I remember the first time I cleaned my old firearm in a hot, stuffy garage. My wrists were pink, my nose was stinging, and I was certain that every inhale clogged a few more brain cells. That day, it occurred to me that there has to be a better way to clean a gun than while choking on chemical fumes.
And guess what? There is.
If you are like me, someone passionate about shooting but who also dreads the thought of soaking your gun and lungs in the nastiest of chemicals, this guide is for you. Allow me to explain how I finally moved to a CLP gun cleaner that works, without all of the nasty side effects.
Why Toxic Chemicals Are a Problem in Gun Cleaning
Many traditional gun cleaners contain solvents that can be aggressive, leaving behind a nasty residue such as
- Ammonia
- Petroleum distillates
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
A few chemicals that are effective in removing fouling and carbon will also:
- Irritates skin and eyes
- Produce harmful fumes
- Damage certain firearm finishes
- Leave behind hazardous residues
In crowded spaces, it can accumulate with repeated use. For responsible shooters and professionals, the search for safer alternatives that offer the same or improved performance makes perfect sense.
What Is a CLP Gun Cleaner?
CLP stands for Clean, Lubricate, and Protect. It’s one bottle that does three jobs:
- It cleans dirt and gunk off your gun
- It puts oil on the moving parts to help them work better
- It protects your gun from rust and damage
So instead of using three different things, you just use one. It’s simple and saves time. While choosing a CLP gun cleaner, you should keep in mind that the ingredients must be non-toxic and biodegradable and have low to no odor. It should work on all gun materials, such as metal, polymer, wood, etc.
More Equipment for Gun Scrubbing
The cleaner is the heart of your maintenance routine, but your cleaning kit should include more good-quality gun cleaning supplies.
Key items to include:
- Bore snakes or cleaning rods (with the correct bore guides)
- Nylon or brass brushes for scrubbing off fouling
- Microfibre cloths for wipe-downs and dryings
- Bore and chamber cleaning patch, lint-free
- Cotton swabs or picks for hard-to-reach areas
It is then that your weapon is not only being cleaned but also being kept scratch-free and damage-free from lesser materials by using compatible tools.
How to Utilize a Non-Toxic CLP Gun Cleaning Material
Using a non-toxic CLP, here is a step-by-step on how to clean your firearm:
- Disassemble the firearm as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use the CLP on the bore, bolt, chamber, and other dirty places.
- Let the cleaner dwell for 30–60 seconds.
- Using a soft brush or bore snake, scrub the carbon deposits out.
- Remove the excess using microfiber cloths or patches.
- Use CLP sparingly to lubricate contact points.
- Put the gun back together and function test it.
Even a well-made CLP does not require extra degreasers, oils, or protectants.
How frequently do you need to clean your weapon?
It is equally essential to know when to clean your firearm as it is how to maintain your gun. Regular cleanings prevent buildup, provide smoother movements, and also extend the lifetime of your gun.
Here is a general guide:
- After every use: For carrying guns, range sessions, and hunting trips
- Every couple of weeks, if the gun is secured but not shot
- Right away: When exposed to rain, humid environments, or dusty conditions
- Clean and lightly coat all parts with oil to prevent rust before long-term storage
Moisture and dust could harm your gun even if it remains unfired for a while. An occasional checkup keeps everything ticking without adding toxic health expenses or inconvenience.
Why Using Non-Toxic Gun Cleaner Is A Good Option
When you feel comfortable and convert to a non-toxic cleaner, it can be a wise choice for your health and also for the things you own.
Main Advantages:
- Safe indoor use
- No harmful fumes or residue
- Reduced skin irritation
- Environmentally friendly disposal
- For old-school and new-school guns alike
It also provides safer work environments for professionals, instructors, or high-volume shooters and fewer health risks over time.
Searching for the Best: Forsaken Industries
One brand you can trust is Forsaken Industries. Their CLP cleaning oil is safe, non-toxic, and breaks down naturally, so you can clean your gun well without breathing bad smells or hurting your skin. It is effective on all types and materials of firearms, and thus, simplifies and secures maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Gun care is changing. Today’s shooters are better informed and more health-conscious. If you’re still clinging to a habit of using harsh chemical solvents, it’s time to replace them with something better.
Always choose a tried and tested alternative: lay your filthy hands on the CLP and you will get a maximum level of cleaning and protection with no nasty side effects. Combine it with a full line of their gun cleaning supplies to develop a safe, efficient, and long-lasting maintenance kit for your firearm.
