Smyth Busters: Is Motor Oil a Good Substitute for Gun Oil?

[@Hybris51129]

Some one needs to get Project Farm on the line to test gun oils and also compare them to motor oil.

[@wanderingcalamity360]

Agreed.

[@buellboy007]

Ditto

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Remember the Fire Clean 🔥🔥🔥 Canola oil CLP scandal a few years back? 🤔 some gun care hero guys said they had the best rated gun oil, gun cleaner. $$$. Turns out it was common cooking 🍳 oil....

[@Hybris51129]

@@DavidLLambertmobile I remember hearing about that early on but thought it was just more iffy gun forum BS that always exist in such places.

[@ChucksSEADnDEAD]

@@Hybris51129 someone did spectral analysis and it was extremely close to canola oil, with maybe additives in the mix. However, canola oil or not their marketing claims about being "cleaner" because in videos the pistol let off more smoke was such BS that they should have been riddiculed and dismissed on that alone.

[@lanedexter6303]

I believe it was Ken Hackathorn who observed that, “in most of the world guns are cleaned with diesel and lubed with motor oil.” We are just spoiled by a plethora of specialized products here in the States.

[@lanedexter6303]

@@John_Redcorn_ I DID watch the video, and I use the excellent products available here. I merely observed that we are very fortunate (spoiled) here by the many products available. If necessary, I could get by with diesel & motor oil, but it would be more work. Heck, our ancestors got by with black powder and no petroleum products for cleaning or preservation. But it was work.

[@markedman3990]

@@lanedexter6303 very good point!

[@jcolem5576]

@@lanedexter6303 they had whale oil, which is superior to a lot today's stuff. in the wilderness if they didn't have any whale oil they used rendered animal fat, such as bear grease.

[@mikedavies5682]

One of the many videos on the subject, some guy with a Vietnamese name posted that "40 years ago I cleaned rifle with kerosene. Lube with Motor Oil. That all we had. Rifle always go Bang".. LOL>

[@lanedexter6303]

@@mikedavies5682 I love it. 😃

[@voltagedrop]

Motor oil contains rust inhibitors too. The problem is it also contains additives that remove rust, and bluing is technically a kind of rust.

[@vivillager]

Most of what I have is either stainless steel (yeah, it's not rust-proof, but they doesn't see adverse conditions), aluminum, and polymer. So I don't use either, I use high-temp axle grease, it doesn't drip, and everything slides buttery smooth. Having said that, there is a KZbinr, Project Farm, that tested various products against rust, and used motor oil wasn't much better than nothing at all when protecting against rust. Fluid Film, intended for protecting vehicle underbodies in salted areas did quite well. There was another product that did well, but I forgot the name. I wonder how well those would do if someone tried to use them on a firearm?

[@johnwallace7694]

Gun oils are not that spendy really

[@williamgahres6631]

@@vivillager Couldn't you use differential oil in ed's red?

[@vivillager]

@@williamgahres6631, maybe, but I never have any laying around. Once a year, January, is my maintenance month. Oil changes, air filter, cabin air filter, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, brake fluid, P/S fluid... also front and rear diffs. Thing is that after I fill the diffs, I pretty much just throw away my remaining diff fluid as I won't need any til next year. Axle grease I have is actually the cartridge grease that I keep in my grease gun for ball joints, tie rod ends, idler arms, pitman arms, etc... Since I never throw away my grease gun, I always have it on hand. If I use it on something without a zerk fitting, like a BCG, I just squeeze some onto my finger and wipe.

[@williamgahres6631]

@@vivillager 1 parts each so I'd just go through any old oils opened and strain it in the mix.

[@Edward-nw8kq]

I've been buying parts and components from Brownells for 40 years and Caleb is a salesman his job is to sell products for Brownells. When I mentioned that I lubricated all my firearms with synthetic motor oil it's because I spent 28 years in the Army and everyone of us Rangers cleaned our firearms with diesel fuel and then lubricating them with synthetic motor oil , all other manufactured gun oils could not withstand the heat when automatic weapons get hot , but we always ran our weapons wet with synthetic motor oil and our weapons never failed us just my personal experience. God bless America and God bless the republic

[@pantac4493]

Did you put light coat of motor oil in bore also?

[@simpleflipR6]

Gasoline and diesel oils. That smell and smoke is 🔥 sir

[@RGR2155]

Ya man, back in 2/75 we lubricated machine guns with automatic transmission fluid and they ran great.

[@joshmalcom89]

Well said!!!

[@tonysmith5465]

Not real sure how long synthetic oil has been out. 🙁. Please let me know. Thanks a lot friend. SC Navy vet.

[@jarink1]

"The myth is busted, but only for certain guns and we don't really want to make our gun lube vendors mad." is what I got out of this video.

[@miletello1]

😂 exactly

[@johnhannahM2.0]

I think Mobil 1 has rust protection in it.

[@huckleberryfinn8795]

Not really, they said its a good lubricant but doesnt protect against rust like gun oil does. Thats literally 100% true. He even said you can use it for the inside of the gun.

[@ihiohoh2708]

@@huckleberryfinn8795 Except it isn't true. Mobil 1 oil has better rust protection than most gun oils.

[@mikerobinson6606]

Have you ever seen a rusty crank case?

[@Libertarian_Neighbor]

I only use motor oil to lube AR BCG’s. It lasts a lot longer than “gun lubes” and has made my AR’s more reliable. I still clean with CLP.

[@mmgee]

Most CLP’s are PAO (Polly Alpha Olefin) synthetic motor oil, buy a quart, or use your dipstick

[@GrippinTheGauge206]

@@mmgee are you saying CLP and synth motor oil are the exact same thing?

[@mmgee]

@@GrippinTheGauge206 very close, yes

[@ninja393]

How many quarts does it take?

[@rodrigoarcoverde385]

I do the same. It's better than gun oil especially for the rings. It supports more the hot gases. When a use a gun lube in the rings it disappears with few shots.

[@michaeltubbs4606]

ArmaLite conducted tests that determined that automatic transmission fluid and synthetic motor oil were excellent cleaners and lubricants of firearms.

[@uncletom-e4461]

I worked as a compounder/grease maker for 12 years at Gulf Oil Corp... You are 100% correct on ATF and motor oils. I've been using ATF for years because it is less corrosive than motor oil. I left the packaging plant years before synthetic motor oil was even a thought, so I can't attest to their properties...

[@lanedexter6303]

@@uncletom-e4461 i use 50/50 acetone & ATF as penetrant in my shop. The ATF film left behind is a Good Thing. For years I’ve used 50/50 Mobil 1 & STP for special applications (gate hinges) but very few gun apps because it is a bit viscous for my preference.

[@shanewireman361]

I've used synthetic motor oil in my ar also for 6000 rounds and no problems occured

[@JenkinsStevenD]

Being a good cleaner and lubricant doesn't mean it has good rust inhibiting properties. I've never used them though.

[@AGENT-tq1nm]

Hey guys! Is motor oil dangerous for my over under shotguns Bluing ?? I am concerned if i am supposed to cover and lubricate outer barrels with thin film of motor oil or not ?? Would it affect my gun bluing ???

[@tacticalcornbread3506]

I've been using Mobil 1 full synthetic for about 10 years now and it seems to not dry out like most gun oils do so I don't have to apply it to my safe queens as much.

[@independentthinker8930]

Try cleaning all the oil off and using a hard paste wax like johnson and Johnsons, works great for me. No oily mess, just cleaner as dust isn't as attracted to it

[@independentthinker8930]

@E mineral spirits is all I need for a cleaner, mineral oil does most of my lubrication needs

[@johnburrows1179]

Same here. Since 1969. My guns run beautiful in and out

[@dcrose001]

@E yup I 7se nothing but breakthrough products on my guns. Grease on the slide and go oil on rotating parts. The cleaner is amazing with zero odor.

[@LexCinnabon]

Same here, never had an issue. I use the same type of oil, and for about the same number of time.

[@buellboy007]

I have 5 different certifications with lubricants processing protectants as well as ASE certifications I've been in the automotive business for over 25 years I've been involved in firearms for over 30 Motor oil does have anti-rust inhibitors protectors detergents bonding fortifiers and lubrication an antifoaming additives In fact most of your synthetic motor oil is are far superior to any gun oil on the market they have a higher cook off temperature better lubricity as well as cheaper. I'm gonna have to disagree with your opinion on this one and this is not a myth good high and motor oil is far superior to 90% of all gun oil products on the market ie Joe Gibbs racing which contains zinc and the phosphates needed mobil one synthetic racing Royal purple

[@jwilsonhandmadeknives2760]

100%.

[@dragontalontsiawd]

I concur as a machinist, welder, and fellow maintenance tech... I use "red n tacky" Lucas grease for most part... These guys need to show us if the myth is busted... Just locker room talk from these 2 at Brownells

[@dragontalontsiawd]

2nd to that, people don't realize if it's good enough for daily use in their forged steel parts, aluminum, brass etc on their race cars or daily drivers, then why wouldn't it be good enough for a firearm?

[@foxsquirrel3038]

Truth!!!

[@nathanlanders4815]

I completely agree with you. We have to take into consideration that Brownells sells firearms specific lubricant. It's like asking a Chevy salesman if you should buy a Ford truck. Another thing is I have never understood why firearms need specific cleaners and lubricants. The industrial machinery industry already has great products for machines. What makes firearms any different?

[@petersouthernboy6327]

Been using Synthetic Racing Oil on AR BCG’s for decades now. 👍. The synthetic has a very high thermal flash point and doesn’t smell.

[@TheShaggyRifleman]

Actually it does smell, but it smells nice 🥰

[@petersouthernboy6327]

@@TheShaggyRifleman unless you’re using CFE223 powder and that ammonia smell drowns out everything 😀

[@TheShaggyRifleman]

@@petersouthernboy6327 😂🤣

[@antuanmorilli7605]

I served 3 mandatory years inside a small SF unit in the Golani brigade, IDF. We used the smaller version of the Galil (AR), russian AK's and US AR15's. As ligh MG we had the FN MAG, russian PK's and RPD's. And more than once we had to use engine oil to lubricate our weapons in operational cases behind the lines since we did not always have access to a dedicated rifle oil (its code was 9105). We also smeared some grease on the tip of the gas cylinder in the Galil AR & AK's. We've never had a problem. All this was about 30 years ago. Since then to this day I regularly carry my old SIG P228, every day, 10 hours a day. I never treated it with weapon oil, always engine oil. Never ever had a problem, no mather what I shot through it. Original blueing is still on the pistol, although there are quite a few signs of wear and tear, of course.

[@richardnear4160]

Just make sure to do a oil change every 3,000 rounds😁👍

[@DanishAfridi551]

😂😂

[@craigstephen3216]

True story. I. Army reserve 1986 at range . Forgot the CLP my weapon was dry. So I grab a quart of 10w3O from the Jeep. I only meant a drop in the bolt but drowned the whole receiver. Anyway while night firing I was told I had blue flames coming out my M16. In the end my weapon was fine and even though very oily it cleaned up nice the carbon came right off.

[@1GUNSQUIRREL]

God bless you gentlemen and God bless Brownells for standing up to the tyranny of the ATF

[@snowflakecuntreeman3947]

Ironic because i use ATF to lubricate my firearms 🤔.

[@timfoil2319]

You guys didn’t “bust” anything. You gave your opinions , that’s not the same thing

[@lkazanov]

Love your stuff, but oxidation (rust) requires (in our discussion) 2 things. And it must be 2 things. Oxygen and water. Oil displaces water (the two cannot mix). I am big ban of Mobil 1 synthetic.

[@The.Floor.Store.At.Your.Door44]

3 things... Moister, air, and iron.

[@thefinalsay8330]

@@The.Floor.Store.At.Your.Door44 and

[@thefinalsay8330]

@@The.Floor.Store.At.Your.Door44 what

[@natevance538]

Not nit picking just learned working in a paint shop that water by itself is a preservative. It’s the electrolytes (salts) in the water that cause rust through an electrical reaction. Just thought it was a cool fact when I learned it.

[@sethb5433]

@@natevance538 well, here’s another fun fact. Those same salts are actually what causes water to conduct electricity. Pure distilled water w/o minerals is a pretty top grade conductor, keeping pure is the hard part.

[@TheDiameter]

My AKs and Glocks seem to love brake cleaner to clean and motor oil to lube/protect...

[@farmboy5433]

And my Arsensl AK's dust covers loved the brake cleaner so much they removed the black paint from their finish. LOL! Arsenal's paint jobs on their AK's are busted.

[@TyinAlaska]

Damn straight.

[@Platano_macho]

Break cleaner $1.99 a can of super tech Break free powder blast $7.99 a can

[@bigro4444]

Gun oil $15 for 2oz. Motor Oil: $10 for an entire quart. I think you see the issue. You can then mix said oil with different grease and additives and still be paying less. With that said I have tons of gun oils I still need to get through before finally switching over to just motor oil.

[@JenkinsStevenD]

While it is still more expensive than motor oil, you can get an entire gallon of CLP on Amazon for $100. That is $0.78 per ounce vs your example of $7.50 per ounce. Your example is 9.6 times more expensive than CLP bought in bulk.

[@barrymantei7795]

I bought a gallon of synthetic blend gone oil for 80$ so why risk using engine oil?

[@Ka_Gg]

Or, if you use cheap supertech full synthetic, a jug is like $20. Save what isn't used during the oil change and now you have "free" gun lube.

[@yesterdayshero2916]

I've personally used mobile one synthetic inside and out on several rifles and hunt hard with them, no rust in 19+ years. It seems to stay on the rifle better also. It's the ticket for AR15 BCG's.

[@merlin704]

I use Royal Purple 10W30 on all my firearms. Quite pleased with it's performance in the 5 years I have been using it. And as mentioned, 1 qt. goes a LONG way.

[@KeithJamesDesigns]

From damp ,humid swamps of Louisiana, we all use synthetic motor oil.

[@bbb462cid]

I tried Liberal's tears, but they contain way too much salt.

[@CalebSavant]

I gunsmithed in south LA for many years and it is the cause of many rusted duck guns.

[@KeithJamesDesigns]

@@CalebSavant Interesting. Do you think it could be a storage issue? I have guns over 50 years old and no issues. I do of course clean and oil after using.

[@MF-Rell]

@@bbb462cid That's bc you don't have any

[@KeithJamesDesigns]

@@John_Redcorn_ Your engine is outside in the unprotected environment. Do you have a lot of rust inside your engine? My firearms are inside in a controlled environment. I'm only speaking from personal experience. Do you have a link to theses tests?

[@BOOMER-rs5qn]

Instead of just spitting out opinions, do an actual test comparing the oils on actual guns under real world conditions. I'm a skeptic of every opinion until I see evidence. Like they say in Missouri, "Show Me".

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I say see Froglube Extreme 🐸, Rand CLP, Slip 2000, LPX, Ballistol, Gunzilla. Avoid harsh fumes or odors.

[@strat1080]

Agreed. Synthetic motor oil is better than most of the dedicated gun oils out there. There are a lot of crappy gun oils out there. Remoil for example is worthless as a lubricant and protectant. There are a few exceptional gun oils for rust protection but they are few and far between. John Redcorn, I saw those same tests and had a different takeaway. In terms of rust protection the vast majority of gun ouls were about the same as motor oil. Some were worse. There were really just a few lubricants that did really well. In others words do your research and don’t assume an oil is good as a protectant just because it’s marketed as a gun oil. I disagree about gun oil being cheap. It’s not for people who shoot a lot. I can buy an entire quart of motor oil for the savage price a 2oz bottle of “gun oil” costs.

[@Grabbagar670]

I've been using Walmart brand Multi-Duty Complex Hi-Temp Grease in a 14oz tub to grease the rails and other friction points on my M1 rifle and my AK. Works fantastically a lubricant and it's cheap and theres a lot of it in a 14 oz tub. I do, of course protect the metal surfaces and trigger parts etc with clp.

[@jtdundee]

This would be a great subject for a fair, unbiased, 12 month study from folks who have no financial interest in the subject. I've used gun oil in the distant past and motor oil for the past 30 years, but I cannot say I have done truly scientific testing other than anecdotal stories of never finding rust inside an engine, and sometimes getting rust spots on a blued gun after being out in the rain all day. Someone, please... it's test time.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Someone did a in depth CLP T&E a few years ago. Froglube did well. LPX, Ballistol. WD40 & Rem Oil did poorly.

[@jakeweston8616]

These smyth buster vids are sooo interesting and useful. Thanks guys!

[@deputyprepper4931]

I use mobile one synthetic on the inside of my AR and a clp soaked rag to wipe down the outside. I am a LEO and it has not failed me yet. Good topic keep up the good work

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I'm a veteran, 4yr MP 🎗 & a licensed security officer. I use Froglube 🐸 & on occasion, Ballistol. A non toxic CLP with no petroleum products will do fine.

[@markk3652]

I'm a PISCES, but if you say it works, I'll believe you.

[@TheDude1764]

@@markk3652 🤣😂 Spit my coffee reading this one!

[@m.p.2482]

Armalite (you know, the company that created our beloved ArmaliteRifle15 platform) tested motor oil as a lubricant in 2013. They were concerned that owners of the its guns, including the military, were cleaning their firearms with materials that would cause them to fail in SHTF situations. Here's what they concluded: (The following information is being provided for fair use and educational purposes only. I am not responsible for how you use this information.) Technical Note 64 Alternate Cleaning and Lubrication Materials for Small Arms Background ArmaLite officials conducting small arms maintenance training in an allied nation were advised that Military and Police officers often use common cooking oil as a small arms cleaner and lubricant. A 4 ounce bottle of cleaning material common in Europe or America could cost as much as a weeks income for a laborer in much of the rest of the world. ArmaLite is concerned that improper cleaners and lubricants could threaten the performance of its rifles in critical moments. ArmaLite's staff has therefore conducted a preliminary study to identify inexpensive, effective small arms maintenance materials that are available worldwide. Findings: ArmaLite has consulted with Small Arms experts at Rock Island Arsenal and elsewhere, and has conducted preliminary evaluations of the materials they recommended: Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) as a cleaner and light lubricant. ATF performs admirably as a carbon remover, and protects steel surfaces excellently ("Have you ever seen a transmission that's rusty inside?"). Twenty weight engine oil serves in an environment that is far more strenuous than normally found in small arms so it is normally quite successful. The Army authorities recommend synthetic oils such as Mobil 1. (In fact, one noted authority has used Mobil 1 as his personal firearm lubricant for over two decades.) No safe copper remover formulation has yet been identified, but government tests reveal that copper removal provides no advantage in a standard military arm. It may serve a useful purpose in cleaning the bore of a rifle meant for extremely precise fire, such as a sniper rifle. Recommendations: Employ ATF as a small arms cleaning agent, and follow with 20 weight synthetic motor oil as a lubricant. Until a commonly available alternate copper solvent is identified, employ a commonly available commercial copper solvent such as Hoppe's Number 9 on firearms intended for a high degree of accuracy.

[@Of-AgeConsentingNon-Related]

Eugene Stoner 😎 cool guy of the week, every week

[@Oreguns85]

@m.p.2482 So copper removers aren't safe and they're bad for our health?

[@misahayase8854]

the ATF will clean your guns, but getting them back is another matter j/k thats good to know

[@Oreguns85]

@@misahayase8854 Actually it's kind of hard to get a gun they took from me. They took my .357 pistol and they want the registered owner to go to the police station. I bought the gun from a random guy and I have no information about him. No name, location and I don't think he's the person who bought it so it wouldn't be registered to him anyway. Does anybody know if I only have a certain amount of time to get it back? I don't know what I should do

[@Excalibur2]

​@@Oreguns85honestly, it will cost more to get back than worth, but you could hire a lawyer to fight for it.

[@akforge]

It’s amazing how many grown men get bent around the axle over firearm lubricants. Probably one of the biggest hot button topics on any firearms related forum and or social media page. 🤣

[@timdibble6077]

I love the videos my father was a sniper for 26 years in the army a tour in Korea and three tours in Vietnam and he used motor oil for the outside of the guns and never had a problem with rust. We also lived up north as well so we have to agree to disagree on this one. Now it was just a light coat with a old cotton rag I still does this as well and I don’t have any problems at all keep up the great work you two

[@GrippinTheGauge206]

I’ve heard that motor oil works well to lubricate an AR15 bolt carrier group because gun oil tends to burn off quickly

[@pn6513]

I've lived in FL since 2014 after my military honorable discharge, I have used a mixture of motor oil, atf fluid, and grease since 2014, gun range was either every weekend or every other weekend and sometimes once a month. Its humid to say the least here. Now on to 2020, I still own the same firearm with zero rust inside or out, the only thing i have replace are the bolts and extractor on average of 4-5k rounds +-, i shoot brass and steel with no issue, i do clean my firearm after every trip to the gun range. My point is, if you take care of the things on your end, you wont have any problem. On a side note, 2020 have been a crappy year, and anyone whos anyone should know the election cycle and avoid panic buying on those year, i tend to buy them a year before.

[@draperture50]

I appreciate all the great Brownells videos and would like to add to this particular one. Its understandable to use a premium Gun Oil and assume that it is not likely anything else could be better. As they stated coating the outside of a gun with an engine oil might be less than ideal but for internals in side by side tests i have done, nothing outperforms synthetic engine oil. This type of lubricant "exceeds the need" in every way. Try a side by side test of gun oil with Synthetic Engine oil on an AR sear and you will feel a difference. As far as cling the engine oil hangs in place better, stays cleaner, is made to protect seals and metals of all kinds, has corrosion inhibitors that withstand gasoline, methanol and a variety of other acids over extended periods of time and its made to withstand much more heat than can be generated in a firearm. Synthetic Engine oil is also safe to get on your hands but some gun oils are not. I wouldn't use regular engine oil because of the high level of impurities, only synthetic. 10-w30 Syn for all internals keeps the guns working silk smooth, Gun oil for all externals before storage is what works for me.

[@adonikam1]

I use 3 n 1 oil. Ain't failed me yet. Yes I've used 30w moter oil inside and out. Never rusted in storage or field!! Great video.

[@madmaxd1]

I've been using Mobil1 on my firearms for over 30 years now and I'm also a car enthusiast. From what I understand, Mobil1 as well as other high end synthetic motor oils do have rust inhibitors. As a matter of fact, I believe these same motor oils probably have better attributes and properties than most gun oils. They also don't degrade plastics or polimers, so they can be used with new platforms with synthetic materials. I've lived in Florida for most of my life and rust hasn't been an issue while using motor oil. I agree that there's a possibility the some gun lubes as CLP, may have better penetrating properties on metals vs. Motor oils. It's very hard to understand the justification on how expensive high end gun lubricants are vs. motor oils.

[@csirreee]

Do you also coat your guns' exterior with Mobil1? Thank you.

[@madmaxd1]

@@csirreee No I don't. Motor oil does not evaporate/degrade as most gun oils. So coating your firearms with motor oil is not recommended since you'll end up with a mess. I only use it lightly on friction points. I use a CLP for the overall coating, since CLP is thinner and penetrating.

[@tubejim101]

The real question is. Can you use gun oil in your engine?

[@anthonybarkasysr5029]

I inherited my brother in law's pistol cleaning kit from Hoppe's and found a container of Sinclair 🦕 light machine oil. That old Dino is what kept his S&W model 10-6 going and looking good for years. Talk about old dinosaurs!

[@jadslash]

Motor oil is probably better. More R&D went into it. I wouldn't be surprised if some of these gun oils are just rebottled engine oil.

[@timothyprice9064]

I have been using motor oil since the 70s while stationed in Hawaii. I have never had a rust problem. I use Mobile1 it does a great job for me.

[@ChrisPBacon741]

Do you use it to wipe the exterior of the gun as well? What about cleaning bores?

[@phprofYT]

So. In the approaching zombie apocalypse, when you are out of gun oil you can substitute motor oil in a pinch. Got it.

[@thedeathwobblechannel6539]

Even dirty motor oil will do in a pinch.

[@Kaliburz]

On a reality TV show, the guys made a Mac full auto. When they went to demo, it did not cycle right due to being dirty. Well, they had no lube.... so they went to the truck, pulled the dio stick out & coated the bolt with engine oil... it ran... no more malfunctions

[@MrEpeeFencer]

@@thedeathwobblechannel6539 Don't use dirty motor oil unless you're really desperate. I use clean synthetic motor oil on my AR's, but dirty motor oil is carcinogenic.

[@thedeathwobblechannel6539]

@@MrEpeeFencer totally agree.

[@elconquistador7363]

No, what this means, if you run put of Mobile 1, you can use commercial gun oil in a pinch! Just make sure you clean that crap out with ATF and properly re-lube with Mobile 1 first chance you get.

[@timothyfanney7260]

5w-20 synthetic on my BCG works awesome. Gun oil on barrels, triggers, exterior parts and on everything else to handguns and other rifles.

[@buttnaked]

Gun oil on trigger? No sir, chief called, he said that ain’t it. You use lighter fluid on triggers but not all need it. Tf

[@MrEpeeFencer]

@@buttnaked Lighter fluid?

[@buttnaked]

@@MrEpeeFencer yes sir. like zippo lighter fluid.

[@MrEpeeFencer]

@@buttnaked I admit I don't know what the ingredients of lighter fluid are, but putting a flammable fluid in your gun doesn't seem like a good idea.

[@nxt2195]

Motor oil lasts longer than gun oil and is much more heat resistant.

[@mitchculpepper738]

I mix Lucas red and tacky with synthetic motor oil to the consistency of honey and use it on all slides, rails, BCG’s, and most internal parts. The barrel and exterior will get wiped with straight gun oil or motor oil depending on what’s on hand.

[@garysgarage.2841]

Doesn't matter any oil is better than no oil

[@TheMotorcycleBoss]

I've been using full synthetic motor oil to lube all of my guns for over 5 years. It made sense to me. For one, gun oils can be quite expensive. And what do they do? They lubricate, clean, prevent rust, deal in all temperature extremes, collect carbon, etc. Everything that motor oil is designed to do. And as a mechanic of over 10 years, I can attest that motor oil DOES have rust-inhibitors in it. However; gun bluing is a type of rust. So just to be safe, I wouldn't wipe the outside with it all the time. Even though I'm pretty sure it wouldn't hurt it.

[@Ka_Gg]

NAILED IT! Here's the thing. Let's say hypothetically the gun oil is better. The next question to ask is how good of lubrication do you actually need though. Think of an old 5hp briggs you have in the garage, you don't need the best oil of all time in that thing. Most people just need a certain level of lubricant in their guns. Motor oils (and probably most other oils) will provide that. Also, look at brake rotors, new ones sit on a shelf for a long time with a very thin film of motor oil and they don't have rust. Also, say you go shooting a bit, a few drops of motor oil to keep it lubed costs pretty much nothing. Hell, I'd even like to see a test where someone takes used motor oil, filters it out and then run it in a cheap gun as a test. It'd probably do well in most circumstances.

[@deniskozlowski9370]

I remember reading somewhere that the Soviet army used to clean their small arms with transmission fluid and lubricate them with motor oil. It was done this way to ease their supply burdons in the field.

[@timthomas4840]

Here at Brownells we don’t recommend using motor oil for your firearm. We recommend using a dedicated gun oil. Coincidentally WE SALE dedicated gun oil at our online store. 😏

[@billj5645]

A long time ago I had a set of feeler gauges in my toolbox. I put motor oil on them but later found them rusted so I coated them in motor oil and they still tended to rust.

[@Beardman56]

That's the downside to motor oil. It doesn't have strong anti rust properties because it's designed to have a large quantity of it in an engine and constantly sloshing around coating things.

[@michaelsteinmann529]

I own a W.German SIG P228 for almost 30 years now, carry it on daily base. I use only motor oil. No complaints. I think it holds better, it has better corossion resistance, better heat resistance etc.

[@Jdowling357]

I keep a needle tip bottle of Mobil 1 5w30 for my ar bolt and moving parts . Clp for everything else

[@johnwallace7694]

@@mail-qh2qc We 40 sucks. , My smith showed me pics of a really formerly sweet python , and WD. Really ruined the finish over long term storage duration .

[@ConSocialist]

​@@mail-qh2qc Add 30-40% chain & bar oil. The drive link and bar rail are perfectly analogous to gun mating surfaces. Plus it has a tackifier additive that helps with adhesion, think about how fast a chain saw is spinning. That with a high quality synthetic for the high temp and cleaning properties make the perfect "gun oil".

[@hydjrasierra1557]

@@johnwallace7694 Sorry, used WD40 on the outside for decades and it ruined no finish I ever had.

[@realisrealite5554]

I use a combination of mobile and red line grease.Mix,shake and when it flows like thin honey its ready.I use it on all my guns and they're extremely smooth.Whit that being said I spray the exterior with remoil to keep rust at bay.

[@kolinmartz]

If you use marine engine oil, you’re all set. Marine motor oil has rust inhibitors in them.

[@johnny-james]

Oh yeah I didn't know that. Good tip!

[@NatralSelection]

The, "the more you know" jingle with the little shooting star / rainbow went off in my head when I read this.

[@charaznable2379]

It has more is all motor oil has foam inhibitors ,friction modifiers ,and rust preventive about 8inall that y scheduled maintenance required flush it looses these and removes contamination incurred

[@rogerknight2267]

I use a marine gr

[@rogerknight2267]

I use a marine grease on my AR internal components where there’s friction

[@RickNethery]

You can get a material safety data sheet on motor oil.

[@charlesdriggers199]

I use a mixure of gun and lighter synthetic oil with some moly powder. I have found this to work rather well for all round protective and wear resistance.

[@chiphailstone589]

I use 2 stroke snowmobile type oil in winter, here in the Arctic. It has TCW-3 in it to prevent jelling, so I apply and then wipe, and remain lubed. The snowgo 2 stroke lube wont thicken at -40f, been using it for 35 years+ now.

[@adama1294]

A lot of the world relies on diesel to clean and motor oil to oil it down so it can't be awful. There is certainly better stuff. For moving parts high temp brake bearing grease is awesome. Protects against rust and has superior wear properties. Lucas red and tacky is some of the best. Actually better than mist "gun" greases.

[@FW-jq1ox]

Yeahhhhh, but a lot of the world uses AK variants. I think this is highly subjective. I wouldn't clean my AR with diesel, although it probably would work, it's just not practical for me to smell like a truck stop all bleeping day at the range.

[@mybsite5697]

I hate having rusty engine internals, you know where loads of moisture and acids are always contacting my metals inside. So ima start using a clp instead. Inside my engine of course. Literally WTF! ?

[@varmint243davev7]

I've been using 10w30 synthetic motor oil for a lot of years, that way I get good performance in winter and summer :-) For storage I use Birchwood Casey Barricade on the outer surfaces.

[@somwrtlftur2367]

I've never felt the need to find a replacement for the CLP that has served me greatly for 4 decades. Great video as always.

[@MegaGman61]

I remember reading in George Orwell's "Homage to Catalonia" that they used olive oil to lube their bolt action rifles because they didn't have anything else!

[@sidscott6064]

motor oil is a rust inhibitor and most syntheic oils have been over engineered

[@zanebarton6212]

What about solvents? Is it ok to use kerosene / lacquer thinner / turpentine to clean metal parts? Will it hurt any finish like bluing?

[@none-yabizniz187]

yes great for the inside of the Glock too be sure to lube up your springs cups.

[@timhaartnet7805]

I've been using royal purple for years for more basic guns like my beretta but my ar I use CLP. The royal purple really seems to soak in better than any gun oil I've ever used.

[@larryw5429]

Shell rotella T-6 diesel oil and I wipe them down with it and they haven't rusted one bit! I use mine in all temps and works slicker than snot!!

[@humansvd3269]

Rotella, Pennzoil, and Quaker are all shell products and they are awesome.

[@ckim6400]

Mobile One is a synthetic oil. It is designed so that it lubricates both hot and cold. Tests prove Mobile One works into the surface cracks so minute you need a microscope to see them. This keeps surfaces lubricated. Saying Mobil One doesn't prevent rust is foolish. Recommended for High Performance engines like Corvette it's lubricating properties excel in high temperatures and freezing conditions. Claim what you want I've use it on all my firearms with 100% satisfaction and Zero Rust!

[@A-PatrioT]

These guys are desperately trying to save the gun lube businesses by spreading lies about motor oil. It’s clearly a money game with them. Full synthetic Mobile One or nothing.

[@elingeniero9117]

@@A-PatrioT I'm with you bro. I support a communist form of government. to spare people like you the greed of capitalism. Government ownership of the means of production and of all business is the only way to go.

[@A-PatrioT]

@@elingeniero9117 , Nothing I said was remotely communist you sh!t for brains. These guys said that motor oil isn’t a good gun lube because it ”doesn’t have rust prevention properties”. Have a seat bozo.

[@MrEpeeFencer]

I use synthetic motor oil on my AR's, works fine.

[@deejayimm]

Years ago I made a big batch of Ed's Red and the base for that was automatic transmission fluid. It works well.

[@Jetsetterak]

School of American Rifle has a video about this topic, check it out . Yes it can be used to lube internal parts and is significantly cheaper than gun lube.

[@ForOrAgainstUs]

SOTAR didn't mention coating the outside though, just that he runs it WET. Some of those comments are hysterical. I'll be doing the SOTAR method shortly. This video did not sway me.

[@davidunderwood3605]

I watched a video from the School of the American Rifle on this suject where he uses Mobile synthetic and synthetic greese in a mix for the inside lubricant of AR's and really puts it to the bolt and bcg. I'm big fan of Slip 2000 and Breakfree CLP. His mix seems like a good money saver. Any thoughts on this. Mabey watch the video and give us your veiws on it's use.

[@dennisskurnack1740]

That may be one reason, but by no means the only reason a lot of Milsurps have some non-bore rust issues if they were not "baptized" in cosmoline. This may be because a lot of non-first-world militaries use diesel fuel to clean and motor oil to lubricate their firearms

[@dorothybautista6291]

I clean and lube my 1911 with baby oil, it smells nice

[@daveodo4315]

I live in Canada’s Yukon. Most motor oil would not be good to use internally on a gun here. In the cold months it would thicken up to much and make a gun unreliable.

[@daveodo4315]

JKSteve1124 I’ve hunted caribou around the arctic circle at temperatures as low as -53 c or -63 f. No motor oil weight is going to work as a gun lube in those temperatures.

[@daveodo4315]

JKSteve1124 I either use clp the same lubricant as the US or Canadian military for cold weather hunting or I totally degrease my hunting rifle. And I do not bring my rifle into any warmer heated areas If you do the gun will get ice or condensation on and inside it.

[@daveodo4315]

JKSteve1124 Remember this video was about motor oil. Not a good quality gun oil. You can do your own research on line. I live and hunt in environments that people outside of the north may not understand.

[@stevebot]

I live in AK. My solution to cold and wet? Synthetic marine 2 stroke engine oil for moving parts. Lower ash when it gets burned, also.

[@independentthinker8930]

I never oil the outside! A hard paste wax is my go to for that. Motor oil works great

[@duster0066]

I'm a waxer too. I'm in the Pacific NW. Wax works great on the outsides.

[@M--GT8223]

No offense, I like you guys. But I beg to differ... My IWB carry gun (Walther PPS) rusts horribly, especially inside the gun-- Mainly because the gun oil I was using (Hoppes) was too thin and wasn't clinging to the metal well enough. It's especially bad in the Summer for obvious reasons, and that's with cleaning it every week. But once I switched to 10W-30 high mileage, synthetic motor oil, problem solved. I still field strip, inspect & clean it once a week, but the rust is non-existent at this point. And, mechanically, the gun functions just as well, if not better.

[@renem6441]

That’s why I use a mix of ATF synthetic 50% / motor oil synthetic 50%

[@emoryfindley3081]

Ed’s Red- Modern Version

[@allenpowell1702]

I'm going to have to try that

[@Tactical-Practical-SajidShah]

I would recommend; 1) Use ATF oil for Barrel Cleaning (carbon remover), Firing Pin oiling (prevents any sludge). 2) Mix ATF and Grease (Abro Grease No. 2 for Rust & Corrosion), with 80% ATF & 20% Grease No.2. This Proportion is Excellent as Rust / Corrosion inhibitor, Long term preventive & smooth the performance of the gun. 3) For Rifles like AKM, just increase the proportion of Grease 40% with ATF 60%.

[@Tactical-Practical-SajidShah]

@@emoryfindley3081 Ed's Red is a Cleaner Not suitable for Oiling or Preventive. Yes you can Dip the Gun in that Solution, wipe it down and Use Proper Lubrication. If you need a ONE Solution as a CLP, then Mix ATF, Motor Oil (5w20) and Grease No.2. This Solution is All Rounder.

[@fredmyers485]

After switching my gun lube to Mobile 1 full synthetic, I get 20% more mileage per box of ammo 😂

[@thelastjohnwayne]

I like a Full Synthetic Motor Oil and like Steve said a quart goes a long way. And it does not dry out like most of the so-called gun oils do. I would like to find a good gun oil. Most of them do not seem to work.

[@LuigiPizza-fv2hv]

Most Gun Oils dry out in Weeks

[@thelastjohnwayne]

@@LuigiPizza-fv2hv You are right

[@derfaschist9687]

I mix motor oil and gun oil and results are very satisfactory. I use Yamaha 20-50w motor bike oil. Great stuff but i suggest liqui moly coz its high quality motor oil.

[@nammie12345]

Been using bacon grease myself, smells so nice as it cooks off. 20 years and no rust. Hmmmm

[@patrickgjorven7832]

Only crazy if it doesn't work!

[@brianmurphy1000]

Nah... salt in the grease. But it works great in my hair.

[@JohnDoeSmith08]

Also bacon grease keeps lips from chapping and hands from cracking. Use a little on your face too. The girls love it!

[@asas-mb4wj]

@@erwinwiesbauer9913 Theyve been using that and tallow from basically 1400-1900 so it must not be that bad

[@robertrobert7924]

I have been using rendered goose gease/oil in my muzzle loading bores for decades. Christmas Goose is roasted in the oven without any salt or spices. It makes the best patch lube I have ever used for shooting round balls. Were you responsible for the Indian Mutiny? How do you get the salt and sugar out of bacon grease???

[@Jake-mm1cz]

I have found the best grease for my firearms & just about anything else grease related is CRC Synthetic Brake Grease . Has Moly , Graphite & other lubricants . Apply with a toothpick or Q-tip . Approximately 8 to 10 dollars and last for a very long time . I have been using for a long time . Maybe you’ll do a video on your analysis .

[@User-qazws]

That is brilliant, & I already have some 👍

[@Bulldog75stp]

Wouldn't you want to protect the inside of the gun from rust too?

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I suggest Cerakote Elite for ccw or duty guns. Robar NP3+ is good too.

[@Bulldog75stp]

@@DavidLLambertmobile I prefer DLC.

[@vafornow]

If you use mobil 1 it offers rust protection.

[@mr.c.3760]

Keep 'em coming! Maybe you should do longer vids, like maybe do a rankings of best lubes to use using a plain FN, Colt, or SW AR15 as a control and seeing how many failures in 1000 rounds using dirty ammo

[@williamray3101]

I like breakfree. What we used in the army.

[@Mrpaint06]

@@John_Redcorn_ But definitely the low bidder.

[@tonydeaton2890]

Been using Pennzoil 10w40 for a couple decades. Works good as long as you don't get it on wood. You can use silicone, lightly applied, on wood and metal if you're looking for convenience. My safe is in my garage with my firearms exposed to temp and humidity changing constantly and they do fine. I actually think the humidity helps keep the wood from shrinking and loosening on older guns. They are checked 3 to 4 times a year and have never had a problem.

[@Oreguns85]

Do you have any issues with rust? Does the motor oil protect from rust pretty good compared to gun oil?

[@LLadnarr]

never heard this myth; however, I have been using Marvel Mystery Oil to clean and lubricate my firearms for years. Have not had any adverse effects yet.

[@duster0066]

You won't either. It's great for guns. These guys are selling products, and Marvel aint one of them. lol

[@hydjrasierra1557]

I used marvel too for a time and it worked fine.

[@ross8270]

I knew a guy who used the leftover grease from cooking chicken to lube his bolt action , did it work no idea but it smelled great when he fired it lol

[@RememberPele]

😂😂😂😂

[@rogerknight2267]

As a chicken owner, I’m hurt. BAHAHA!!!!!

[@danielswartz6818]

There are 2 different types of motor oil. Regular and synthetic oil. Difference is that regular motor oil beads on metal while synthetic spreads over the entire surface and it does not move so easily. Regular oil only protects the surface it's on after beading. Synthetic oil covers the entire bearing surface and thus protects against wear. Also synthetic motor oil comes in variable thicknesses, such as 0 - 30. Which means that when it's cold the oil is thinner at 0 and as the gun heats up the oil thickness changes to 30 providing more protection when most needed. In small clearance areas Remington gun oil seems to be the thinnest and will get into small areas. Some guns will not work well with heavier oils so you must experiment. But by far synthetic motor oil is best for auto guns. You just have to know where to apply it. They even make synthetic grease for slides as well. Brian Enos's Slide Guide. It's good for 600 rounds of competition shpoting. I use synthetic motor oil and grease and have over 30,000 rounds out of one of my range guns and it's just as tight as ********

[@Beardman56]

Motor oil doesn't thicken as it heats up. 5w30 will be 30 weight when cold and 5 weight when warm

[@brenthaddenham609]

I've been using automatic transmission fluid on the inside of ARS for 25 years works great cleans up nice

[@oldgoat1890]

I use it on all my guns. It is a rust cutter too.

[@Mr3030man]

I call BS on this one. Oil is oil guys.

[@Mr3030man]

@@John_Redcorn_ I have several LC Smith and AH Fox shotguns that have had nothing but Quaker State 10w-40 since the 30's. They are rust free and are still are great bird guns.

[@ilikedirtx22]

When I purchased my first modern sporting rifle I did not know to lube it so i ran it dry and it had a failure to feed after 200 rounds. Then started lubing the Bolt carrier group with 15W-50 mobil 1 and have had zero malfunctions since. I am still cleaning with CLP but for lubrication it is mobil 1 15W-50. And the motor oil is in a needle tip applicator bottle, they are sold on Amazon. 10 bottles for $8.98

[@hazcat640]

Being a 'shifty' guy I always use ATF. ;) and that coffee routine was 'smooth' :)

[@RestynPeece]

most high end motor oils contain rust inhibittors also. would really like to see physical evidence vs opnions or "because i said". That would be VERY helpful. the info on rust inhibitors in most oils is readily available on the internet from manufactturers.

[@brownells]

Then we shall test it!

[@RestynPeece]

excellent! looking forward to it ,thanks@@brownells

[@excelsior6365]

@@brownells Oh boy you are going up against internet FUD here. May I suggerst you get a small glass jar. Put in it 2 tlbs of motor oil and 2 tablespoons of water. Shake for 30 seconds. Come back a week later and see if you have mayonnaise or if the oil is displacing the water from contact with with glass. The thermostat in an engine does not open until the coolant is past the boiling point of water. Motor oil is not designed to displace water. It is designed to neutralize the sulfuric acid that forms in the exhaust. That is why the ARMY treated engines with MIL-L-644B lubrican, gen purpose, preservate after engines treated with motor oil showed up in Europe rusting. Steam power plants, locomotive and lathes all use oils much better suited for "gun oil" NAPA Auto parts sells 5 gallon buckets of Shell T32 Turbine oil, same thing is packaged as Zoom Turbine oil or 3 in 1 ELECTRIC motor oil. Industrial supply houses sell MOBIL VELOCITE No 6, a spindle oil. Both are "gun oils"

[@buellboy007]

Gun control is about racism and slavery This Patriotic Veteran approves this mesg Gun deaths There are 30,000 gun related deaths per year by firearms, and this number is not disputed. The U.S. population is 324,059,091 as of June 22, 2016. Do the math: 0.00925% of the population dies from gun related actions each year. Statistically speaking, this is insignificant! What is never told, however, is a breakdown of those 30,000 deaths, to put them in perspective as compared to other causes of death: • 65% of those deaths are by suicide, which would never be prevented by gun laws. • 15% are by law enforcement in the line of duty and justified. • 17% are through criminal activity, gang and drug related or mentally ill persons - better known as gun violence. • 3% are accidental discharge deaths. So technically, "gun violence" is not 30,000 annually, but drops to 5,100. Still too many? Now lets look at how those deaths spanned across the nation. • 480 homicides (9.4%) were in Chicago • 344 homicides (6.7%) were in Baltimore • 333 homicides (6.5%) were in Detroit • 119 homicides (2.3%) were in Washington D.C. (a 54% increase over prior years) So basically, 25% of all gun crime happens in just 4 cities. All 4 of those cities have strict gun laws, so it is not the lack of law that is the root cause. This basically leaves 3,825 for the entire rest of the nation, or about 75 deaths per state. That is an average because some States have much higher rates than others. For example, California had 1,169 and Alabama had 1. Now, who has the strictest gun laws by far? California, of course, but understand, it is not guns causing this. It is a crime rate spawned by the number of criminal persons residing in those cities and states. So if all cities and states are not created equal, then there must be something other than the tool causing the gun deaths. Are 5,100 deaths per year horrific? How about in comparison to other deaths? All death is sad and especially so when it is in the commission of a crime but that is the nature of crime. Robbery, death, rape, assault are all done by criminals. It is ludicrous to think that criminals will obey laws. That is why they are called criminals. But what about other deaths each year? • 40,000+ die from a drug overdose-THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THAT! • 36,000 people die per year from the flu, far exceeding the criminal gun deaths. • 34,000 people die per year in traffic fatalities(exceeding gun deaths even if you include suicide). Now it gets good: • 200,000+ people die each year (and growing) from preventable medical errors. You are safer walking in the worst areas of Chicago than you are when you are in a hospital! • 710,000 people die per year from heart disease. It’s time to stop the double cheeseburgers! So what is the point? If the liberal loons and the anti-gun movement focused their attention on heart disease, even a 10% decrease in cardiac deaths would save twice the number of lives annually of all gun-related deaths (including suicide, law enforcement, etc.). A 10% reduction in medical errors would be 66% of the total number of gun deaths or 4 times the number of criminal homicides ................ Simple, easily preventable 10% reductions! So you have to ask yourself, in the grand scheme of things, why the focus on guns? It's pretty simple: Taking away guns gives control to governments. The founders of this nation knew that regardless of the form of government, those in power may become corrupt and seek to rule as the British did by trying to disarm the populace of the colonies. It is not difficult to understand that a disarmed populace is a controlled populace. Thus, the second amendment was proudly and boldly included in the U.S. Constitution. It must be preserved at all costs. So the next time someone tries to tell you that gun control is about saving lives, look at these facts and remember these words from Noah Webster: "Before a standing army can rule, the people must be disarmed." What ever happen to up hold the Oath of office to protect and up hold the CONSTITUTION of the USA....NOT MAKE YOUR OWN RULES/LAWS...

[@hunterparrish277]

Ive been using amsoil 20w-50 zrod oil for some years now and I’d have to say it works pretty good. Now one time I did dunk a Wilson combat into a 5 gallon bucket of gear lube. Talk about a gun staying oiled for a while. I’m pretty sure it soaked into the steel somehow.

[@GLOCKCOPG23]

Synthetic Motor oil has “cling-a-fyers” (not a word…I know) that keeps a microscopic layer of oil on the surface of the metal even after the majority has run or been burned off. They are designed to perform under super high temps and pressures with dirt and carbon mixed in (like a gun). Rust inhibitors???…Oil in itself is a rust inhibiter. When have you seen a maintained engine rusted on the inside? Answer: You won’t. The gun lube companies want you to spend big bucks on their products. Many of these products work well (and some don’t) but they are unnecessarily costly. Buy a quart of Mobil 1 10-W30 and use it sparingly. You will have a lifetime supply of “gun oil” for $5. Synthetic motor oil is simply GREAT for firearms….Period.

[@DC9716]

I have a friend that uses 50W motor oil on his 1911's and has for years. Don't know if he uses it on the outside or not but loves for the mechanics of his pistols.

[@NevadaMirage]

Here come all the bubbas to insist their lube preference is the most righteous.

[@pmor5992]

so glad you chimed in bubba ;-)

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Bubba sez: get Froglube Extreme ✅. Non toxic, no fumes, prevents rust. Ballistol spray is + too. Great for 🎣🚤🏕🏡. Springs, hinges, latches, rubber, wood, steel.

[@Leatherbark]

These guys are between a rock and hard place. The older knows the motor oil is just as good. The younger guy has to work for a living longer than the older guy. I'll bet Brownell's sells gun oil............They seemed to reach a compromise.............

[@danielmaine45]

Would love to see actual tests and physical examples from this. I have been using a motor oil on guns, both parkerized and blued. Store them in a safe that is not in a climate controlled room that experiences yearly temperature swings in excess of 100 degrees F. No rust whatsoever....A thin coat of oil is just that, a thin coat of oil and it keeps oxygen and moisture off the metal.

[@PC-vq5ud]

Ten years ago I purchased a gallon of M Pro 7 LPX. It stays on the guns better than any other oil I have tried. I'm probably going to have to put some of it in my will. A gallon was too much.