Ballistol or BreakFree CLP
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ApacheCoTodd
member
I can't speak to ballistol but can and enthusiastically speak against break free (BF).
Note that my experience is based upon high rate of fire and continuous usage in service weapons in the Army.
I WILL NOT TOUCH THE STUFF! (edited: ... FOR MY GUNS.)
I try to only offer this opinion once or twice a year as it tends to draw out partisan arguments from the BF fans.
When we first started using it in the Army it was presented as the end-all-be-all supposedly replacing both CLP and RBC (Cleaner, Lubricant & Protector and Rifle Bore Cleaner). For my part - it sucks as a replacement for either.
You see, it leaves a noticeable residue that kept guns from passing the rigorous inspections of D.I.s and I.G.s (Drill Instructors & Inspectors General) at the time - so for cleaning - you had to also clean IT from the gun.
Strike one!
Strikes two through NINE and in fact the ultimate game ender was later finding that our guns could become what I call "addicted" to it in combat.
Here, one might have a well *cleaned* and lubricated gun and get into a dust-up. Upon a calm moment, one could find guns growing sticky (some actually slowing during firing!
) if not outright locked up and all one could do was scramble for a bottle of BF - blast it in and work the action. Next round of excitement and calm and things only got worse.
Pitched every single bottle and started using POL (petroleum, oil & lubricants) from motor vehicles and never had a glitch.
Sure - it might be different now.
Sure, most of us are not in a position to expend out *basic-load* in short order.
I don't care - those experiences were highly unsettling and the product NEVER gets a second chance even if I'm safe and sound at a civilian range.
I would rather - and in fact have taken - the dipstick from a vehicle to get used motor oil on a gun over that BF garbage!
Todd.
Note that my experience is based upon high rate of fire and continuous usage in service weapons in the Army.
I WILL NOT TOUCH THE STUFF! (edited: ... FOR MY GUNS.)
I try to only offer this opinion once or twice a year as it tends to draw out partisan arguments from the BF fans.
When we first started using it in the Army it was presented as the end-all-be-all supposedly replacing both CLP and RBC (Cleaner, Lubricant & Protector and Rifle Bore Cleaner). For my part - it sucks as a replacement for either.
You see, it leaves a noticeable residue that kept guns from passing the rigorous inspections of D.I.s and I.G.s (Drill Instructors & Inspectors General) at the time - so for cleaning - you had to also clean IT from the gun.
Strike one!
Strikes two through NINE and in fact the ultimate game ender was later finding that our guns could become what I call "addicted" to it in combat.
Here, one might have a well *cleaned* and lubricated gun and get into a dust-up. Upon a calm moment, one could find guns growing sticky (some actually slowing during firing!
) if not outright locked up and all one could do was scramble for a bottle of BF - blast it in and work the action. Next round of excitement and calm and things only got worse.Pitched every single bottle and started using POL (petroleum, oil & lubricants) from motor vehicles and never had a glitch.
Sure - it might be different now.
Sure, most of us are not in a position to expend out *basic-load* in short order.
I don't care - those experiences were highly unsettling and the product NEVER gets a second chance even if I'm safe and sound at a civilian range.
I would rather - and in fact have taken - the dipstick from a vehicle to get used motor oil on a gun over that BF garbage!
Todd.
Last edited:
Understood,I can't speak to ballistol but can and enthusiastically speak against break free (BF).
Note that my experience is based upon high rate of fire and continuous usage in service weapons in the Army.
I WILL NOT TOUCH THE STUFF!
I try to only offer this opinion once or twice a year as it tends to draw out partisan arguments from the BF fans.
When we first started using it in the Army it was presented as the end-all-be-all supposedly replacing both CLP and RBC (Cleaner, Lubricant & Protector and Rifle Bore Cleaner). For my part - it sucks as a replacement for either.
You see, it leaves a noticeable residue that kept guns from passing the rigorous inspections of D.I.s and I.G.s (Drill Instructors & Inspectors General) at the time - so for cleaning - you had to also clean IT from the gun.
Strike one!
Strikes two through NINE and in fact the ultimate game ender was later finding that our guns could become what I call "addicted" to it in combat.
Here, one might have a well *cleaned* and lubricated gun and get into a dust-up. Upon a calm moment, one could find guns growing sticky (some actually slowing during firing!
Pitched every single bottle and started using POL (petroleum, oil & lubricants) from motor vehicles and never had a glitch.
Sure - it might be different now.
Sure, most of us are not in a position to expend out *basic-load* in short order.
I don't care - those experiences were highly unsettling and the product NEVER gets a second chance even if I'm safe and sound at a civilian range.
I would rather - and in fact have taken - the dipstick from a vehicle to get used motor oil on a gun over that BF garbage!
Todd.
That's what I needed to know very Clear
AndyUSMC1107
Member
For the past few years, I’ve been using Kano Kroil on my RF, CF and airguns and have been “well pleased.” Tho not a positive testament in any way, it was rumored that A. Hitler digested a small amount of Kroil daily...perhaps he was chronically constipated...?
DustyGmt
Member
I would choose breakfree over ballistol, but I like ballistol generally speaking. I like to use it at the range if I'm going through alot of ammo and have to hose the bolt every now and then when there is a chance I might get it on myself or have to handle it. I like that it's safer on your skin than PTFE based CLP. But as far as a cleaner and protectant, it isn't as good as BF and others. I've always had some breakfree kicking around. I think it's good stuff and is an excellent cleaner and protectant. For lubrication I like something a lil thicker like motor oil consistency. Ballistol burns off really quickly and is a lousy lubricant. BF spray is a lil better, but for high friction, high heat parts, especially in semi autos, I like a light grease or oil lubricant like Mpro7 or even hoppes oil in a pinch but there are many others that work well. SLIP EWG and EWL is excellent along with Mpro.
Also, for alot less money you can get a big can of Superlube from Wal mart or auto zone and it's loaded with PTFE, excellent protection for long term storage or high humidity, decent lube and good general purpose gun spray, but because it's got such a high concentration of Teflon you don't want to get it all over your hands and breathe it in as it's very toxic to the body and once absorbed your body can never void it back out. Ballistol is nice because it's pretty mild chemicals and not toxic to the skin....
Also, for alot less money you can get a big can of Superlube from Wal mart or auto zone and it's loaded with PTFE, excellent protection for long term storage or high humidity, decent lube and good general purpose gun spray, but because it's got such a high concentration of Teflon you don't want to get it all over your hands and breathe it in as it's very toxic to the body and once absorbed your body can never void it back out. Ballistol is nice because it's pretty mild chemicals and not toxic to the skin....
lsudave
Member
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- Feb 10, 2007
- Messages
- 1,042
I have no problem with either, or other products.
I have a fondness for Ballistol, because of the ability to dilute it with water and clean after corrosive surplus ammo. That, and the fact that it plays nicely with bare skin while cleaning.
I know it has a very strong and distinct odor; I've used it enough to associate it with a nicely cleaned and lubed gun, so it doesn't bother me. And regarding that smell- a whole lot comes from frame of mind. It can "smell like" a number of things.
I have a fondness for Ballistol, because of the ability to dilute it with water and clean after corrosive surplus ammo. That, and the fact that it plays nicely with bare skin while cleaning.
I know it has a very strong and distinct odor; I've used it enough to associate it with a nicely cleaned and lubed gun, so it doesn't bother me. And regarding that smell- a whole lot comes from frame of mind. It can "smell like" a number of things.
- If you think it smells like Anise or black licorice, it DOES.... and that makes it a pleasant experience.
- If you think it smells like sour, dirty gym clothes, it DOES... and that makes it nasty
Buzznrose
Member
Ballistol, BreakfreeCLP, motor oil, yards yada yada! Pretty much anything will work fine on 99% of the guns out there today.
I do like Ballistol because it’s never failed me for 15 years, or gone bad in storage.
Maybe if you have an old belted, you need something heavier.
Recently had a garage door installed and was given a can of this:
https://overheaddoorpartsonline.com/garage-door-lubricant/
That will be used on guns at some point and it will be fine I’m sure.
My current go to is sold at my local ORielley Auto Parts store. I like it because it is readily available and priced right:
https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/...11-ounce-gun-oil/luc0/10916?q=Lucas+CLP&pos=0
Don’t overthink it.
I do like Ballistol because it’s never failed me for 15 years, or gone bad in storage.
Maybe if you have an old belted, you need something heavier.
Recently had a garage door installed and was given a can of this:
https://overheaddoorpartsonline.com/garage-door-lubricant/
That will be used on guns at some point and it will be fine I’m sure.
My current go to is sold at my local ORielley Auto Parts store. I like it because it is readily available and priced right:
https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/...11-ounce-gun-oil/luc0/10916?q=Lucas+CLP&pos=0
Don’t overthink it.
lsudave
Member
- Joined
- Feb 10, 2007
- Messages
- 1,042
This sounds like an AR experience, as well as other posts in this thread. I'm not that experienced with that platform; I've never had to hose a bolt-action rifle or a semiauto pistol.
Ballistol is an older product, and seems more ideal for things like Mausers etc. And it works great on pistols. I also use food-safe air compressor oil (Lubriplate FMO-350 or equivalent), and think that might be better in an AR or something like that.
CapnMac
Member
Given that the CLP of today is nothing like the CLP of two decades ago, Ballistol.
Or Kroil.
Or Kroil.
entropy
Member
I can't speak to ballistol but can and enthusiastically speak against break free (BF).
Note that my experience is based upon high rate of fire and continuous usage in service weapons in the Army.
I WILL NOT TOUCH THE STUFF!
I try to only offer this opinion once or twice a year as it tends to draw out partisan arguments from the BF fans.
When we first started using it in the Army it was presented as the end-all-be-all supposedly replacing both CLP and RBC (Cleaner, Lubricant & Protector and Rifle Bore Cleaner). For my part - it sucks as a replacement for either.
You see, it leaves a noticeable residue that kept guns from passing the rigorous inspections of D.I.s and I.G.s (Drill Instructors & Inspectors General) at the time - so for cleaning - you had to also clean IT from the gun.
Strike one!
Strikes two through NINE and in fact the ultimate game ender was later finding that our guns could become what I call "addicted" to it in combat.
Here, one might have a well *cleaned* and lubricated gun and get into a dust-up. Upon a calm moment, one could find guns growing sticky (some actually slowing during firing!
Pitched every single bottle and started using POL (petroleum, oil & lubricants) from motor vehicles and never had a glitch.
Sure - it might be different now.
Sure, most of us are not in a position to expend out *basic-load* in short order.
I don't care - those experiences were highly unsettling and the product NEVER gets a second chance even if I'm safe and sound at a civilian range.
I would rather - and in fact have taken - the dipstick from a vehicle to get used motor oil on a gun over that BF garbage!
Todd.
My first M16A1 experience was with blanks, rifle liberally lubed with LSA, in December, in Minnesota. (ROTC) I got 3 rounds off semi before I had to pull the BCG out and wipe it down in the middle of a (blank) firefight. Like you with BreakFree, I was not impressed with LSA.
I 100% agree with you about it leaving a noticeable residue, and in addition, that residue kept pulling crud out of the barrel, which is why the "clean it 3 days in a row" regimen came out sometime before I enlisted. And since mine was a REMF unit, I as the Armorer had to do the other 2 days of cleaning. (Kept me from dying of boredom in the BN S-4 office.) I only experienced firing M16 (A1's again) at similar temps using BreakFree once; California rarely gets that cold, but it did snow on one of our range days in Dec. there, temp about 32F. No malfunctions due to over (or under) lubing. A few mag alabis, but that's it.
I do still use BreakFree, as well as Ballistol occasionally, though I lube my AR's with Slip2000 EWL now. I use Kroil for removing light rust, and lubing hard to reach areas.
lsudave
Member
- Joined
- Feb 10, 2007
- Messages
- 1,042
While we're on the topic of Ballistol-
Does anyone use moose milk to clean just regular guns (and then straight Ballistol for the final lube)? I know you need the water solvent to clean out corrosive residue, and everything I've read is that as it dries, the water part evaporates and leaves a film of Ballistol (preventing rust). I think most "good cleaning" is the mechanical action anyway, as brushes and swabs do a lot more than just hosing things off.
Seems like it would be an economical way to do things, as you're using the stuff in a 1:5 to 1:10 mix or thereabouts, and if you did it for every gun, doing corrosive stuff wouldn't even be out of the normal routine.
Does anyone use moose milk to clean just regular guns (and then straight Ballistol for the final lube)? I know you need the water solvent to clean out corrosive residue, and everything I've read is that as it dries, the water part evaporates and leaves a film of Ballistol (preventing rust). I think most "good cleaning" is the mechanical action anyway, as brushes and swabs do a lot more than just hosing things off.
Seems like it would be an economical way to do things, as you're using the stuff in a 1:5 to 1:10 mix or thereabouts, and if you did it for every gun, doing corrosive stuff wouldn't even be out of the normal routine.
DustyGmt
Member
I've tried lots of stuff over the years, basically everything out there has worked as advertised. It's hard to determine if one thing is really better than the other although there are some that you definitely want to stay away from,, Hoppes Oil is garbage IMO, it will pretty much lock your gun up in cold Temps. FrogLube is terrible, just stay away from it.
I have come to the conclusion that what I have on hand and what I use now, will work and last me lifetimes. Just plain old Hoppes #9 and Copper remover for general cleaning and bores.
SuperLube, ballistol or BF CLP as a base lubricant/protectant on all metal I wish not to rust.
For high friction/impact moving parts Slip EWL or Mpro7 or equivalent semi thick oil or thin grease. Grease is good, you just have to be really disciplined about applying it, you want to use it very sparingly and get it to the right place otherwise you'll make more of a mess than anything and over applying it can be more of a hindrance than a benefit.
For traveling or something a lil easier to use on the range or on the go when you don't want to haul out all your cleaning supplies, the spray CLP's are quite convenient and a small bottle of lube doesn't take up too much space.
I have come to the conclusion that what I have on hand and what I use now, will work and last me lifetimes. Just plain old Hoppes #9 and Copper remover for general cleaning and bores.
SuperLube, ballistol or BF CLP as a base lubricant/protectant on all metal I wish not to rust.
For high friction/impact moving parts Slip EWL or Mpro7 or equivalent semi thick oil or thin grease. Grease is good, you just have to be really disciplined about applying it, you want to use it very sparingly and get it to the right place otherwise you'll make more of a mess than anything and over applying it can be more of a hindrance than a benefit.
For traveling or something a lil easier to use on the range or on the go when you don't want to haul out all your cleaning supplies, the spray CLP's are quite convenient and a small bottle of lube doesn't take up too much space.
mcb
Member
All my guns get a mix of Break-Free CLP and regular higher pressure bearing grease as needed. Never had an issue with it over the years, include 15 years of competitive shooting.
I did buy a bottle Ballistol and can't really say anything good or bad for its use as I could never quite get past the smell.
Personally I think some people takes lubrication way too serious and get all wrap around the axes about brands and I think they frequently scapegoat the lubrication when there is a problem. I like Break Free, but just about any decent oil has worked fine for me, I have used regular motor oil, cutting oil, Mobile 1, and I have even used 3-in-1 in a pinch a time or two.
I did buy a bottle Ballistol and can't really say anything good or bad for its use as I could never quite get past the smell.
Personally I think some people takes lubrication way too serious and get all wrap around the axes about brands and I think they frequently scapegoat the lubrication when there is a problem. I like Break Free, but just about any decent oil has worked fine for me, I have used regular motor oil, cutting oil, Mobile 1, and I have even used 3-in-1 in a pinch a time or two.
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Jim Watson
Member
I have used Ballistol on BPCR but dislike the smell.
I haven't bought lube in years, free samples and what can be drained out of a Mobil 1 can after a car oil change are adequate.
My main reach for oil is from a large can of milsurp Oil, Lubricating and Preservative, Light bought at a gun show. It has been doctored. The last thing I bought in the snake oil wars was Miltec-1. Yawn. Then I read that it was originally a gear drive lube additive not meant to be used alone. So I dumped it in my can of surplus oil.
The most impressive free sample I have is Lucas Gun Oil.
I haven't bought lube in years, free samples and what can be drained out of a Mobil 1 can after a car oil change are adequate.
My main reach for oil is from a large can of milsurp Oil, Lubricating and Preservative, Light bought at a gun show. It has been doctored. The last thing I bought in the snake oil wars was Miltec-1. Yawn. Then I read that it was originally a gear drive lube additive not meant to be used alone. So I dumped it in my can of surplus oil.
The most impressive free sample I have is Lucas Gun Oil.
doubleh
Member
I decided to try Ballistol several years ago and bought a quart can of the stuff. It wound up in the trash because of it’s terrible smell. I don’t use CLP either. It may be the greatest thing since sliced bread but I had no problems with the products I was using when it showed so never gave it a try. Call me stuck in rut, afraid of change, whatever, I am happy with what I’m using.
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Ignition Override
Member
ApacheCoTodd:
A young guy who worked as night security at a downtown hotel in Tallahassee FL about five years ago served in USMC infantry in Iraq.
He told me that even their Freshly-Cleaned rifles would sometimes fail when in a firefight during their next patrol.
Were their Marine guns truly worn out, or did their gun cleaning/lubing product contribute to the failures he described? >> I have no idea which product they used on guns. <<
* Again, for many viewers--CLP is Not a corporate brand, it's a category.
Even Ballistol is a "CLP" (as is Froglube etc). I chose Ballistol over Breakfree mostly because Ballistol is "non-toxic", or relatively so.
A young guy who worked as night security at a downtown hotel in Tallahassee FL about five years ago served in USMC infantry in Iraq.
He told me that even their Freshly-Cleaned rifles would sometimes fail when in a firefight during their next patrol.
Were their Marine guns truly worn out, or did their gun cleaning/lubing product contribute to the failures he described? >> I have no idea which product they used on guns. <<
* Again, for many viewers--CLP is Not a corporate brand, it's a category.
Even Ballistol is a "CLP" (as is Froglube etc). I chose Ballistol over Breakfree mostly because Ballistol is "non-toxic", or relatively so.
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ApacheCoTodd
member
ApacheCoTodd
member
I've seen a LOT of very well-used U.S.M.C. guns but never one truly worn out.
I'd suspect too much lube of whatever kind + dust/mud.
Todd.
Ironicaintit
Member
I still have a 1/3 of a gallon of the original formula of Breakfree CLP that I use sometimes. It works fine, but I usually use it for rusted hardware, gearhead type stuff.
What’s usually close at hand is what I use most, and lately it’s been Tetra oil.
Superlube works good too, but for aerosol type stuff I like Tri-flow.
What’s usually close at hand is what I use most, and lately it’s been Tetra oil.
Superlube works good too, but for aerosol type stuff I like Tri-flow.
ApacheCoTodd
member
That's kinda funny. Given my above post about the stuff, it might be surprising to know that I have most of a gallon left that a friend had given me. Rather than be ungracious, I kept it.
It gets used on things like my old Cub Cadet lawn tractor, trailer shackles and the like.
Todd.
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