Gun Scrubber vs. Brake Cleaner: Which should you choose?

Maintaining your firearms is crucial for their longevity and performance. Using the right cleaning products is a big part of this process. Two popular options are gun scrubber and brake cleaner. While both can clean your firearms, they have significant differences.

Let’s dive into what each product is, how they compare, and which one you should use.

What is Gun Scrubber?

Gun scrubber is specifically designed for cleaning firearms. It’s a high-powered solvent that removes fouling, oil, and residue from your gun’s action, barrel, and other parts. Typically, gun scrubbers contain a mix of solvents like ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol, which are effective at dissolving gunpowder, carbon, and other deposits.

Products like Birchwood Casey Gun Scrubber and Hoppe’s Elite Gun Cleaner are popular choices among gun enthusiasts.

What is Brake Cleaner?

Brake cleaner, on the other hand, is originally intended for cleaning brake parts in vehicles. It removes grease, brake dust, and other contaminants from brake components. The main ingredients often include acetone, toluene, and methylene chloride. These powerful solvents can dissolve oils and grime quickly.

Brands like CRC Brakleen and 3M High Power Brake Cleaner are commonly used. Some firearm owners use brake cleaner for gun cleaning because it’s readily available and inexpensive.

Comparing Gun Scrubber and Brake Cleaner

Both gun scrubber and brake cleaner are effective at removing dirt and grime from firearms, but they have significant differences that make each product suitable for different purposes.

Chemical Composition: Gun scrubbers and brake cleaners have different chemical formulations. Gun scrubbers are specifically designed for firearms and typically contain solvents like ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol. These ingredients are chosen for their ability to dissolve gunpowder residue, carbon, and other fouling without harming the materials used in firearms.

Brake cleaners, on the other hand, contain stronger solvents such as acetone, toluene, and methylene chloride. These chemicals are highly effective at cutting through grease and grime on metal surfaces but can be too harsh for the more delicate materials found in firearms.

Effectiveness: Both products are effective at cleaning, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the type of residue and the material being cleaned. Gun scrubbers are highly effective at removing gunpowder residue, carbon deposits, and oils specific to firearms.

They are gentle enough to use on all parts of a gun, including plastic, rubber, and wood components. Brake cleaners are excellent at dissolving oils, grease, and dirt quickly, making them very effective for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. However, their aggressive solvents can cause damage to non-metal parts over time.

Safety for Firearm Materials: One of the main advantages of gun scrubber is its safety for all firearm materials. It is formulated to be non-damaging to metal, plastic, rubber, and wood. This makes it a versatile and reliable option for comprehensive gun cleaning.

In contrast, brake cleaner’s harsher chemicals can degrade or even damage non-metal parts of firearms. Prolonged use of brake cleaner on plastic, rubber, or wood can lead to brittleness, discoloration, and deterioration, which compromises the integrity of the firearm.

Ease of Use: Gun scrubbers are designed with the user in mind. They often come in aerosol cans equipped with precision nozzles, allowing for targeted application. This makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas and ensures that the solvent is applied where it’s needed most. The user-friendly design of gun scrubbers reduces the risk of overspray and wastage.

Brake cleaners, while available in similar aerosol formats, are not always as precise. Their primary use in the automotive industry means they are geared towards cleaning large metal surfaces, and this lack of precision can make them less ideal for detailed firearm cleaning.

Pros and Cons of Using Gun Scrubber

Gun scrubbers are specifically formulated to clean firearms, making them a top choice for gun owners who want to ensure their firearms are properly maintained. Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of using gun scrubber in detail.

Pros of Using Gun Scrubber

1. Formulated for Firearms: Gun scrubbers are designed with firearms in mind. They contain solvents that effectively break down gunpowder residue, carbon deposits, oils, and other contaminants that accumulate in firearms. This targeted formulation ensures thorough cleaning without damaging the gun’s materials.

2. Safe for All Gun Materials: One of the standout benefits of gun scrubbers is their safety for various firearm materials. They are formulated to be non-damaging to metal, plastic, rubber, and wood.

This makes them versatile and reliable, as you can use them on all parts of your gun without worrying about causing harm.

3. Effective Cleaning: Gun scrubbers are highly effective at removing the residues that result from firing a gun. This includes burnt powder, carbon buildup, and lubricants that can attract dirt and grime.

Regular use of gun scrubber helps maintain the gun’s functionality and prevents malfunctions caused by residue buildup.

4. User-Friendly Design: Most gun scrubbers come in aerosol cans with precision nozzles, making them easy to use. The precision nozzles allow for targeted application, ensuring the solvent reaches hard-to-reach areas.

This design minimizes wastage and ensures efficient cleaning.

5. Quick Drying: Gun scrubbers typically evaporate quickly, leaving behind a clean, dry surface. This quick drying time means you can clean your firearm and have it ready for use again in a short period, without worrying about residue or the need for extensive drying.

Cons of Using Gun Scrubber

1. Higher Cost: Gun scrubbers tend to be more expensive than general-purpose cleaners like brake cleaners. The specialized formulation and the fact that they are designed specifically for firearms contribute to their higher price.

For gun owners on a tight budget, this cost difference can be a significant factor.

2. Limited Availability: While gun scrubbers are available in many stores that sell firearms and hunting supplies, they may not be as widely available as brake cleaners. This can be an inconvenience if you run out of gun scrubber and need to purchase more quickly, especially if you don’t have easy access to specialty stores.

3. Less Versatile: The specialized nature of gun scrubbers means they are less versatile than general-purpose cleaners. While they excel at cleaning firearms, they may not be as effective for other cleaning tasks around the home or workshop.

This limited versatility can be a drawback if you’re looking for a multi-purpose cleaner.

4. Environmental and Health Considerations: Like many solvents, gun scrubbers can pose health risks if not used properly. They often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities.

Additionally, improper disposal can have negative environmental impacts. It’s important to use gun scrubbers in well-ventilated areas and follow all safety guidelines for use and disposal.

Pros and Cons of Using Brake Cleaner

Pros of Using Brake Cleaner

1. Cost-Effective: One of the biggest advantages of brake cleaner is its cost-effectiveness. Brake cleaners are generally cheaper than gun-specific cleaning products.

For gun owners looking to save money on maintenance supplies, brake cleaner offers a budget-friendly alternative.

2. Widely Available: Brake cleaners are easy to find. They are stocked in most automotive supply stores, hardware stores, and even some general retail stores. This wide availability makes it convenient to purchase brake cleaner without having to visit a specialty store.

3. Fast Acting: Brake cleaners are known for their powerful and fast-acting solvents. They are designed to quickly dissolve grease, oil, and grime, making the cleaning process faster.

This can be particularly useful when you need to clean a firearm quickly and efficiently.

4. Strong Cleaning Power: The strong solvents in brake cleaner are highly effective at cutting through tough residues. They can remove stubborn deposits of oil and dirt that may have built up over time, ensuring a thorough clean.

This makes brake cleaner a powerful option for heavily soiled firearms.

Cons of Using Brake Cleaner

1. Harsh Chemicals: Brake cleaners contain aggressive solvents like acetone, toluene, and methylene chloride. While these chemicals are great for dissolving grease and grime, they can be too harsh for some materials found in firearms.

Over time, repeated exposure to these solvents can lead to damage.

2. Potential Damage to Non-Metal Parts: One of the main drawbacks of using brake cleaner on firearms is the risk of damaging non-metal parts. Brake cleaners can degrade plastic, rubber, and wood components. This damage may not be immediately noticeable, but it can lead to brittleness, discoloration, and deterioration over time.

3. Health Risks: The strong solvents in brake cleaner pose health risks if not used properly. Inhalation of fumes can cause respiratory issues, and skin contact can lead to irritation or burns.

It is essential to use brake cleaner in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and eyewear to minimize these risks.

4. Environmental Impact: Brake cleaners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to environmental pollution. Improper disposal of brake cleaner can harm the environment, so it is important to follow local regulations for hazardous waste disposal.

5. Not Specifically Designed for Firearms: Unlike gun scrubbers, brake cleaners are not formulated with firearms in mind. While they can clean gun parts, they lack the specialized properties that make gun scrubbers safe and effective for all parts of a firearm.

This can lead to less optimal cleaning results and potential long-term damage.

Safety Considerations

Both gun scrubber and brake cleaner are effective cleaning agents, but they contain strong solvents that can pose health and safety risks if not used correctly. Here’s what you need to know to use them safely:

Ventilation: Always use these products in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from the solvents can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts. Using them outdoors or in a space with good airflow can help minimize the risk of respiratory issues.

Protective Gear: Wearing protective gear is essential. Gloves protect your skin from irritation and potential chemical burns. Eye protection, such as safety goggles, helps prevent any accidental splashes from reaching your eyes.

Flammability: Both gun scrubber and brake cleaner are highly flammable. Keep them away from open flames, sparks, and high heat. This includes not smoking while using these products and ensuring that your work area is free from ignition sources.

Proper Disposal: Proper disposal of these chemicals is crucial to avoid environmental harm. Do not pour them down the drain, as they can contaminate water sources. Instead, follow your local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Many communities have designated facilities or collection events for safely disposing of such materials.

Handling Spills: In case of a spill, clean it up immediately while wearing protective gear. Use absorbent materials like paper towels or cloths and dispose of them properly as hazardous waste.

User Experiences and Expert Opinions

When it comes to firearm maintenance, the preferences and opinions of users and experts can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different cleaning products. Here’s a detailed look at what both groups have to say about gun scrubbers and brake cleaners:

Gun Scrubbers:

User Experiences: Many gun owners prefer gun scrubbers for their cleaning needs. They often highlight the product’s effectiveness in removing gunpowder residue, carbon deposits, and oils without harming the firearm. Users appreciate that gun scrubbers are specifically designed for firearms, which means they can safely be used on all parts of the gun, including metal, plastic, rubber, and wood components.

Testimonials frequently mention that gun scrubbers make the cleaning process straightforward and efficient, thanks to their user-friendly design, such as aerosol cans with precision nozzles that reach hard-to-access areas.

Expert Opinions: Experts in the field of firearm maintenance also endorse gun scrubbers. They emphasize that these products are formulated to handle the specific types of fouling and residues found in firearms. This targeted formulation ensures that gun scrubbers clean effectively without causing damage.

Experts recommend using gun scrubbers for regular maintenance to keep firearms in optimal condition. They point out that consistent use of gun scrubber helps prevent malfunctions and extends the lifespan of the firearm.

Brake Cleaners:

User Experiences: Some gun owners opt for brake cleaners as a more cost-effective alternative. They find that brake cleaners are readily available and effective at quickly dissolving grease, oil, and grime. Users who choose brake cleaners often mention the convenience and speed of cleaning, particularly for heavily soiled firearms. However, these users also tend to caution against regular use of brake cleaners.

They note that the harsh chemicals in brake cleaners can damage non-metal parts of the firearm, such as plastic and rubber components, over time. As a result, brake cleaners are often seen as a temporary solution or a stopgap measure when gun scrubbers are not available.

Expert Opinions: Experts generally advise against the regular use of brake cleaners on firearms. They acknowledge the strong cleaning power of brake cleaners but warn about the potential long-term damage to firearm materials. The aggressive solvents in brake cleaners are not designed for the delicate parts of a gun, which can lead to deterioration and malfunctions with repeated use.

Experts recommend reserving brake cleaners for occasional, emergency use only and stress the importance of using products specifically formulated for firearms for regular maintenance.

Reviews and Testimonials: Both reviews and testimonials from gun owners and experts highlight that while brake cleaners can be a useful, temporary solution for quick cleaning, gun scrubbers are the preferred choice for maintaining firearms in the long run.

Users consistently report better overall results and greater peace of mind when using gun scrubbers. The consensus is that the investment in a product specifically designed for firearms is worth it for the safety and longevity of the gun.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both gun scrubber and brake cleaner can clean your firearms, gun scrubber is the better choice for long-term use. It’s specifically designed for firearms, ensuring safety for all parts of your gun. Brake cleaner can be a quick, budget-friendly alternative, but its harsh chemicals pose a risk to non-metal components. Prioritize your firearm’s safety and maintenance by choosing the right product for your needs.