best cleaning solvent for all firearms?

[Drail]

It ain't like it used to be.

 

[cdk8]

I've recently been on a kick with Hornady One Shot. I find its cleaning action to be more than enough for what I need, and like it because it provides friction reduction like the outstanding wet lubes, endurance one would expect of a dry lube, and corrosion protection not far off of that of Eezox. On my .22 rifles I put a small amount on the first section of a Bore Snake (and leave the back section dry.)

This test led me to try it

 

[valnar]

Wow. I've been using WeaponShield for a few years but after seeing that test maybe my loyalty is misplaced. I've heard a lot about Frog Lube. I'll need to give it a try!

 

[GBExpat]

I've heard a lot about Frog Lube. I'll need to give it a try!

FYI: http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2016/02/21/froglube-is-probably-made-from-coconut-oil-not-frogs/

 

[valnar]

Oops. That's what I get for not following any products for a few years.

 

[GBExpat]

Keep in mind that if it is primarily coconut oil that is not necessarily a bad thing.

Probably worth some research, though.

 

[Big7]

Most of the above is good info.

Best bang for the buck$ is take it down, soak in a shallow tub of kerosene. Don't have to be K-1.

Oil it down after a good scrubbing and put it back together.

Been working for me 40+ years.

 

[hdwhit]

I'm looking for the best do all cleaner for all types of firearms from 22lr-50cal/ML-9mm-38-223-to the big bores 45-70/44mag. [Emphasis added]

No such thing.

There are too many variables and different service environments that a firearm might be used in to label any one cleaner the "best" cleaner for all circumstances.

For my part, in the so-called mid-South and Texas, I have generally used Hoppe's #9 for nearly 40 years as a bore cleaner. When it wasn't available, I would use Sears Roebuck & Co. penetrating oil which proved to be an effective solvent. For cleaning, lubrication and preservation, I generally used Sears Roebuck & Co. light machine oil. For inaccessible locations or unusual applications, I use a quality motor oil.

 

[Dr.Rob]

Hoppes for anything but Nickel.

I made Ed's Red by the gallon when I started shooting matches. It works great. Cheap too.

CLP works well as a do-all, though I still like some high temp grease for lubing some parts.

 

[JohnKSa]

Pretty happy with MPRO-7. It's a good carbon cleaner and also seems to be decent at removing copper as long as you don't let the buildup get away from you. It has a very mild odor. It is also non-toxic--at least until you dissolve a bunch of lead-containing fouling into it while you clean.

If I had to restrict myself to only one cleaner, it would be on the short list.