Norton's Universal Cleaning Sticks Review

Norton’s Universal Cleaning Sticks (UCS) are super simple, yet super useful cleaning tools. They are a much better option than using a toothpick to reach all of the gunk in your gun. I know that I’ve broken plenty of those, but no more. Norton’s UCSs are thin, chemical resistant plastic sticks about the size of a popsicle sticks. They are designed to help you reach the little nooks and crannies of your firearms. Each end is sloped to a point. You can fold a cleaning patch over the end, and pass it along rails, under extractors, against bolt faces, and such, to get the crud out of the hard-to-reach areas. You can also use them to gently pry under the disassembly bars of Beretta and 1911 style pistols. They are also small enough to throw in a cleaning kit, and forget about them, until they’re needed.

A forum member on m1911.org, allstop, reported that his UCSs did not hold up to Hoppe’s No. 9 solvent. He said that it began to eat away at the sticks during his very first use. See his thread on the subject here. Seeing this, I decided to chop one up, and test it. I soaked one piece in Hoppe’s No. 9 solvent and another in Rand CLP. These were the only two things I had on hand, so it’s all I tested. I let them soak, completely covered, for about 6 hours, and there was no damage. I then took them from being completely covered and removed most of the fluid. I figured that maybe the air exposure mixed with the chemical may have a different reaction than the full submersion, but this was not the case. They sat partially covered for about a week and, still, there were no signs of deformation. Allstop did have the orange UCS, and I tested the green, so there may be a variance in material there, but I doubt it. I believe they may have changed their formula to make them more chemical resistant, since his original post dates back to October of 2007.

They are sturdy, useful and cheap. There’s not really a whole lot to say about them, except: Get some!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “Used to help provide complete cleaning and assist in the disassembly of modern weapon systems.” – CountyComm website

Target Market: Firearms owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Thin
• Sturdy
• Flexible
• Inexpensive
• Chemical Resistant
• Gets all the gunk out

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Norton’s UCS are available in many colors, including Neon Green, Orange, Brown, Yellow, and Green.

What others are saying?: Some users have had corrosion problems with solvent, but I have not seen this to be the case. Others seem to really like them.

“Cheap in price, but not in quality.” – cutlerylover

Price Point:

• MSRP = $1.25

I need it now! Availability: You can get Norton's Universal Cleaning Sticks from CountyComm.com

Our Rating:

+-Useful +-Sturdy +-Inexpensive

Score: 8.5 

Bacon Grease Gun Lube by The Shooting Chef Review

As a competitor shooter, making sure that gun shoots every time I pull the trigger is super important. Proper lubrication will keep rust away and will allow the gun to cycle easily even when your loads are not consistent.  ).  One guy mentioned his new gun smells like Bacon, another mentioned his dog went crazy over his range bag. I was thinking to myself, are they really using bacon fat? Or maybe grease left over from frying bacon for breakfast?

After getting to know the guys I asked about it and learned that Bacon Grease is a gun lube made of a blend of synthetic and natural ingredients created by one of the top shooters in the area, Ken Cobb (USPSA Master in Open & limited, IDPA Master in 3 divisions).  This lube is not just for competition shooters, it’s also for your AR15 and your home defense Desert Eagle (what? Do you have anything smaller on your nightstand?!)  The manufacturer promises that “a thin coat of this clear grease will repel moisture and prevent rust”.  In my experience at the last state match, my Glock 34 went through 300 rounds 2 days in a row without a single hiccup while others had malfunctions all around me (yes, even Glock shooters).  Oh, in case you didn’t figure it out by now, IT SMELLS LIKE BACON!!!!  I thought it’s better than the usual motor oil fragrance…

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “The best lube you will ever use on your firearms”

 Target Market: Firearms owners

 FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 15ml in a syringe tube
• Pressure Resistance
• Blend of synthetic and natural ingredients
• Anti-shear properties, which make it ideal for rails and lugs
• Repel moisture
• Prevent rust
• SMELLS LIKE BACON!

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Only comes in Bacon scent.

What others are saying?: This product had been a well-protected secret used among some of the top USPSA/IDPA shooters and they swear by it.

Price Point: 

• MSRP = $12.00
• Retail = $8.99

I need it now! Availability: Readily available on-line at stores like Big D Armory.

Our Rating:

+_Works very well to provide smooth repeatable action. +_Prevents Rust +_Priced Reasonably +_Did we mention IT SMELLS LIKE BACON!

-_Not everyone likes the smell of Bacon (Who are these people?!) -_Drives the dog crazy

Score: 9.0 Amazing

FIREClean Review

Fireclean gun oil is one of the best gun oils I have used to date.  It does everything it should do and more. It lubricates, protects, cleans, and most importantly it helps reduce carbon buildup.  While using Fireclean I have found that my rimfire's will shoot for a longer number of rounds and are easier to clean. The carbon and even lead deposits seem to just wipe off.  When using this oil with a suppressor on an AR15 there is less buildup of gunk on the bolt carrier.  Fireclean lubricates extremely well, it makes rifles and pistols cycle smoother and is better than any other oil I have used.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  A gun oil that repels carbon fouling, is non-toxic, odorless, biodegradable, sticks to metal, heat resistant and made in the U.S.A.

Target Market:  All gun owners but more in tune with suppressed or full auto firearms users.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):  From product website: "While odorless, biodegradable, and safe, FIREClean destroys carbon contamination and helps prevent future fouling. FIREClean conditions metal - to resist carbon and other fouling buildup as well as providing durable lubricity."

• Lubricates
• Cleans
• Repels Carbon
• Absorbs into metal for lasting protection
• Available in 2 fluid oz bottles

What others are saying?:

• "Best I've Used"  "Surprisingly Great"  "Awesome Stuff" on Amazon with 4.7/5 stars
• "The Best Oil"  "Amazing Product"  "Best Oil I have ever used" on Brownells with 4.9/5 stars

Price Point:

• MSRP = $29.90 for a 2 pack
• Retail = $14.95

I need it now! Availability:  Readily available at Amazon and Brownells.

Our Rating:

+ Carbon just doesn't seem to build up + Excellent oil + Non-Toxic + Long Lasting Lubrication + Small amount goes a long way

- Not the best at cleaning, but it does make cleaning easier after the initial oiling

Score: 9.0 Amazing! 

Chad's Favorite Link:

Tactical Paradise

SEAL1 CLP

I met Dwight Settle, the managing director of Seal1 CLP while at SHOT Show 2014.  Dwight’s personally owned P226 was fully submerged in a fish tank of water to show the protecting properties of Seal1 CLP.  Dwight removed his Sig from the tank and whatever water didn’t sheet off, beaded on the surface; not a speck of rust on the entire gun, either.

I have to admit I was a little hesitant to hear about another all-in-one cleaning supply with claims of greatness.  I reluctantly began a conversation with Dwight about his products, expecting to hear outrageous claims of grandeur and knocks on his competitor’s products.  I was pleasantly surprised with how our conversation went and Dwight’s story.  Dwight's business partner Scott Lee was the original developer of a competing product but due to various circumstances, left the business to begin his own venture with Dwight.  Dwight has an extensive background working with firearms (to include military service as a S.E.A.L.) and has now dedicated his civilian career to developing quality firearms cleaning and lubrication products.  Dwight made realistic claims regarding the performance of his product and backed it up with various firearms at the show to prove results.

Long story short, Dwight has succeeded.  After returning from SHOT Show 2014, I used my samples of Seal1 to clean and lubricate my AR, M&P 9mm, and Sig P229.  I’ve run all of them on several occasions since application without cleaning them and haven’t had a single hiccup.  I’ve run the most rounds through my P229 (500 in one sitting, in addition to more rounds during other sittings) and the firearm performed flawlessly.  All of that is great, but here is the better part: cleanup was quick and easy.  I am fairly attentive to detail when I clean my firearms so I have been known to stay in the garage for 2+ hours cleaning just 1 handgun.  When using Seal1, my cleaning time was cut by over half, because I just wiped on, wiped off, and the part was clean.  Not having to clean then come back and lubricate was a huge timesaver.  I used standard bore patches and square cotton rags to clean all of the parts with the Seal1 paste I used.

Seal1 comes in a paste, liquid, aerosol can, and pretreated patch forms.  All perform the same so customers can pick whichever texture they prefer.  The three variations all serve the same purpose and function, with the paste being the original base product.  A carrying compound is added to the paste which makes the liquid version, which is also used in the aerosol sprayer.  The manufacturer recommends applying the product to a warm gun so it can soak in faster, but it isn’t absolutely necessary.  Once applied 2-3 times, full saturation will result and your gun will be properly “seasoned” for full strength lasting protection.  Even better, the more times it is used, the easier your gun becomes to clean.  Who can argue with that?  In addition, my understanding is this stuff usually doesn’t play well with petroleum based cleaning or lubrication products.  Once you make the decision to use Seal1, I’d recommend sticking with it and not rotating back and forth between Seal1 and a petroleum product.  I am pretty confident Seal1 won’t disappoint you, so I don’t think you’ll have a desire to switch to your old products anyways.

My only complaint is that Seal1 is not readily available in local stores, at least as far as I can tell.  Every trade show brings more and more retailers which is always good, so the best thing you can do is keep hounding your local gun shop to carry Seal1.  It is available on a handful of websites including Amazon, but the more the merrier as far as I am concerned.

I highly recommend Seal1 products.  After using Seal1, I rid my gun cleaning cabinet of all the horrible smelling cleaning products (Hoppes anyone?) because I simply don’t need them anymore.  No more kicking the family out of the area when cleaning guns...now my kids can pitch in and help for a change!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  A “green engineered” bio-based cleaner, lubricant, and protectant.

Target Market:  Anyone who uses firearms and likes to keep them properly cleaned and maintained.

FNBs (Features and Benefits of this product):

• Non-toxic
• Cleans carbon and other fouling with relative ease
• A nice smelling gun cleaner you can use without having to hold your breath

What options are available?:  Paste, liquid, aerosol and pre-soaked patches.

What others are saying?:

• Amazon customers give Seal1 all positive 5 star reviews.

Price Point:

• MSRP = 4oz paste: $9.95, 4oz liquid: $12.95, Complete Kit: $29.49
• Retail = 4oz paste: $9.95, 4oz liquid: $12.95, Complete Kit: $29.49 at Amazon.com

I need it now! Availability: Available at a handful of online locations.

Our Rating:

+ Fresh minty smell is a welcome change from caustic smelling alternatives. + Cleaning and lubing in one product saves at least 50% of your time. + Made 100% in the USA and Seal1 is a service-disabled veteran owned business.

-  Availability is limited to only a small handful of websites, including Amazon.

Score: 9.0

Steve’s links: firearmsradio.tv

FrogLube CLP Lubricant

By Ryan Cross

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame The World’s Only Complete ‘Green’ Weapons Care System. USDA Certified Bio-Based Product. Eliminates Residue. Non-Flammable. Non-Toxic. Improves Accuracy. Developed by former and active duty U.S. Navy SEALs.

Target Market All Gun Owners High round-count shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits) Froglube CLP is available in liquid, paste or cloth wipes in multiple volume quantities.

From product website: “FrogLube is a heavy specific gravity “food grade” mixture that seeps deep into the micro spaces of the metal and acts as if to ‘season’  the surface of the bore, any friction points and all areas treated with the lube. Once treated, fouling particles resist bonding to metal surfaces;  instead, they easily wipe away or brush off the surface. This also applies to other loose fouling particles such as dirt, dust and sand.  FrogLube does not film, nor is it a coating. Instead it is a treatment that is absorbed throughout the firearm.  It is water insoluble and will repel water and resist corrosion.”

Solvent variety in spray bottle is also available, but CLP works pretty well in breaking up carbon if applied, left to set for approximately 15mins, and then wiped off.

Key Benefits Makes firearms more accurate (through decrease friction and mechanical wear). Cleans, Lubricates and Prevents Rust (CLP) by embedding deep into the metal’s pores. Repels water, dirt, and other particulates. Does not require baking or special preparation of surface, but heated metal will accept      the ‘Frog Love’ better. Harmless to plastic and rubber. Wipes can be cut into smaller squares and used as bore patches.

What others are saying? “Simply the best product you can buy. FrogLube eliminates all lubrication related problems. Clean up is a breeze. All of my customer are amazed with their firearms after I do a FrogLube application. It is the only lubrication product I recommend.”         - Premier Shooting LLC

“As long as they keep making this stuff, and as long as they don’t change the formula, and as long as it keeps working, I’ll keep using FrogLube.” - www.guntorturetests.com

Price point (MSRP versus actual retail) MSRP: Liquid 4 oz. bottle $19.00, Paste 4 oz. jar $12.00, Wipes 5 pack $8.99, Solvent Spray bottle $34.00, Complete set available at $49.99

 I need it now! Availability  Dealer Map Official FrogShop Promised Land Firearms

Our Rating – I really enjoy Froglube as an addition to my cleaning kit. The liquid is great for internals and moving parts: just a few drops on the bolt and work the action a few times, and it’s covered. It is only a little more expensive per ounce than other products, but then again you only need to use small amounts so it will last you longer and it's also not a great substitute for toothpaste, trust me.

+ Liquid form doesn’t evaporate like other lubes + Viscosity of liquid form is just right, not too thick to gum up moving parts and not too thin to run all over the place + A little bit goes along way, it won’t evaporate like other lubes + Wipes are great for treating barrels (especially bead blasted stainless steel or other finishes that need rust protection) or cut into smaller square patches, making bore cleaning a snap. + Smells and tastes like wintergreen flavored gum, it’s quite pleasant actually.

Score 9.0 Amazing!

Featured FFL: Promised Land Firearms

Ryan Cross’ Links: Hunter of Design