Are you on a quest to find the best gun cleaning kits at costco, target, walmart or amazon?
Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of models to bring you the best gun cleaning kits.
In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.
- Product Details
- 4 Reasons Why It Is So Important To Maintain And Clean Your Gun
- Gun Cleaning Kits Buying Guide
- Handy Accessories For Gun Cleaning
- …
I will also answer some common questions.
- How To Keep Your Firearm Clean Using A Kit? (Video)
- How should You store your weapon after cleaning it?
- How Long Does It Take You To Clean Your Gun?
- …
Without further ado, let’s begin!
Best Gun Cleaning Kits Comparison Table
Best Universal Gun Cleaning Kits
Best Handgun, Shotgun & Rifle Gun Cleaning Kits
The Best Gun Cleaning Kits
- Otis Technology The Otis Elite
- Gun Cleaning Kit Ohuhu Hand Gun, Rifle & Shot Gun Cleaning Kits Tool Set with Carrying Case
- Remington Hunting Cleaning and Maintenance Kit
- Outers 70084 25 – Piece Universal Wood Gun Cleaning Tool Chest (.22 Caliber and up)
- Hoppe’s Universal Gun Cleaning Accessory Kit
- Real Avid .223/5.56 Pro Pack – Premium 223 5.56 MSR Cleaning Tool Kit
- Hoppe’s No. 9 Cleaning Kit with Aluminum Rod, .38/.357 Caliber, 9mm Pistol
- Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Kit – for .22, .357, 9MM, .38, .40, .44, and .45 caliber handguns
- Otis Tactical Cleaning System- Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun
- Real Avid Gun Boss Universal Cable – 12 & 20 gauge, .17 – .45 caliber pull-through gun cleaning kit
Main tools included in a Gun Cleaning Kit
Top 5 Best Universal Gun Cleaning Kits
Universal gun cleaning kits are the most popular since all you need is a single kit to clean all your firearms. If you are not sure whether a particular kit can clean your firearm we have included the caliber of brushes for every kit. Universal kits are designed to clean about 95% of firearms including common handguns, shotguns, and rifles.
The ideal universal gun cleaning kit is one that has high quality components that don’t break under the stress of heavy duty use. We have taken time to evaluate all of the popular universal gun cleaning kits currently available in the market and narrowed down the list to just 5. It was an almost impossible task since there are numerous good brands out there but 5 of them clearly stand out from the rest.
1. Otis Technology The Otis Elite – Editor’s Choice: Best Gun Cleaning Kit
- Over 40 firearm-specific Cleaning components in a nylon case
- (6) memory-flex cables of varying length for effective and correct Breech-to-Muzzle Cleaning
- (22) bronze bore brushes Remove Copper deposits and other fouling
- Six (6) Memory-Flex Cables of varying length for effective and correct Breech-to-Muzzle cleaning
The Otis Elite Gun Cleaning Kit is what you need if you value patriotism over price. It is made in the USA and is a one-stop shop when it comes to gun cleaning essentials as well as high-end materials for getting the job done.
The Otis Elite comes with all the things that you can possibly every need to clean all the firearms. It is targeted towards advanced gun owners and includes a comprehensive collection of cleaning tools you can find in any gun cleaning kit.
The Otis Elite comes with six Memory-Flex cables instead of multi-piece rods. The cables are of different lengths and have been coated to prevent bore damage. A smooth pull strength of 750 pounds means that you never have to worry about snapping.
The bronze brushes are of very high-quality construction and the caliber is engraved into the rod’s base. One of the key problems faced by most gun owners is how to clean the copper residue inside firearm barrels. The brushes on the Otis Elite are ideal for that purpose. If you unfortunately break any brush, you can find replacements for just several dollars.
Each kit comes with 22 bore brushes. While it might seem like overkill for a person looking for a simple gun cleaning kit, you need to understand that when Otis says that it has thought of everything to meet the needs of all gun owners, they actually mean it. Each of the caliber-specific brushes is color-coded and the size indicated on its stem. The brushes not only have a denser bristle pack, but also have a corrosive-resistant Tufcor core as well as a tighter twist for improved brush life and bristle retention.
The carrying bag is made of high-quality nylon while the zipper is of very high quality. The carrying case is the only one thing that possibly requires some improvement. The vast majority of people seem to prefer a durable hard cased bag that’s more durable, but the nylon bags are perfectly fine for others. You can carry the bag using the shoulder strap instead of carrying it using the handle like the hard box kits.
2. Gun Cleaning Kit Ohuhu Hand Gun, Rifle & Shot Gun Cleaning Kits Tool Set with Carrying Case – The Most Affordable Gun Cleaning Kit
- [Universal Fit] - Whatever gun type you have, you can bet that this universal cleaning kit has the components you need to clean everything properly. Use it on pistols, rifles, shotguns, muzzle-loaders and any other type of firearm. NOTE:.38 .357 & 9mm are essentially the same size. Rest assured to use, will not damage your barrel. Package includes .38 .357 & 9mm brush!
- [Premium Brass Components] - Built to serve, made to last. Constructed from heavy-duty brass parts, the rods, jags and adapters are much more durable than other plastic counterparts. Plus, the screw-on design makes sure parts stay tightly connected.
- [Deluxe Cleaning Set] - Get ahead with the Ohuhu gun cleaning kit, which includes everything you need for firearm proper maintenance. Includes a lightweight, sturdy suitcase for holding the cleaning implements, and is convenient for bringing to the firing range or on hunting trips.
- [Organized Carrying Case] - Keep your tools organized, whether you're at home or on the road. Open it from the side that has the Ohuhu logo so you don't accidentally open it upside-down, and once inside, you can keep things in their proper place with the caliber labels, which are on the suitcase and accessories.
- [After-sales Service] - Buy confidently knowing there is a lifetime & money back guarantee, as well as excellent after sales service! If you have any problems while using, please feel free to contact us, we are willing to help you.
The great thing about the Ohuhu 28-piece Universal Gun Cleaning Kit that’s eye-catching is the heavy-duty aluminum casing that packs all the accessories and tools for keeping your highly valued possessions in great condition. While the kit comes in a stylish aluminum case, some people don’t like the idea of it only opening to just 90 degrees.
The double latches, easy carry handle, and foam padding inside that keeps the content perfectly safe and secure from the elements all help to complement its efficiency. With the compartmentalized storage space, storing becomes a breeze while ensuring that they are properly organized for quick access as well as retrieval.
The kit also comes with an impressive collection of easy cleaning brushes that include cotton brushes while the rods are properly sorted for quick and easy retrieval as well as storage with dedicated space for both pistols and shotguns as well as heavy caliber rifles. The cleaning rods might not be of the highest quality, but users have complained that they sometimes bend and break.
The kit is overall much better than expected and has just about everything required for regular firearms. The kit’s quality is slightly below average when compared to the best gun cleaning kits. It is great for beginners who are starting out and don’t like the idea of spending a lot of money on a cleaning kit.
3. Remington Hunting Cleaning and Maintenance Kit
– Best Remington Gun Cleaning Kit
- Rem Squeeg-E removes all dislodged barrel debris in just one pass
- Sturdy, coated Rem Flex Rod Cables help protect barrel finish
- Machine-washable Rem Pad (28"" x 12") velcro'ed in the bag protects surface and stores easily
- Rem All In Bore Cleaner offers high-performance on carbon, plastic, lead and copper fouling
- Essential Tools: 2 large cleaning brushes, brush revolver adapter and gun cloth
In the world of firearms, Remington is a household name. You probably actually own at least 1 Remington gun. The company not only makes great firearms but also amazing gun cleaning kits. With regards to universal gun cleaning kits, Remington took that into consideration to come up with the best kit that includes everything required for cleaning a gun. Everything from gun oil and bore cleaner to a cleaning mat and towel. Remington offers one of the most comprehensive cleaning kits.
Users really love how it is possible to store everything in a single bag so that when you need to clean your gun, all you have to do it grab a single bag for everything. To top it all off, the cleaning mat, while it isn’t the best one currently on the market, it is still a great add to the it. The kit can Velcro right to the bags drop down zipper, which makes it easy to clean and place tools back into their corresponding location in the bag.
All the attachments and tools come labeled with their bore or caliber size, which makes it easier to grab the right tool for the gun you would like to clean. One of the outstanding features of Remington tools is the unique cleaning ends. The company calls it the Squeeg-E tips that you run through the barrel after you scrub using a brush.
4. Outers 70084 25 – Piece Universal Wood Gun Cleaning Tool Chest (.22 Caliber and up) – Best Wood Gun Cleaning kit
- Attractive aged-oak finished wood construction
- Universal components to cover cleaning duties for a Large variety of firearms
- Strong, solid brass rods with high-quality tips, mops and brushes
- Attractive aged-oak finished wood construction
- Universal components to cover cleaning duties for a large variety of firearms
The Outers 70084 is one of the best-looking gun cleaning sets in the market. Based on aesthetics only, this aged oak wooden kit is one that you’ll love owning and one that will make you look forward to cleaning your firearms. It is exactly what you need if you are looking for a gun cleaning box. It comes with a wooden box of dimensions 12 by 6 by 6 inches. The cleaning kit and box weight about 6 pounds.
The kit’s main compartment offers a low of storage space for storing ammunition or other supplies and is an excellent accessory to the kit. The slotted inside allows 2 pieces found on the lid’s inside bottom to fit into the main compartment thus making a vise that can hold your shotgun or rifle.
The kit contains universal components that allow for easy cleaning of a wide assortment of firearms from rifles to pistols and shotguns. The rods are made of brass and have high-quality tips and even include brushes and mops. The wooden chest tool is classy-looking and has enough space within it for easy storage of cleaning accessories and supplies of all kinds.
The cleaning kit is fairly good, but it is worth noting that it comes with plastic patch loops. The bronze brushes do a great job. However, the kit should have been equipped with gun oil or solvent, but you can find those easily locally.
5. Hoppe’s Universal Gun Cleaning Accessory Kit – Best Seller
- Sport type: Hunting
- Universal gun cleaning accessory kit
- 3-piece universal aluminum cleaning rods
- Includes 5 swabs and 4 slotted ends
- 9 phosphor aluminum brushes fit variety of calibers
This amazing all purpose, heavy duty gun cleaning kit comes from Hoppe’s, which is a trusted brand. It is designed for use with weapons of different types as well as different-sized barrels. Instead of having to invest in a cleaning kit for each bore and caliber size, you can invest in this inexpensive universal kit from Hoppe’s.
The Hoppe’s Universal Kit includes a 3-piece cleaning rod that’s long enough to fit long barrel shotguns. It also includes cotton swabs, bronze brushes, and slotted ends for cleaning patches for just about all traditional caliber size in pistols, shotguns, and rifle bore sizes. Just like with other kits, being universal doesn’t mean that it contains everything. So, you might still require a one-off bore brush as well as some cleaning solvent, but the kit does an excellent job of covering the bases with regards to cleaning tools.
The attachments are of great quality and users haven’t reported experiencing any issues with the brushes either wearing out or bending after cleaning out guns. The kit comes with washable cotton bore swabs, which is quite impressive since they can easily get dirty and black. The cost of the kit is actually lower compared to investing in 2 unique caliber cleaning sizes. It is worth noting that the kit only comes with tools, which means that you will have to buy oils and solvents separately.
If you are in need of a gun cleaning kit of decent quality without having to spend too much, this kit by Hoppe’s is an excellent option. It might not be the best for avid gun aficionados, but it is great for people that shoot occasionally.
Top 5 Best Handgun, Shotgun & Rifle Gun Cleaning Kits
Universal kits can be used with a range of different firearms but because they have a lot of components for use with those different weapons they tend to be too large to conveniently take on the road or even to the firing range. That’s why we decided to take a look at gun cleaning kits that are smaller and more practical to take in the field. Below we will provide a list of kits for rifles and handguns.
As part of our investigation, we reviewed hundreds of comments and looked at the top kits that are available to come up with our top 5 list. When you’re going through them you want to remember that you’ll need to double check the caliber to make sure the one you’re wanting can be used with your particular firearm. Those who pick up a kit without making sure it can be used with their caliber gun may end up with one that doesn’t have some things that are necessary.
6. Real Avid .223 Gun Boss – Editor’s Choice: Best seller & Best AR Cleaning Kit
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Although this kit is not made to be the primary one you use, it is a good choice to use on the range or in the field. It can fit in your back pocket and is made from nylon. Every one of the tools in the kit will be held down either by rubber bands or by snapping into place. This kit cannot be used to clean all different types of guns but it is a great choice for rifles. In particular, it is good for .223 and 5.56 calibers.
One of the things that most people like about the kit is how compact it is. Its nylon case is made to fit in your hand and could be taken anywhere. That makes it especially suitable for the range and in the field or other places where a larger kit would be inconvenient. It comes with 7 rods made of brass and each one can be connected together to extend the total reach to 33 in. This means if you have a long-barrel rifle then you can clean it easily. The two brushes can detach and be removed and added at will.
The one thing that may disappoint you is that it doesn’t come with any oil or solvent. It does include 50 cleaning patches though. It’s really easy to find oil and solvent with a good price at Lucky Gunner or Brownells as well as at many local stores. For this reason, the absence of these items from the kit shouldn’t stop you from picking one up.
It is by far the best cleaning kit for those who have a .223 or 5.56 caliber rifle. All the pieces in the kit are great quality and made mostly of brass and the price is moderate. This kit will no doubt last for many years and endure the wear and tear you put it through.
7. Hoppe’s No. 9 Cleaning Kit with Aluminum Rod, .38/.357 Caliber, 9mm Pistol – Best Gun Cleaning Kit 9mm
- Plastic storage box
- Hoppe's No. 9 cleaning kit with aluminum rod
- Includes one 2 ounce bottle cleaning solvent and one 2.25 ounce lubricating oil
- Brush for the intended caliber is included with this kit
- Intended for .38, .357 and 9 millimeter pistols
Most who get this cleaning kit for their 9mm will find it works well for them. The maker of this is well trusted inside the gun cleaning market. You’ll find that it has everything you need to clean your 9mm including a brush, patches, liquid cleaner, rod, and lubricant. The aluminum cleaning rod is made to last for many years. You’ll also find that there’s an end to end cleaning rod and a brush along with the lubricant and liquid cleaner.
This kit includes a cleaning rod made of aluminum, it includes a handle that is well made and is likely to last for many years. It also has a brush and 2 end pieces that are part of the cleaning rod. You can clean your barrel well with this because of the long length of the handle. The bristles are just firm enough so that they will do a great job cleaning the weapon without doing any damage to the barrel.
When you’re on the go you’ll find it very handy to have the cleaning patches that come with the kit. They will almost certainly last a long time because the patches are great quality. Inside the kit you will find a 4-ounce bottle of cleaning solvent along with a two and a quarter ounce bottle of lubrication oil. This will help keep the gun clean and keep it working the way it’s supposed to. For the budget conscious, this is definitely one of the best kits for a 9mm.
This kit has everything needed to do a great job and is priced reasonably. The cleaning lubrication liquid comes in small bottles and will likely only clean the gun 2 or 3 times. This means you might want to consider getting larger bottles of those items. The maker of this kit has very good products but this particular one is most especially designed for those who do not use their weapon on a regular basis.
8. Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Kit – for .22, .357, 9MM, .38, .40, .44, and .45 caliber handguns – Best Gun Cleaning Kit for Glock
- MULTI-CALIBER Pistol cleaning kit works with any .22 pistol, 9mm handgun, 357 magnum, .38 special, 40 caliber, 41 caliber, 44 magnum & 45 caliber.
- GUN BOSS Handgun cleaning kit Includes: 2 section gun cleaning rod with t-handle, bore brush set, bore patch jag set, 2 small & large slotted bore patch tips and gun cleaning patches.
- COMPATIBLE as a Glock cleaning kit, SIG Sauer cleaning kit, S&W M&P Shield, M&P 2.0, SD9VE, SD40VE, Beretta, 1911 cleaning kit and more. Gun Boss Handgun has all cleaning supplies for modern handguns, revolvers and 1911 pistols.
- CONVENIENT Compact, portable, well-organized in a zippered, weatherproof pouch which stores easily and fits in your range bag. This all-in-one pistol maintenance kit is all you need for fast gun cleaning at home or at the range.
- QUALITY Ergonomic design, professional grade phosphor bronze brushes, nylon bore jags and highly absorbent gun cleaning patches; all components are long lasting and well-organized, so you spend less time cleaning and more time shooting.
This kit is for those with a .22, .357, .38, .40, .44, or a .45 caliber handgun. This particular kit by Real Avid is a great choice for any Glock model. It has two swivel tip connectors as well as two rods. The T handle is removable and can be attached to either side. They have a 9-inch reach that makes cleaning hassle-free.
The bore brushes are phosphor bronze and come in four different sizes so they can be used in all caliber of handguns. It also has nylon jacks. There are slotted tips and 50 patches to help keep the gun clean. The patches even come in two different sizes. Everything is found inside its nylon carrying case that closes with a zipper. It is made to be weatherproof so that it is a good choice for the field.
The Gun Boss handgun kit is water resistant and the best option for someone going to the range. The case keeps the tools protected and it can be kept in the car even during winter because the cold temperatures won’t be able to crack anything and it is protected from the bumping that occurs while driving. Anyone with a Glock will find this is definitely the best kit. It’s very convenient to take to the range and to the field and has everything needed to keep your gun in good shape.
9. Otis Tactical Cleaning System- Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun – Best Pistol & Rifle Cleaning Kit
- Universal Cleaning: Complete kit for rifles, pistols, and shotguns, ensuring thorough maintenance for all firearms.
- Precision Brushes: Six firearm-specific bronze bore brushes with marked sizes for precise cleaning.
- Compact and Portable: Neatly packed in a soft pack case for easy storage and transport, ideal for shooters on the go.
- Breech-to-Muzzle: Includes aircraft grade Memory-Flex cables for proper end to end cleaning.
- Versatile Accessories: Small and large obstruction removers for clearing debris, enhancing functionality.
When you need a highly capable gun cleaning kit and yet you still need it to be portable, then this one by Otis is the choice you’re looking for. This has a total of 6 brushes each made for a different caliber of gun including .17 to .50 caliber.
Often gun owners will have a difficult time with copper deposits and filings that are left in the barrel and the brushes in this kit help eliminate that problem. These brushes are designed to help gun owners clean their shotguns, pistols, and rifles. Regardless of the type of gun you own, this kit will give you everything you need to keep it cleaned and maintained.
Regardless of the type of barrel blockages you have or jammed cases, the tool for removing obstructions in the kit will help resolve these problems. The cleaning rods have memory flex with tensile strength that is over 750 lbs. Because of its size, you can conveniently carry it with you in a gun bag. The brushes will allow any gun owner to clean their gun thoroughly and maintain it in a detailed manner. Many gun enthusiast rely on this kit for their guns while in the field.
10. Real Avid – Shotgun Cleaning Kit (12 & 20 Gauge) – Best Shotgun Cleaning Kit
- ✔【Easy cleaning】Pull through cable works great for no hassle, no disassembly gun cleaning; perfect for lever action rifles or models with complicated takedown. Allows you to spend more time shooting, less time working and maintaining your firearms
- ✔【17-Piece cleaning kit】Phosphor bronze brushes, nylon bore jags, mops, 3 nylon slotted tips, shotgun bore brushes and highly absorbent gun cleaning patches for .22 caliber .270 caliber, .30 caliber, 9mm / .38 & .357 caliber, .45 caliber, 12 gauge and 20 gauge
- ✔【 Gun snake alternative】An effective alternative to traditional gun snakes, this kit includes a pull-thru cable for convenient and efficient gun cleaning - a must have addition to your gun accessories
- ✔【 Gun cleaning kit universal 】Design was created with a purpose to have all-in-one solution to maintain your handguns, shotguns and hunting rifles. Smartly organized in a portable case that easily fits into a gun range bag
- ✔【 Unmatched versatility】 Gun cleaning kits don't usually give you this many options for cleaning. Whether you are at home, at the range or looking to clean to your hunting gear on the go, our kit has your covered
For a universal kit, this is very small but it’s so good we couldn’t pass up talking about it here. It has more than one tool for cleaning shotguns. In fact, it has nine cleaning brushes, a cleaning Jag, and a cleaning swab for different weapons. As well as cleaning and number of different shotguns it can also be used for different calibers.
It’s one of only a few different kits that have tools for a shotgun. It comes with a hard case that is well-designed and most users have no complaints with this kit which is very rare. A lot of gun owners hate poorly made cases but this one is bulletproof.
It has two cleaning mops made for 12 and 20 gauge shotguns. They’re excellent and can remove almost anything from the barrel of the shotgun with only a couple of passes. For the price, it’s almost certainly the best shotgun cleaning kit that you’ll find anywhere. This kit will not only clean your shotguns, it will clean almost any other handgun or rifle. Because of the rod design that comes in this kit it is very compact which makes it easy to take to the range or when traveling.
4 Reasons Why It Is So Important To Maintain And Clean Your Gun
Your gun is like other tools, it must be maintained in order to operate in the way it has been designed to. Any gun, whether it is a daily carry self-defense gun, your great grandfather’s old Winchester, or a range toy, must be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. The following are the main reasons with some explanation for each one on why it is important to take the time and make sure you know how to clean your guns properly. Of course other than being able to intimidate the boy that your daughter has just started dating.
1. Longevity
Simple cleaning and maintenance will ensure that your guns lasts not for years, but for generations. Have you ever heard of people talking about how their shotgun came from their great grandfather? The reason why the gun lasted that long was due to the fact that it was well taken care of. The person who owned the gun didn’t shoot it and then throw it down into a damp, dirty basement and leave it there for 20 years.
A basic oiling, cleaning and storing your gun inside of a safe or case can help to preserve the weapon for a very long time. Remember, guns with wooden stocks, handles or inserts will need some extra care and maintenance. Depending on the kind of wood it is, you may use a polish or wax look you would use on furniture made of wood.
2. Know How Guns Work
You might not have a strong interest in knowing what happens to allow the bullet to exit out of the chamber of a Glock. However, when you clean and maintain your gun it can help you become familiar with the way a gun works. It will teach you how the various parts interact with one another.
Some guns are a lot more complex to disassemble, clean and then reassemble. Some handguns such as Glocks allow you to field strip them every easily. It isn’t necessary for you to be an expert gunsmith. However, knowing how to field strip a gun, and oil and clean them, is good to know how to do.
3. Learn How to Lubricate Guns
It isn’t always a good thing to have more lubrication when maintaining a gun. When there is too much lubrication on your gun’s moving parts, there will be certain issues like excessive build up of dirt. Dirt build up may cause Failure to Fire (FTF) and light primer strikes.
Failure to Eject (FTE) may occur whenever the lube ends up working its way inside of the guns parts and magazine which send the round from the magazine into the chamber. There will be malfunctions if it resembles a Slip-N-Slide inside there.
4. Reliability and Safety
After practicing shooting with your self defense gun, make sure to clean it. Whenever you pull the trigger you are betting on your life that the gun works. If there is rust of the barrel or there is crud building up in areas that are over lubricated, it may be the final mistake that you make.
Gun Cleaning Kits Buying Guide
When you are looking at buying a gun cleaning kit you need to consider several factors. The first is how many guns do you need to clean? What are the caliber of the guns? How often are you going to need to clean the guns? Do you have your guns in an muddy or dirty area? To make a great choice you should read the buying guide that is below.
* Cost
This sis one consideration you should watch out for and that is the cost of the cleaning kit. You may think the expensive kits are the best ones for you to buy. This could have some problems though and may not always be true.
Cheap models are one thing that you will want to avoid buying. We have put in a lower costing model in the reviews , so you can read it, but that is for reference only as the brushes are often breakable plastic and the brush is soft. You do not want to have that, you need to have a durable brush you can use multiple times. You will also find that they usually come with a 3-piece brass rod that does not go together very well. Since this does not fit together very well they have a tendency to start to fall apart and have some issues in getting the cleaning done. You will want to make sure you have a strong rod that will make it easier for you to get the debris removed. The other aspect is the lower priced models only offer a very limited amount of brushes. You may even thin that you are getting a universal kit, but in reality it will only fit 3 calibers and you only own one of those caliber guns. The cleaning jags, that you need are usually easy to break and made from a poor grade plastic. In fact, you could end up breaking the majority of the kit putting it together.
Medium Priced Models are the type that we are going to cover in most of the reviews. These are still a group that can have some bad models, mediocre models, and some that are going to be great. You can find some of the models that will only have metal brushes and not have any type of plastic brushes at all. These also will have the option to get metal picks and mops so you can use them time and time again. You will find this is also the models that have a tendency to have the best efficiency and handling for the brushes you are getting. Some of these will even have a users manual so if you are just starting out it will work perfect for you.
The high end models are ones that are expensive and we tried to avoid including any of these on our list. We did include one of these that is higher than the average price so you can have it for reference. The higher priced models do tend to have patented technologies that are meant for the guns they are cleaning. These also are very easy to use and tend to be quite a bit better quality which will help it last longer and it is easy to pack. However, not all of these are going to be better than the medium priced models. You may find that the extra cost gives you a great looking case, but only an average style of cleaning set. If you are just starting out you do not want to get an expensive set. You will be better off buying a medium priced set and learning off of it.
* Materials Used
The materials that you are going to find being used in these have a tendency to let you know about the quality of the kit. You will want to make sure you are aware of the material inside of the kit if you are thinking about buying a kit.
Almost all plastic – These are the kits that are going to have almost everything made from plastic and they will give you some problems. The plastic does have a tendency to break really quickly. You may find some of the models will even have a plastic rod inside of them. This rod may be better for the barrel at times because it does not scratch as bad as a bronze or brass rod, but that is the only good feature. The bad thing is these do tend to have a spiraled end and when you attach the brushes they will start to lose the striations after a couple of uses. Often when you are pushing the plastic brushes in the barrel they tend to bend and break. What is really bad is the cleaning jags have a tendency to break very easily.
Plastic and Metal – These are going to be a combination of a kit, but you could have to look for a long time before finding this type of a kit. Most o the manufacturers have a tendency to make plastic jags and brushes because these are the pieces that are going to need to be bought more often. Since these pieces need to be in constant motion and are bent often they are going to break quickly. Even the threaded cleaning tips that hold the patches on are made out of plastic and even with the rod being made from brass or bronze it can break. This will easily lead to multiple problems when you are trying to get the cleaning pads attached to the rod and because the brass and bronze is harder on the plastic it makes them break faster. With this being the case you will have to be very careful when you are using these rods.
Mostly Metal cleaning kits are going to be some of the best kits you can find and almost all of the components are made from metal. You will find these models will be in the higher to medium price category. You can look in the higher price, but you will want to make sure you have experience what to look for in the gun cleaning kits. You will want to know that you will have a great feeling when you are cleaning your gun and feel the metal double-ended cleaning pick on the metal brushes. These kits are durable and do the job. Not only will they do the job right, they tend to last for a longer time period.
* Accessories
Almost all of the manufacturers try to produce different types of accessories for the cleaning kit. These can be useful, but sometimes they are nothing more than an item to buy. So what kind of accessory is useful?
The right substances are going to be a key item that you need to apply if you want to clean your gun properly. You will need to get a solvent that can remove the lead, carbon, and other items. You will also find the degreasing agent will do great at removing oil and dirt from the moving parts. You will find lubricants work great at keeping the parts from rusting. You will want to make sure you get a lubricant that works great against corrosion and will repel water.
Patches are something that you will need for almost every gun cleaning kit. These are definitely needed, with the exception of when the manufacturer says you do not need them. These tend to be made from cotton and you will need to run a clean one in the bore every time you made a pass through the bore with the rod. You will not want to use the same patch twice. These are not that expensive and you can use these to clean other parts of the gun to. You will want to make sure you coat one with solvent when you pass through the bore before you brush out the gun.
The Jag or Loop – are the parts that the companies give you to attach the cleaning pads and other items to on the cleaning rod. You will find these come in different styles as well. The jag will hold the cleaning patch with the point on its end, the loop is going to hold it like you would get a needle threaded. You need these to properly clean the inside of your barrel. You will want to only pick brass or bronze. You will never want to get a plastic jag or loop as they break easily.
Brushes are something that you will find in almost all the cleaning kits, but you want to make sure you get a metal brush and never get a plastic brush. The plastic brushes break really quickly. The bronze brushes will do really well, but their metal is weaker than the bore which reduces the chance of scratching the bore. Nylon brushes can be used if you are doing some light cleaning. The brushes do wear down over time so you will need to keep in mind replacement brushes.
A bore guide is something else that you may want to consider as it will guide the rod down the middle of the bore so it will not cause any damage. You may not find this needed, but it will help in cleaning.
Gun cleaning pads are something else that are going to be nice as these will prevent the oils and solvents from getting onto the workspace. You can even wash this in the washer after you are done. You do not need it, but it definitely makes cleanup a breeze.
* Portability
The ideal kit for you should be one that’s portable, even if you don’t plan to be cleaning your weapons at the range or in the forest. You should be capable of moving it around without any problems. The number of options available is staggering, but which one is the best?
Toolbox: Everyone has a half-empty or completely empty toolbox lying around the garage. You should consider using it to carry all the cleaning accessories. It could be a great short-term solution if the main box is broken for whatever reason, but it isn’t a great idea in the long run. You will waste a lot of time looking through it to find the smaller pieces that you need. Toolboxes are typically made of steel or tin. While steel is capable of withstanding damage done by some of the solvents used in gun cleaning, it probably won’t. The other drawback associated with using a toolbox for this purpose is that it can damage your accessories considering that some are made out of bronze or brass. Bronze is much weaker compared to steel, which means that if the brushes push against the steel wall of the toolbox while moving it around could be disastrous for the brushes. Some of the pieces may also be made out of plastic. If they are not strapped in place firmly, then the plastic might break. You might just make a slightly fast turn only to find yourself without some of the components.
Wooden Box: A good number of the models presented in the reviews come in wooden boxes. It is one of the most debated subjects and all aspects will be presented here. Having a wooden box that neatly compartmented makes it easier to find the accessories you need fast. Wood is a material that won’t react with any of the materials commonly used for manufacturing the pieces. The only problem that you are likely to face in that area is having loose plastic pieces inside the box. It might break, but this is true for just about any type of box. A real problem that you are likely to encounter is the damage and stains made by the solvents. They can be incredibly unmerciful to wood. Oil leaks stain wood permanently and it can mean having oily pieces all over. Solvents equally cause damage to wood.
Synthetic Material: Synthetic materials don’t interact with plastic, brass, or bronze. However, synthetic materials still get stained by solvents and oils.
* Number of Pieces
The more the pieces the higher the number of calibers that can be cleaned with that particular kit. It is how it usually goes. What should you choose then? Is it more preferable to have fewer pieces at the start and adapt as you continue buying new hardware, or should you have a large number from the start? While a vast majority of manufacturers offer a large number of working pieces, some offers a smaller amount and a higher number of adjustment pieces.
10 – 12 pieces: They are typically the smallest universal cleaning kits and are typically recommended to beginners. You can get them at lower prices compared to larger ones and are often enough to get the work done. However, you need to keep some things in mind: Avoid going for the cheaper ones. You might spend less buying one, but you will probably not use it for long, which means that you won’t get to learn how to clean a gun the right way. Avoid models with many plastic components, particularly those with plastic brushes, loops, and jags. Ensure that your weapon’s caliber is one of the calibers that the kit was intended for. 10 to 12-piece models are usually compatible with .22 and .30 caliber rifles, 12 and 20-gauge shotguns, and .38 caliber pistols. If the caliber of your weapon is not among the ones specified by the manufacturer, you can try looking for a different model or try finding the proper accessories from that same manufacturer. Manufacturers typically don’t charge a lot for a single adjustment in caliber, particularly for the popular ones such as the 9mm.
28-Piece Kits: 28-piece kits generally offer more versatility compared to the 10 to 12-piece kits. They are able to fit a higher number of calibers and they do come with adjustments to help even if they might not fit some perfectly. The models generally fit in the medium-priced models, but you will still find some in the low priced or even high-priced category. If you come across a 28-piece kit selling for cheap, don’t buy it. It is most likely garbage. 28-piece kits typically come equipped for all calibers above .22.
32-Piece Kits: 32-piece kits usually come with more adjustment pieces compared to 28-piece kits, but they are used for the same calibers, the ones higher than .22. It is advisable to buy a 32-piece kit only if you have prior experience cleaning weapons.
68-Piece Kits: 68-Piece kits are designed exclusively for weapon enthusiasts and professionals. They usually cover calibers of all kinds and should be used by experienced cleaners and shooters.
Handy Accessories For Gun Cleaning
Once you have your gun cleaning kit you can start cleaning, but you can invest in several accessories to help make your life a bit easier. The accessories are optional but will definitely make your life easier.
1. Cleaning Mat
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It is a must-have if you are married and would like to stay married. Cleaning weapons can be incredibly dirty work since there’s oils, carbon, swear words, and much more flying out of a weapon. Carbon easily gets absolutely everywhere, especially after it is mixed with CLP.
A cleaning mat provides a simple surface for setting down your tools, dirty gun parts, and wiping your hands. It should be preferably black and a little absorbent. Color is not important, but it will eventually become black.
This mat is huge and features and AR 15 as well as its parts. There are many other mats out there, but this particular one is massive. The added bonus of having the exploded diagram of an AR 15 is quite cool.
The mat is absorbent and soaks up the foul cleaners and solvents. It helps protect the guns from being rubbed and scratched as well as protecting the surface that you are working on.
2. Break Free CLP
- Cleans firing residue and other contaminants from the bore, moving parts and exterior of firearms while simultaneously reducing friction and protecting from corrosion
- Reduces metal-to-metal wear by protecting treated surfaces with an advanced boundary film
- Protects metals with special rust inhibitors
- Originally developed for the Military and proven in the world’s most extreme conditions
- Performs in temperatures ranging from -65 F to +475 F, and after saltwater immersion
While some gun cleaning kits comes with a bit of cleaner and a bit of solvent, it is always advisable to have some extra on hand. The Break Free CLP is an excellent option that actually works. It is a performance based 3-in-1 oil and dives in deep.
3-in-1 oils help to clean, protect, and lubricate your weapon. When used for cleaning your weapon they break through rust and carbon and make it easy to remove both.
The oil is great for lubricating, ensures consistent weapon operation, and reduces the wear and tear. It also helps protect the weapon from rust and even leaves a layer of protective oil on the weapon.
Break Free CLP is also very effective and quite affordable. It is great for high volume shooters as well as long-term storage of weapons.
3. Heavy-Duty Cleaning Swabs from FMT (RTAC)
- 100 PREMIUM COTTON TIPS – These high quality machine cleaning swabs are made of 100% cotton. Excellent for cleaning tight spots or applying grease, oils and lubricants.
- LINT FREE COTTON – The cotton buds of these cleaning swabs are lint free and tightly bound, making sure that no particle is left within the firearm while cleaning.
- 6” WOOD HANDLE FOR HARD TO GET AREAS – The cotton cleaning swabs are 6” in length and are made of premium quality sturdy wood. The cotton swabs at the end of the stick conveniently clean areas in your firearm that are otherwise difficult to reach.
- PERFECT FOR CLEANING CARBON, DIRT, AND GRIM – No matter what kind of particle there is – grease, oil, carbon, copper, or gunpowder, these swab sticks efficiently clean it all up from every nook and corner with maximum efficiency.
- EASY APPLICATION OF CLP, OIL, GREASE, AND LUBRICANTS – The long applicator and small diameter buds make cleaning and lubricating your firearms a breeze. The FMT cotton cleaning sticks come with a lifetime warranty.
You would never guess, but giant Q tips are actually quite effective when it comes to cleaning firearms. The cleaning swabs are actually designed for cleaning guns, unlike regular Q tips that fall apart on heavy use.
The swabs are considerably longer and are better suited to getting deep into the barrel of the firearm to remove hard, stuck on carbon. The swabs are great for deep cleaning and are a simple and inexpensive add-on to any gun cleaning kit.
4. Leupold Lens Pen
- Made of the highest quality materials
- Highly durable
- Color : Black
- Product Type: SPORTING GOODS
The fact that optics get dirty is hardly surprising. A good habit you should adopt is to show the optic on your rifle some love when you clean the rifle. It is not hard to do, but it is not advisable to use the same gear used for cleaning the rifle.
The oils and solvents are not good on the glass. You also don’t want to scratch the lens by taking an AP brush to the glass.
A better idea would be to use a lens pen. Leupold makes a small, effective pen for getting rid of grime and dirt. It will help keep the lens safe as it should if you consider the fact that it comes from one of the best manufacturers of optics.
5. Microfiber Cloth
- Ultra Soft Double Sided Microfiber Cloth - 2 Pack | Portable And Easy To Take With You Anywhere
- Clean With Plush Side | Polish With Silk Side | Cloth Dimensions: 7 Inch X 7 Inch
- Ultra Soft Double Sided Microfiber Cloth - 2 Pack | Portable And Easy To Take With You Anywhere
- Clean With Plush Side | Polish With Silk Side | Cloth Dimensions: 7 Inch X 7 Inch
- Great For Cleaning Lenses, Lcd Screens, Touch Screens, Eye Glasses, Cameras, Etc. Backed By Carson's One Year Limited Warranty
A simple Microfiber cloth is another handy and welcome addition to any dusty range day.
6. Hoppes No.9 Lubricating Gun Oil Wipes
- Thick cloth construction; Includes 120 6" x 7" towelettes
- Lubricating gun oil wipes are perfect for field application
- Drives out moisture, lubricates and prevents rust
- Wipes lubricate, leaving thin layer of oil with weather guard
- Thick cloth construction; Includes 60 6" x 7" towelettes
The lubricating gun oil wipes are the manliest versions of baby wipes. However, rather than ensuring that a baby’s bottom stays clean they ensure that your firearms stay clean. The wipes are coated with the legendary No. 9 gun oil by Hoppes.
The wipes make quick wipe downs fast and simple and even make scrubbing incredibly easy. They are quite handy especially if you are already at the range and would like to do a quick clean to ensure that your firearm runs smoothly throughout the day.
How To Keep Your Firearm Clean Using A Kit
After you have identified and bought the kit that best suits your needs, it is now time to get your firearm clean. This is not a difficult task to accomplish, but it requires some practice and experience. Once you are conversant with the few necessary steps and perform several cleanings on your own, cleaning your firearm will be a hobby. It could be intimidating to see the bottles and tools all lines up for use. More often than not, we view cleaning as just a water, soap, and rag endeavor. With firearms, however, you will need some specialized tools as well as some technical know-how.
1. Dismantle Your Firearm:
If you want to clean your handgun, you will most likely have to dismantle the weapon to some extent so that you have easy access to all accessories that require cleaning. The manner in which you disassemble the equipment depends on your specific weapon. Prior to cleaning your handguns, you will need to have prior knowledge regarding how to disassemble the weapon. Weapons must always be unloaded before being polished to prevent accidents.
2. Select a Well-Aired Location:
The cleaning solvents are harsh chemicals, so you should perform the cleaning in a room with sufficient ventilation. The fumes emitted by the cleaning agents could have a bad odor and potentially dangerous. And when these chemicals are ingested or come in contact with the skin, they could result in severe damage. Always be cautious when working with such cleaning agents.
3. Clearing the Barrel – Removing Debris:
The barrel is one of the parts to pay attention to when cleaning your handgun. The barrel is where all forms of grime and dirt, as well as residue from the shooting process, accumulate. To clean the barrel, you will need to attach a well-sized bore brush to your handgun cleaning rod. Then apply a solvent to the brush. Rub the brush back and forth through your barrel severally to start the cleaning process. This is a process you will have to repeat severally to get rid of all the residue in addition to reapplying a solvent severally.
4. Cleaning the Barrel to Remove Debris:
You will now need to attach the patch to your cleaning rod and push it through the barrel. This is the best way to get rid of grime and debris that was disintegrated by the cleaning solvent.
5. Lubricating the Barrel:
After you are satisfied that your barrel is clean, use a clean piece of cloth to apply a little gun oil. You will need to force the oiled patch through the barrel so as to create a protective layer for the handgun.
Some Extras When Cleaning Revolvers
Besides the barrel of your weapon, you will also need to do the same for every chamber if it is a revolver you are cleaning. And just like most firearms, revolvers usually have a long barrel in addition to having five or six smaller barrels which create a chamber. These should be cleaned just as you do with your barrel.
6. Cleaning the Exterior:
Using a small patch dipped in a cleaning solvent, you can cautiously wipe the outside of your gun and use a different piece to wipe any solvent left. The exterior of your weapon could also be conditioned by adding a small layer of preservative or oil. This gives the outside of your gun a cleaner look.
It is advisable that you clean your handgun immediately after use or before putting it in your safe for long-term storage. Making a habit of washing your gun immediately after use helps you make it a routine to maintain your weapon. And you will appreciate your cleaning efforts when your firearm works appropriately every time to shoot, whether you did so some days ago or a couple of months ago. Being conversant with the simple basics of gun cleaning provides you with the knowledge to maintain your weapon in proper working condition every time you need to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How should I store my weapon after cleaning it?
Once you have cleaned your gun, you will probably want to store it somewhere. The perfect storage space is in a warm, dark chamber, like a gun safe or cabinet. To prevent rusting, make sure you apply some lubricating oil. A locked cabinet is the best place to store a weapon.
Q: How long does cleaning my gun take?
Once you have mastered the art of disassembling, wiping, oiling and assembling your firearm, you can perform a gun clean in less than 5 minutes. This could include performing operations like disassembling the bore snake, applying and running some oil through the gun and wiping everything away. While a complete clean depends on the size of the gun, it often takes a few minutes. And if you are not in a rush to get your weapon clean, you should always be slow and sure with the gun cleaning process.
Conclusion
It is evident that keeping your air rifle or firearm clean and properly maintained is vital for the safe and proper functioning of a gun. With regular use, your firearm is bound to collect debris and residue which could prevent its proper operation. This could result in dangerous problems such as a misfire or weapon backfiring. The cakes grime and dirt could also add extra friction which could cause more wear and tear on the gun parts.
With this guide and review of the top gun cleaning kits, you have knowledge regarding top brands which have been trusted by many gun owners. You are also conversant with the tools to look for and what should be in your cleaning kit. We then gave a simple breakdown of how you can use these kits to keep your weapon clean and in proper working conditions. This will ensure that your gun is always ready and safe for use.
With this guide, you have comprehensive knowledge of everything included in a gun cleaning kit, what you should look for, how to select a cleaning kit as well as how you can keep your weapon clean and well-maintained. Happy firing!
Universal Gun Cleaning Kits: Editor’s Choice & Professional’s Choice
- Over 40 firearm-specific Cleaning components in a nylon case
- (6) memory-flex cables of varying length for effective and correct Breech-to-Muzzle Cleaning
- (22) bronze bore brushes Remove Copper deposits and other fouling
- Six (6) Memory-Flex Cables of varying length for effective and correct Breech-to-Muzzle cleaning
Universal Gun Cleaning Kits: Low-budget Choice
- [Universal Fit] - Whatever gun type you have, you can bet that this universal cleaning kit has the components you need to clean everything properly. Use it on pistols, rifles, shotguns, muzzle-loaders and any other type of firearm. NOTE:.38 .357 & 9mm are essentially the same size. Rest assured to use, will not damage your barrel. Package includes .38 .357 & 9mm brush!
- [Premium Brass Components] - Built to serve, made to last. Constructed from heavy-duty brass parts, the rods, jags and adapters are much more durable than other plastic counterparts. Plus, the screw-on design makes sure parts stay tightly connected.
- [Deluxe Cleaning Set] - Get ahead with the Ohuhu gun cleaning kit, which includes everything you need for firearm proper maintenance. Includes a lightweight, sturdy suitcase for holding the cleaning implements, and is convenient for bringing to the firing range or on hunting trips.
- [Organized Carrying Case] - Keep your tools organized, whether you're at home or on the road. Open it from the side that has the Ohuhu logo so you don't accidentally open it upside-down, and once inside, you can keep things in their proper place with the caliber labels, which are on the suitcase and accessories.
- [After-sales Service] - Buy confidently knowing there is a lifetime & money back guarantee, as well as excellent after sales service! If you have any problems while using, please feel free to contact us, we are willing to help you.
Handgun, Shotguns & Rifle Gun Cleaning Kits: Editor’s Choice & Professional’s Choice
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Handgun, Shotguns & Rifle Gun Cleaning Kits: Low-budget Choice
- Plastic storage box
- Hoppe's No. 9 cleaning kit with aluminum rod
- Includes one 2 ounce bottle cleaning solvent and one 2.25 ounce lubricating oil
- Brush for the intended caliber is included with this kit
- Intended for .38, .357 and 9 millimeter pistols
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Rating by Author / Affiliate links, Images, Descriptions & Price from Amazon Product Advertising API