CLP vs. Gun Solvent: Best Cleaner for AR-15 & Tactical Use

Wondering if CLP or gun solvent is better for your AR-15? This tactical-use guide compares both sides by side, revealing which cleaner keeps your rifle running reliably in high-stress conditions. Get expert insight and real-world recommendations.

Applying Forsaken Industries CLP gun cleaner to AR-15 bolt carrier group on branded gun cleaning mat

Real-world comparison of CLP and standard gun solvents for carbon removal, rust protection, and reliability under fire.

Whether you're cleaning your everyday carry pistol, suppressor-ready rifle, or battle-worn AR-15, you've likely asked:

“Is CLP really enough, or do I still need traditional gun solvent and oil?”

This guide dives into the real differences between CLP and standard gun cleaners, so you can make the best call for your firearms, not just your workbench.

What Is CLP Gun Cleaner?

CLP stands for Cleaner, Lubricant, and Protectant. Originally developed for the military under MIL-SPEC 63460, CLP is designed to:

  • Clean carbon fouling and powder residue
  • Lubricate high-friction parts like bolts, slides, and triggers
  • Protect metal surfaces from corrosion and rust

Why Shooters Use CLP:

  • ✅ One-step process for cleaning and lubing
  • ✅ Compact for range bags or field kits
  • ✅ Performs in extreme temps — hot, cold, dusty, or humid
  • ✅ Safe for all finishes — cerakote, parkerized, stainless, etc.

What Is a Standard Gun Cleaning System?

Standard firearm maintenance uses multiple products:

  1. Gun Solvent/Bore Cleaner – Dissolves baked-on carbon, copper, and lead fouling
  2. Gun Oil – Lubricates moving parts
  3. Protectant Spray – Shields metal from rust or moisture

Why Some Shooters Prefer This:

  • 🔧 Precision control over each phase of cleaning
  • 🧪 Specialized formulas (like copper removers or CLP alternatives)
  • 🎯 Ideal for match-grade barrels, suppressor hosts, and high-volume shooting

CLP vs. Gun Solvent: Comparison Table

Feature CLP Gun Cleaner Traditional Solvent & Oil
Steps Needed ✅ One-step process ❌ Multi-step: clean, oil, protect
Carbon Removal ⚠️ Moderate ✅ Strong & aggressive
Rust Prevention ✅ Long-lasting film ✅ Strong (if treated with protectant)
Time Efficiency ✅ Fast & portable ❌ Takes more time
Performance in Cold/Heat ✅ Resists freezing/gumming ⚠️ Depends on oil formula
Cost-Effectiveness ✅ 1 bottle for 3 jobs ❌ Multiple purchases

Is CLP Enough to Clean an AR-15?

Yes — for routine maintenance, a high-quality CLP will clean, lubricate, and protect your AR-15 or any modern sporting rifle.

But if you’ve run a few hundred rounds, especially suppressed, or are dealing with heavy carbon on your bolt carrier group, a traditional carbon solvent may be more effective.

🔥 Pro Tip: Use CLP for weekly wipe-downs and range maintenance. Use solvent + oil for deep cleans or after suppressor-heavy sessions.

Does CLP Prevent Rust as Well as Oil?

Absolutely. A good CLP leaves behind a thin anti-corrosion film. Many are even salt-spray tested and meet military rust prevention standards.

Forsaken Industries CLP, for example, is tested for long-term rust inhibition, even in high-humidity and coastal climates.

✅ Bonus: CLP doesn’t evaporate as quickly as some oils, giving it an edge for long-term storage.

When Should You Use CLP vs. Solvent?

Use CLP when:

  • You're cleaning in the field or at the range
  • You want to save space in your range bag
  • You’re maintaining a carry gun or truck gun
  • You clean regularly and don’t need a deep strip-down

Use Solvent + Oil when:

  • You're doing an annual teardown or post-match clean
  • You’ve run suppressed or shot hundreds of rounds
  • You’re maintaining precision barrels or match guns
  • You want tailored lubrication or heavy-duty copper removal

Common Questions

🔹 Can I use CLP on my pistol?

Yes, CLP is perfect for cleaning handguns like Glocks, SIGs, or 1911s. Use it on the slide rails, barrel, and trigger group.

🔹 Is CLP safe on Cerakote or anodized finishes?

Yes — quality CLP like Forsaken Industries is non-corrosive and safe on polymer, aluminum, stainless steel, and Cerakote.

🔹 Can I use both CLP and solvent?

Definitely. Many shooters use solvent for cleaning and then apply a small amount of CLP for lubrication and rust protection.

Final Verdict: Which One’s Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

  • CLP is your all-in-one field tool. Great for everyday use, fast cleaning, and space-saving setups.
  • Solvent + oil is ideal for deep-cleaning tasks and customized maintenance routines.

🎯 If you want fast, reliable gun maintenance with less hassle — CLP is the clear winner for most gun owners.

Ready to Simplify Your Gun Care?

🧴 Forsaken Industries CLP is:

  • Veteran-made
  • Built for real-world performance
  • Tested on ARs, pistols, suppressors, and everything in between

Shop now and experience why more shooters are switching to a no-BS cleaning system that actually works.