened. Hence, you can finally have a smoother gun bore.
Now, let’s go with knowing the best bore cleaners. Let’s get started.
10 Best Bore Cleaners
Out in the local or online stores, you will surely find it more challenging to find the best bore cleaner compatible with your gun by having abundant options. Thankfully, you don’t have to search much further because you can see the narrowed-down list here. Check them out below and discover each detailed review:
1. Hoppe’s 904 No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner
Let’s start this list with an old-fashioned formulation meant for versatile use and compatibility. It is no other than Hoppe’s 904 No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner. Since it boasts an old formula and is still part of the best bore cleaners, it is safe to say that it has been a fan favorite of countless gun owners for decades until now.
Thanks to its excellent formulation, it deals with several built-up contaminants, residue, and fouling in the gun bore, such as metal, rust, primer, lead, carbon, powder, and rust. One of the main reasons it became a fan favorite is that it delivers a deep penetration to efficiently eliminate unwanted components staying in the gun bore. Hence, there’s no wasted time for the gun owners, especially since they have more to do than gun bore cleaning.
Aside from being a super-effective cleaner, Hoppe’s 904 No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner also boasts a nice cleaning smell. On top of it, the product is stored in a child-proof cap, making it safe to store and use. More importantly, it is important to say that this cleaner is available in quart size.
Knowing the relevant information above, here is one question. Why settle for less when you can have a super-effective cleaner with a nice, tolerable smell in Hoppe’s 904 No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner? Best of all, it is compatible with various firearms, such as revolvers, shotguns, rifles, and pistols, proving that it is worth trying.
2. Birchwood Casey Bore Scrubber 2-in-1 Bore Cleaner
Want an effective yet incredibly budget-friendly bore cleaner? Well then, you must know about the Birchwood Casey Bore Scrubber 2-in-1 Bore Cleaner. As the name implies, it features a dual cleaning solution to deliver you a smoother and cleaner gun bore. In addition, it is also versatile as it works well in other firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns.
Moreover, this 2-in-1 bore cleaner is a specially formulated aerosol spray that does it all in eliminating bore fouling, such as nitro, plastic, carbon, powder, and lead fouling. In fact, it does all the work of fighting, dissolving, and removing build-up fouling efficiently with less time to deliver a ready and looking brand new spotlessly clean gun bore.
Thanks to its superior rust protection, the Birchwood Casey Bore Scrubber supports long-term protection to your gun bore. By that, your gun will also lead to a longer lifespan. Truly, being free of contaminants is a way to preserve its condition and quality.
You don’t have to worry about using this bore cleaner regularly as it does not contain any nitrobenzene, butyl cellosolve, and other toxic ingredients. Yes, it has a powerful and safe effect on gun bores. In fact, the Birchwood Casey Bore Scrubber 2-in-1 Bore Cleaner is a wise choice if you want a safer and gentler gun bore cleaner.
3. Otis Technology Foaming Bore Cleaner
Otis Technology has successfully built up an excellent and trustworthy reputation over the years by bringing much value to its products, including its Foaming Bore Cleaner. Indeed, the cleaner delivers an excellent coat to the gun bore for premium cleaning results by precisely removing build-up residues, dirt, and grime.
Moreover, it is essential to point out that this bore cleaner does not give instant clean results for stubbornly tough unwanted remnants on the gun bore. With that being said, the Otis Technology Foaming Bore Cleaner is best for regular use to ensure proper and precise cleaning.
What’s ideal for this cleaner is that it does not leave any residue in the gun bore. That’s why you can peacefully use it without worrying about gun damage later on. Since it is a foaming bore cleaner, it is not surprising that it efficiently works by delivering the deepest penetration within just a few minutes.
Of course, the cleaner comes with a powerful formulation. But nothing is compromised as it is non-toxic and comes with a mild scent. Due to its scent, it is better to use it outdoors because inhaling its scent for too long is not ideal and healthy. In addition, proper management and storage are required for the Otis Technology Foaming Bore Cleaner as its content is flammable.
Nevertheless, keeping a bore cleaner in a safe place, away from children and pets, is a standard for proper management. Also, its foaming consistency can expand to have complete coverage on your gun bore. Therefore, you can use it for a long time.
4. Butch’s Bore Shine Bore Cleaner
Looking for a well-developed gun bore cleaner with a well-known reputation? Trying out the Butch’s Bore Shine Bore Cleaner is a good idea. See, it is developed by one of the most reputable and experienced shooters, none other than but Charles L. “Butch” Fisher. That’s why it is intended to benefit bench rest shooters.
Moreover, the cleaner is ideally meant to deal with frustrating gun bore fouling, primarily copper fouling. Plus, it is non-abrasive, so it is safe to use with only minimal effort. Since it is safe, you can peacefully apply it to your gun bore without fear of experiencing damage.
Besides eliminating fouling, this gun bore cleaner is also dependable for quick and effortless removal of other unwanted and damaging contaminants, including wad, wax, carbon, lead, and residue build-up. It is most important to mention that you must be extra careful when using and storing it since it can cause high irritation and is flammable.
Even though Butch’s Bore Shine Bore Cleaner can cause a threat, it is only possible if you misuse it. With that, you have nothing to worry about if you manage it properly. Therefore, it is still an outstanding choice to attain precise and thorough gun bore cleaning results.
5. Barnes Bullets CR-10 Bore Cleaner
The Barnes Bullets CR-10 Bore Cleaner is a great fighter of the toughest and most stubborn remnants deposits, such as lead, copper, and brass. It can effectively eliminate unwanted components out of your gun bore area to keep it in a good working condition to satisfy you. Curious about compatibility? You don’t have to stress about that because it is designed for firearms.
Truly, this gun bore cleaner is aggressive in fighting off stubborn deposits caused primarily by jacketed bullets that pass through your gun bore. In fact, you can enjoy a short time cleaning the gun. The recommended use is partnering it with a proper size cleaning brush. After soaking the brush with the bore cleaner, you can stroke the bore about 10-20 times to achieve a smoother and cleaner gun bore, extending its lifespan.
Aside from having no harmful aftereffect and being non-corrosive, you will also like the Barnes Bullets CR-10 more because it is highly affordable and dependable with powerful and aggressive results. Even though it is a liquid form bore cleaner, it is better not to shake it and only store it in a cool place.
Admittedly, this cleaner produces a strong ammonia odor. That’s why it is best and safest only to use it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area so you will not be wholly exposed to its odor. Therefore, if you can work on its odor, you can depend on it, especially with the most frustrating, toughest, and old deposits.
6. Shooter’s Choice MC-7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner
Looking for a multi-purpose gun bore cleaner? Well then, you need to get to know the Shooter’s Choice MC-7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner. Based on the name itself, you can expect it to deliver an excellent effect in cleaning, maintaining, and conditioning bore. It is approvingly compatible with various types of firearms, such as rifles, handguns, and shotguns.
Undeniably, this multi-purpose gun bore cleaner is dedicated to offering one of the best one-step concentrated cleaning solutions to fight off all types of contaminants and fouling build-up on your gun bore. In addition, it is formulated as a non-abrasive, which means that it is highly safe to apply with your gun bore surface with no harmful aftereffect.
Due to its several compositions, the Shooter’s Choice MC-7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner inevitably gain an ammonia scent odor. Of course, it is only best to use the multi-purpose cleaner and conditioner outdoors to tolerate and escape inhaling too much of its odor. If you intend to have a compact gun bore cleaner to effortlessly bring along with you in the outdoors, have this Shooter’s Choice MC-7, especially since it is ideal for quick, safe, and easy to use.
7. Lucas Oil Extreme Duty Bore Solvent & Ultrasonic Gun Cleaner
Perhaps you are looking for a versatile bore cleaner that doesn’t just clean but also delivers coat protection. In that case, you need to have the Lucas Oil Extreme Duty Bore Solvent & Ultrasonic Gun Cleaner. It offers an ideally affordable price despite having a premium blend of corrosion inhibitors and cleaning solvents.
Since it is also meant for protecting firearms, it does it by leaving protective coats that fight off rust and other dangerous contaminants that can linger on your gun’s surface. In addition, it is not only useful for bore cleaning and protection but also can care for other gun parts. In fact, it maintains great condition for the gun’s actions by eliminating powder and carbon residue on it.
Besides that, the Lucas Oil Extreme Duty Bore Solvent & Ultrasonic Gun Cleaner also covers the cleaning of barrels and cylinders by removing lead and copper fouling on them. Of course, there are other more favorable characteristics that this multi-purpose has. Best of that is its safe composition, which is harmless to use for not only polymers but also factory-applied firearm finishes.
Curious about the odor? Well, it has less odor and even comes with a grape scent which makes it more ideal for applying it to effectively clean different gun parts aside from gun bore. If you also need to deal with old grease and oil, this cleaner can also deeply remove it. With its excellent powerful cleaning effect, nothing can cause malfunction with your gun parts. Hence, they will last longer to enjoy the most of your gun’s value.
8. G96 Products Bore Solvent
One of the most outstanding build-up reputations for G96 Products Bore Solvent is that the military highly favors it as a tough and effective gun bore cleaner for various firearms. Since it is a liquid form, it delivers a thoroughly deep penetration to fight off different fouling such as copper, lead, and powder residue fouling.
You don’t have to worry about the metal parts of your gun because even if you spill this cleaner on them, they will take no damage as the cleaner is proven metal safe. In fact, it is highly ideal because it has no damaging aftereffects. It does not cause galvanic corrosion, rust, staining, and even oxidation, leading to peaceful use.
Due to its composition, this liquid cleaner features a yellowish color and ammonia odor. Obviously, there’s no way to hide that it requires more strict proper caution when applying and storing the G96 Products Bore Solvent since it is already part of its design in the bottle. In addition, it is mostly possible that this bore cleaner can be a threat to some varnishes, paints, and even plastics. Nonetheless, you will not experience it if you keep proper use of it.
9. Hoppe’s Traditional Bore Cleaner
No one can truly stop HOPPE’S from producing high-quality and dependable gun cleaners, and now truly should. So, let’s go to know Hoppe’s Traditional Bore Cleaner. Well, it is purposefully formulated to deliver an effortless and quick dissolution and removal of various residues, such as powder and copper.
In fact, the foam cleaner’s superior formula is genuinely outstanding in that it provides a thorough and deep penetration. With that, you won’t even need to do a harsh scrubbing or brushing. Moreover, the bore cleaner is stored in a bottle with an easy dispense tube, proving it can truly deliver an easy and quick application.
Moreover, the foam is orange at first. Interestingly, it will change when you apply it. Hoppe’s Traditional Bore Cleaner has an innovative formulation that the orange foam will turn to different colors to indicate effectiveness. It will turn black as a sign of powder removal and blue for the copper removal indicator. By that, you will always know if the cleaner works. What an advantage, right? If you want that, don’t think twice about getting it.
10. Ballistol Multi-Purpose Aerosol Spray
Indeed, the name itself says many hints with the Ballistol Multi-Purpose Aerosol Spray. By just knowing the name, you can already guess that it is formulated as a multi-purpose aerosol spray cleaner. Now, the question is, what exactly can it offer you? Well, it can offer you a complete solution from cleaning and lubrication to protection and preservation of your gun bore. Hence, it is acceptable knowing that it has been widely used by countless gun owners for decades now.
Truly, this multi-purpose aerosol spray cleaner is formulated with eco-friendly materials and with no carcinogens. That’s why it is also harmless to the skin. Despite having excellent formulation, you need to keep in mind that it is extremely flammable and fatal if swallowed. So, you need to keep it in the proper and safe place.
Undeniably, the Ballistol Multi-Purpose Aerosol Spray is a universal cleaner as it is impressively useful for other things. Aside from guns, you can also use this cleaner to take care of other tools and things, such as boots, knives, engines, leather, wood, and many more.
For its smell, it is quite tolerable when you apply it. However, it is still best to use it outdoors for less exposure and inhalation. On the other hand, it is also formulated as slightly alkaline in nature. With that being said, it can effortlessly neutralize the adverse effect of sweat and skin oils until there’s no more that can threaten your gun’s quality.
Overall, the Ballistol Multi-Purpose Aerosol Spray functionality and versatility make way beyond its cost, proving that it is genuinely worth trying for. So, if you are searching for a complete solution with ultra-effectiveness, why not try this one?
Best Bore Cleaner Buying Guide
The feeling when seeing abundant choices can still be overwhelming even if your options are already narrowed down. That’s why you need to have other buying factors to draw a distinctive line to find your best-suited gun bore cleaner to use with satisfaction. With that being said, here is a buying guide with a list of significant factors to consider. Explore them below:
Compatibility
Of course, even the best and most expensive bore cleaner is useless if it is not compatible with your gun bore cleaning needs. That’s why when looking for gun bore cleaners, you must prioritize checking if the one you intend to buy is truly compatible with your gun. See, every gun bore cleaner is different, especially with the composition.
Of course, there are versatile cleaners formulated compatible with various firearms. However, there are those cleaners that are made for only specific guns. With that having said, it is extremely necessary to check the product descriptions and labels. Until then, you might not be in peace of not knowing if the cleaner is compatible with your gun or not.
More importantly, you need to expect that you will come across the unique type of bore cleaners. In fact, you will also see multi-purpose bore cleaners. By that, you need to be more hands-on and careful in choosing your best bore cleaner so you won’t feel any frustration with any possible aftereffects of the bore cleaner.
Best of all, you must keep in mind that you don’t need to go through with the most expensive one but for the most functional and effective one that will deliver you with the smoothest gun bore with a long lifespan. After all, getting the most efficient and useful bore cleaner should be your best goal in buying one.
Fast-Acting Formula
Clearly, you might not have the whole day to take for gun bore cleaning. With that being said, you need to find the best cleaner with a fast-acting formula. Hence, you won’t feel too lazy to do gun bore cleaning regularly. Aside from the fast-acting formulation, you also need to ensure that the cleaner you buy will not trouble you for any abrasive and toxic aftereffects.
Of course, you need to be strict in choosing your best bore cleaner on its formulation, as you might compromise your gun bore for just eyeing for fast-acting formulation. Truly, there is no wrong with having a high standard for your bore cleaner as it helps your gun bore live long.
Quantity & Price
Even though you aim for the best bore cleaner with incredible functionality, you must not overlook checking the quantity and price. Luckily, they go hand in hand. In fact, you don’t have to get ripped off by buying the best bore cleaners.
With quantity and price, you need to ensure that you must check if the quantity of the cleaner reasonably matches its price to make the most out of your money and the gun cleaner’s value, including quality and functionality.
Final Thoughts
Admittedly, since gun bore is important, you need to have the best gun bore cleaner that matches its importance. Only by having the most suitable cleaner can you enjoy the outcome and advantage of having a clean gun, including consistent outstanding performance and long lifespan.
Truly, the main purpose of the relevant information and recommendations here is to help you get rid of the trouble and unnecessary frustration of searching for the best bore cleaners all by yourself. So, you can hopefully choose from them as they are genuinely the options that stand out among the abundant choices in the market. If it is about effectiveness, you don’t need to look at others aside from them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Since gun bore cleaning is genuinely an interesting topic to discuss, you might have a few questions on your mind about it, including about the gun bore cleaners. By that, explore the frequently asked questions below to discover more about them.
What happens if I don’t use gun bore cleaners?
If you just brush or scrub your gun bore using only tools, you will have a hard, long time doing it. Of course, you will not do a fine job as gun cleaning supplies will not loosen up remnants on your gun bore. Worse, you might scratch to damage your gun bore. Therefore, to do the job right and conveniently, it is better to use the best bore cleaners.
Are bore cleaners toxic?
Admittedly, there are cleaners for a gun bore formulated with some toxic materials. However, if you opt for non-toxic, there are also many options out there. In fact, there is no problem being picky and choosing biodegradable, non-hazardous, and non-toxic cleaners as they make gun bore cleaning ideal. One important note is that it is best to use these cleaners outdoors for safer use.
What are bore cleaners made of?
Bore cleaners are made from various compositions. The most common formulation includes Ammonium Hydroxide, Sodium Nitrate, Aromatic Hydrocarbon, and many more for effectiveness. Checking with the composition always tells you how effective a cleaner can be.
What can I use as a gun cleaner alternative?
If you want to use a gun cleaner alternative, no matter what your reason is, you can use a 50-50 solution of hydrogen peroxide, which is a common bathroom cleaner, and white vinegar. Together, white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide can deliver a tolerable and decent cleaning result.
How much are gun bore cleaners solvents?
With different compositions and forms, it just makes sense that each cleaner for gun bore has a different price. In fact, gun bore cleaners have wide price ranges. The price of these cleaners starts at $10. One of the best buying guides is to check if the quantity matches the price to avoid spending too much.
What is the difference between bore cleaner and oil?
The main difference is their functionality. It is very obvious for its name that a bore cleaner is useful in stripping unwanted remnants on the gun bore. Meanwhile, oil is used after the cleaner as it is the one that provides a protective coating in the gun.
Can I clean my gun bore too much?
Understandably, you wonder if you can clean your bore too much. As mentioned above, you can’t get a clear view of the gun bore since it is part of the gun interior. That’s why you won’t need to worry about cleaning it too much. Instead, you must prioritize ensuring you get the most suitable and effective cleaner over worrying about cleaning the gun bore too much.
What do I need in gun cleaning besides gun bore cleaner?
Indeed, some gun bore cleaners require gun cleaning patches and brushes. Aside from those gun cleaning supplies, you will also need cleaning jags, rods, and many more. If you don’t want to buy them individually, you can opt for gun cleaning kits.
How should I store my gun after cleaning and oiling it?
Before even storing your gun, you need first to unload it and separate its ammo. The ideal storage place is cool, safe, and dry to save your gun away from moisture that causes rust. Plus, the storage place must have locks to secure it, preventing accidents that can happen if you neglect to secure it. More importantly, the best position in storing a gun is by placing it horizontally or muzzle pointing down.
