Yes, Ballistol is absolutely a good gun cleaner. It’s reliable, versatile, and has been trusted by firearm owners for over a century. Whether you’re cleaning pistols, rifles, or even tools and knives, Ballistol gets the job done efficiently—and it does a whole lot more than just clean.
A Brief Look at Ballistol’s History
Ballistol’s story starts back in 1904, when German chemist Dr. Helmut Klever developed a multi-purpose oil for the German Imperial Army. He combined the words ballistic and oleum (Latin for oil) to name the product—Ballistol, or ballistic oil.
By 1905, Ballistol was officially adopted by the German military. Fast forward to today, and it’s a staple in garages, workshops, and gun rooms across the globe.
My Experience Using Ballistol
Over the years, I’ve tried everything from Hoppe’s No. 9 and BreakFree CLP to newer options like Shooter Lube. But Ballistol has earned a permanent spot in my cleaning routine—for a few good reasons.
- Convenient aerosol can: Perfect for tossing in the range bag without worrying about leaks.
- Cleans fast: I coated the barrel of my Glock, waited about a minute, and wiped it clean. Carbon buildup came off with ease.
- Light oil coating: A quick pass with a Ballistol-soaked rag gave the slide and frame just the right amount of protection.
- Done in under 5 minutes: Seriously, it’s that efficient.
The only downside? The smell. It’s not terrible—some say it reminds them of a men’s locker room—but it’s strong. I usually clean in the garage with the door open, and it’s totally manageable.
Why Ballistol Stands Out
Here’s what sets Ballistol apart from other gun cleaners:
✅ Cleans, Lubricates & Protects
Ballistol acts as a cleaner, lubricant, and rust protectant—all in one can. You don’t need to juggle three different products to get the job done.
🌿 Safe on Wood, Leather, & More
It’s safe to use on metal, plastic, rubber, wood, and leather. So if your rifle has a wood stock or leather sling, you don’t have to worry about damage.
♻️ Non-Toxic & Eco-Friendly
Ballistol is biodegradable and less harsh than many petroleum-based cleaners. It’s a solid option for gun owners who prefer environmentally friendly products.
🛠️ Perfect for Tools & Gear Too
Beyond firearms, Ballistol works wonders on knives, tools, fishing gear, and even car parts. Think of it as a multi-tool in a can.
📦 Convenient Aerosol Delivery
Its aerosol can makes it super easy to spray down your gear—whether you’re in the garage or at the range. Plus, no mess in your range bag.
One of Ballistol’s standout features is that it doesn’t come off when it gets wet. That makes it great for humid environments or rainy days at the range.
Ballistol vs WD-40: What’s the Difference?
People often compare Ballistol to WD-40—but they’re not the same.
WD-40 is a solvent and water displacer, not a dedicated lubricant. It might help loosen a rusted firearm, but it’s not ideal for regular gun maintenance.
Here’s why:
- WD-40 evaporates fast – leaving your gun dry and unprotected.
- Ballistol sticks around – offering ongoing lubrication and rust prevention.
- Ballistol is made for guns – WD-40 isn’t.
That said, WD-40 can be useful in emergencies—like when your firearm gets submerged in water or is completely rusted shut. But once you’ve got it cleaned up, you’re better off switching to Ballistol.
What Is Ballistol Made Of?
Ballistol is a blend of:
- White mineral oil – for lubrication and rust protection
- Vegetable-derived oils – to help condition wood and leather
- Alkaline salts of oleic acid – for neutralizing acidic residues
- Alcohols & Benzyl Acetate – to help with cleaning and penetration
- Propane/Isohexane (in aerosol form) – to propel the product from the can
It’s safe to use on metal, plastic, rubber, wood, leather, and more, which makes it a versatile option for gun owners who also maintain knives, tools, or even fishing gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the military use Ballistol?
Yes, the German military used Ballistol from 1905 to 1945. Today, it’s used by some U.S. Coast Guard units, Navy SEAL teams, and German special forces.
Is Ballistol made in the USA?
No, Ballistol is still manufactured in Germany by Ballistol GmbH in the village of Aham.
Can Ballistol be used on wood or leather gun parts?
Absolutely. That’s one of its biggest selling points. It’s gentle enough for leather slings and wooden rifle stocks, while still cleaning and protecting metal parts.
Final Thoughts: Is Ballistol Worth It?
Yes—Ballistol is a fantastic gun cleaner. It cleans thoroughly, lubricates effectively, and leaves a lasting protective barrier that helps prevent rust and corrosion.
It might not be the flashiest product on the shelf, but it works—and it works well.
Where To Buy
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