[Rinehartdv]

It seems there are two basic philosophies when it comes to cleaning/lubing BP revolvers: Old school w/Crisco, etc.,. animal based.
Modern (Actually Dinosaur) based oils, etc.,.
I've read the fantastic amount of info. shared here ref. how to treat and maintain a BP firearm the "Old School" way (It seems to be alot like seasoning a cast iron skillet) and I greatly appreciate the years of experience and the time it took to share this experience. Before I take the plunge and strip/"season my revolver I would appreciate any input I can get from the folk's using the more modern cleaners and lubes. I am very excited about the BP endeavor and have to say that from what I have read here y'all are the type of folk's I would enjoy spending time with. Thank's, Ray

[Cap n Ball]

Hopps cleaner is real good but heres a recipie for a cleaner that is excellent. I have been using this since I learned it my first year of re-enacting. It works better then just peroxide or Hopps gun cleaner. You can make a gallon of it for around $5.00 And your hands are cleaned when you are finished. All you will have to to do is run two or three dry patches down the barrel. It works for muskets and revolvers as well. The small parts I soak in a wire mesh tea egg giving it a shake or two to loosen up the crud then with a fine wire brush I clean the threads and surfaces. Rinse them in warm water and dry with a soft cloth. For dissasembly use a short handled 'turn screw'. Long handled screw drivers are prone to slip out of the slot and gouge the gun or your hand.
1 Part Peroxide
1 Part Rubbing Alcohol
1 Part Murphy's Oil Soap

[TexasRifleman]

Part of the enjoyment for me is the cleaning process.

I use Bore Butter, the pine scented kind. Doesn't stink up the house at all, kinda smells good.

I use good old hot water and dishsoap. Nothing else.

Some time in the oven and coat everything with BB.

I enjoy taking the revo apart completely, cleaning each part, putting it together all lubed up.

I wish I could do the same with all my firearms. In one cleaning I learned more about the operation of my Walker and 1860 than I have in years of cleaning other firearms.

Make it fun, educational, and part of the process.

As to your question, I prefer animal based.