Using motor oil on guns.

[stchman]

I read a forum thread a while back and it talked of using motor oil as gun lube. At a price point, it's definitely a LOT less expensive.

I've been using motor oil for a while now and it seems to work just fine. It definitely sticks to where you put it. When I wipe any excess off there is a nice clear film left.

Any thoughts.

 

[Schwing]

I personally don't use it but there is no reason it shouldn't work. If it can withstand the heat in an engine, the heat in your firearm is not going to break it down. For long term storage, I would have to do more research.

 

[John828]

I use it exclusively.

 

[ScottS]

I switched to Mobil1 some time ago for all my AR lube needs. Stays "wet" much longer than other lubes I had been using. Thin without being runny. I use 0-40W, mostly because that's what I've always used in my Audi.

I think you'll find a lot of folks have been using synthetic motor oil for quite some time.

 

[XD Fan]

I have heard of people recommending bearing grease for ARs, but it makes me a little nervous about the collection of gunk. Had not heard of using motor oil.

 

[tekarra]

I use it regularly.

 

[Potatohead]

I've used Automatic Transmission Fluid before and was really happy with it.
The only reason I stopped is because a rep from Sig told me they dont recommend anything not made for a gun to be used for a lubricant. Not really surprising, they all toe that line probably.

 

[H.m.B]

When I was in the Army we used motor oil on our M16A1's. Seemed to work fine. I use CLP now but have thought about using motor oil. Question I have would be; synthetic or regular?

 

[Ohio Gun Guy]

Another Mobil 1 user here. Will use regular if on hand as well.

 

[mnhntr]

Yep Mobile 1 for me too

 

[Spats McGee]

I realized not long ago that I had a few quarts of 5W-30 sitting around and gave it a try. Seemed to work just fine.

 

[SleazyRider]

Cheapskate

After changing the oil in my cars, I overturn the "empty" cans to drain every last drop into a clean container overnight. Then I put the oil into plastic syringes, the kind used as glue applicators. You'd be surprised at how much oil is leftover in 5 cans---enough to lube my guns for several years.

 

[breakingcontact]

I have heard of people recommending bearing grease for ARs, but it makes me a little nervous about the collection of gunk. Had not heard of using motor oil.

Grease on an AR = no go.

 

[stchman]

I am still using a bottle of Walmart Supertech synthetic I bought years ago.

 

[Armor Snail]

Synthetic for lube.

Mobil 1.



Ed's Red for cleaning

 

[XD Fan]

What would be the disadvantages?

 

[rcmodel]

None.

If you can get past the smell of some of it.

rc

 

[VA27]

I've used Mobil 1, STP and ATF. The only downside I've found besides the smell is that any stains on clothing are difficult to remove.

 

[blarby]

Mobil 1 full synthetic 0w20

Fantastic stuff.

Leaves that perfect gunny smell, if you ask me. Seems to keep all the bits nice and lubed. AR loves it especially.

 

[midland man]

I use 3in1 oil been for years and works fine here! never tried motor tho but may have to see about that!

 

[RustyShackelford]

Guns.....

I prefer not to use industrial oils/greases or auto industry lubricants in my weapons but many gun owners/cops/hunters do.
I like Ballistol, FrogLube & Hoppes #9, .
Prices are super bad. FrogLube is not cheap compared to other brands but I don't go thru gallons of it.

I'm madder about the US milk prices than CLPs/gun care products.

 

[tactikel]

How wet do you run? I use CLP, a few spritzes to keep the all moving parts damp, not dripping. Am I using enough to prevent premature wear?

 

[FireInCairo]

Transmission fluid works well as it doesn't smoke easy because of the high heat tolerance. I've been using it for a couple years. I still have the same quart I bought and have hardly put a dent in it.

 

[stchman]

I prefer not to use industrial oils/greases or auto industry lubricants in my weapons but many gun owners/cops/hunters do.
I like Ballistol, FrogLube & Hoppes #9, .

Hoppe's #9 is a powder solvent, not a lubricant.

 

[il.bill]

If you are going to use automotive oil, I believe that a full synthetic would be best. I prefer Mobil 1 in whatever weight is on hand. Works really well, even in below freezing temperatures.