A gun cleaning kit is a necessity for shooters if you want your gun to last any period of time. In fact, every shooter who owns a gun needs to have the most innovative gun cleaning kit to keep their weapons clean and in proper working condition.
If I had to pick just one of the great gun cleaning kits from the below list, it would be the GLORYFIRE Gun Cleaning Kit. It covers almost all firearms including handguns, rifles, and shotguns plus it has the brushes, ropes, mops, patches, and jags for just about every caliber.
With a wide variety of guns, pistols, and rifles along with varied kits for cleaning each of them; it often becomes challenging to find a kit that suits your requirements. Advanced UNIVERSAL gun cleaning kits seem to be a perfect option for all gun owners, including clay shooters, pistol target shooters, and rifle shooters (universal means a kit that will clean multiple guns that can be an “all-in-one” option).
And if you own more than one firearm, buying different kits for different guns becomes nearly impossible.
Why is a Gun Cleaning Kit Important?
Clearly, you can clean your gun with an old t-shirt, some sort of rod that will fit down the barrel and some oil. That’s how I used to clean my guns growing up. But we’ve come a long way in our understanding of how to clean a gun and keep it performing properly.
We now have quality cleaning brushes, bore snakes, patches, rods, jags, mops and other tools that will help clean your firearm. But getting one of each of these tools, for your specific caliber, can be a huge undertaking. This is where a kit comes in.
Cleaning your gun and preparing it for the next time you use it is very important. Storing a dirty gun is one of the worst things you can do to it. If you take proper care of your guns you will be rewarded with the best performance and accuracy each time you hit the range.
Keeping your gun or firearms dirty for long can actually make more damage to its inner parts making it useless when you want to use it – or when you really need it.
Investing your time to maintain and clean your guns is therefore important. This can be made simple and enjoyable by using the right type of cleaning kit for your firearms.
Just remember this: A clean gun is a happy gun!
Universal Gun Cleaning Kits: What Do They Include?
Regardless of the gun bore and brand, a gun cleaning kit cleans all parts of a weapon in a much effective manner making your job easier. An advanced cleaning kit includes more than 40 cleaning elements that can be used with all shotguns, rifles, and pistols.
Almost every one of the 10 kits listed below comes equipped with sophisticated tools, of either bronze or plastic, which clean the barrel, chamber and all the other nooks & crannies. These kits are essential items at a shooter’s workbench, in their safe or in their range bag.
Major components in a universal gun cleaning kit include:
- Bronze/Nylon Brushes
- Double-end Brushes
- Cleaning Swabs
- Cotton Swabs
- Cleaning Jags
- Cleaning Patches
- Cleaning Rods
- Cleaning Solvent
- Bore Snakes
Some kits have elaborated gun maintenance DVD guide that helps users to clean the gun in the best possible manner.
One major feature of gun cleaning kits is that they come with everything you need for a perfect cleaning (sans the oil/lube in most cases). They mostly come in a beautiful nylon case with a lock and key for improved security.
One thing you’ll notice with several of the kits we list below is that they are very similar. Such is the cutthroat world of Amazon suppliers – someone comes out with a good idea, it starts to sell and soon everyone jumps onto the idea with the same identical product (in many cases, made in the same facility.
We’ve tried to filter out the kits that ranked well but were the same as all the others. We’ve found many kits which do the job, have everything you need and ship fast – all for the best price. Take a look at what we found:
10 Best Universal Gun Cleaning Kits
You can buy the best gun cleaning kits online (primarily Amazon) where these are available at great prices. Do not forget to compare some of the best brands and options available before choosing the one that is best suitable for you.
To make it easy for you, we have listed the 10 best gun cleaning kits on the market. You can check out the features and content of these top gun cleaning kits to decide on the best option for your needs.
1- GLORYFIRE Gun Cleaning Kit – Best Universal Gun Cleaning Kit
What is the most important thing you look for when buying a gun cleaning kit? The quality of the tools? Its ability to provide an effective, but easy, clean? It’s portability?
This GLORYFIRE Gun Cleaning Kit has it all – and then some
This kit boasts all the tools you’ll need for universal gun cleaning. Great for gun lovers anywhere, this kit truly offers the superior value that will make you happy.
Included in this kit are:
- Flex Rod Cables
- Machine-washable Pads
- Mop set
- 2 Large Cleaning Brushes
- Brush Revolver Adapter
- Gun Cloth
GloryFire spends a lot of time listening to their customers. Like many of the sellers on Amazon, they make similar products as everyone else. But it seems they’ve adopted more of a “Fast Follower” model that incorporates what’s selling well, PLUS listening to what extras may be desired by other gun owners.
The kit comes in an impressive storage bag that makes organizing and carrying your kit easier than you ever thought possible.
If you’ve got several firearms of differing calibers, this kit should be at the top of your list. No matter what you have, you’ll be able to get a superior clean every time with this incredible universal kit.
This kit is very similar to our #9 item on this list, the Otis Technology Universal Gun Cleaning Kit, but it’s cheaper. That’s why it comes in as our #1 pick. Check the price on Amazon.
2- GloryFire Universal Gun Cleaning Kit Review
Here’s another pick from GloryFire – it seems they’re doing things right if our top two slots belong to this brand. If you’re looking for a no-hassle gun-cleaning kit, the GloryFire Universal kit is for you.
Equipped with everything you need, the GloryFire kit comes with high-quality brass and nylon tools that for a superior clean. This means that you’ll never have to worry about your tools breaking off inside your gun!
This kit could be considered the “little brother” of our number #1 reviewed cleaning kit. It has almost the same stuff but lacks the bore snakes, ropes, patches and few of the other things that make the big brother our top pick.
But don’t let that fool you – this kit has everything you need to get the job done for around half the price (at the time of this writing). Save yourself both time and hassle by stopping worrying about broken or flimsy tools.
As we mentioned above, this kit is similar to MANY of the other multi-gun cleaning kits for sale – they’re almost identical to each other – the only difference is the price in most cases. If you want the same cleaning kit for a little cheaper, you can check out this one here.
With the GloryFire gun cleaning kit, you can be confident that your tools will survive even the toughest of cleanings—giving you the leverage you need to clean as you want.
With GloryFire, you can be sure that your guns stay in tip-top shape no matter their caliber.
The GloryFire Universal Gun Cleaning Kit comes with a variety of tools you need for deep gun cleaning:
- 12 spear-pointed jags
- 3 utility brushes
- 3 muzzle guards
- 50 cleaning patches
- 14 brushes
- 9 mops
It also includes four polishing clothes and one black power jag for even better cleaning.
Though the kit does come in an impressive durable case, its size means that it’s not exactly portable as a range cleaning kit (see our #4 or #10 items if you’re interested in a range kit). Despite this, its incredible functionality and ability to provide a deep and easy clean to your gun make it unbeatable for the price. Check price on Amazon.
3- Allen Universal Gun Cleaning Kit Review
Allen Company Universal Gun Cleaning Kit is an ideal 65 pieces kit that can help keep your handguns, rifles, and shotguns perfectly clean.
This professional-grade handgun cleaning kit comes in a toolbox for easy storage and includes all the components to clean 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore shotguns – as well as all the handgun and rifle calibers you might need.
Ideally designed for the traditional shooter, this gun cleaning kit with a toolbox has ample space for storing the cleaning chemicals, extra patches, cleaning cloths, and extra jags or brushes.
Above all, this universal gun cleaning kit includes all the needed essentials such as cotton swabs, patches, bronze brushes, brass jags, brass slotted tips, brass adapters, cleaning rods, and muzzle guards.
Because of the size, we think this kit is best left in the workshop or in the back of your truck. It’s not really an item you can lug around with you on a hunt or a quick day at the range. Check price on Amazon.
4- Real Avid Gun Boss Universal Cleaning Kit Review
A good universal cleaning kit is one that allows you to do more than provide routine gun cleans and maintenance—though it should do that, too.
It’s also one that helps you organize and protect your tools so that they aren’t damaged.
The Real Avid Gun Boss Universal Cleaning Kit does both.
With this incredible kit, you’ll be able to clean your gun, no matter the caliber. It also includes a unique storage kit that allows you to keep your tools safe and organized even while you travel.
And by organized, I mean this kit even comes with labels that can help you keep track of all your tools. Its convenient labeling makes it perfect for beginners who need a better understanding of all the tools provided.
Cut through the confusion with one of the best kits around.
Priced right, it provides top-quality nylon and metal tools that make your gun cleaning easier and more efficient. It’s a great grab-and-go gun cleaning kit that won’t break the bank. We dub it as one of our top budget picks. If you’re in need of a reliable set that will work for all your different guns, this is a must-have purchase.
Don’t waste time with other kits that are more confusing and less durable. Get it right the first time with the Real Avid Gun Cleaning Kit. Check price on Amazon.
5- Hoppes No. 9 Deluxe Gun Cleaning Kit
This is another great product from a trusted name in gun cleaning accessories. The Hoppes Deluxe Gun Cleaning Kit offers the quality tools you need to clean your guns, no matter their caliber.
Like other products in the Hoppes brand, the tools provided offer great durability, meaning you can actually trust them to clean your gun the right way.
This incredible kit makes your gun cleaning experience easier than you ever thought possible.
Included with this kit are:
- Silicone Cleaning Cloth
- Slotted Ends
- 3-Piece Brass Rod
- 5 brushes
- Solvent
Great for beginners, this affordable wood box gun cleaning kit even comes with a guide on how to clean and maintain your gun.
Of note, however, users need to be careful to secure the lid on the solvent provided, as it may shake and jar loose inside the case.
The case itself is made of wood, offering superior protection for your tools.
Great for those on a budget, this great kit won’t break your wallet. What it will do is allow anyone, of any skill level, to clean their guns of all different types of calibers.
If you’re on the fence about which gun kit to buy, especially if you’re a beginner, this is a good choice. That’s assuming you only have a small inventory of guns. If you have a larger collection, we’d recommend the GloryFire set (either one). Check price on Amazon.
6- Gunmaster Universal Gun Cleaning Kit Review
The Gunmaster Universal Gun Cleaning Kit offers one of the cheapest quality options around. I almost hate to admit that this kit was the first cleaning kit I purchased to care for my collection. I still have it today – but I’ve had to supplement with more tools over the years as I’ve added more guns.
It works – well enough. Which is why it was added to the list.
This thirty-five piece wooden gun cleaning kit offers everything you need to keep your gun like new.
With everything from rods and brushes to mops and jags, the Gunmaster Universal Gun Cleaning Kit is great for beginners and experts alike who are looking to keep their guns clean.
One of the most obvious highlights about the Gunmaster Universal Gun Cleaning Kit is its attractive wooden box. This portable lightweight option is the perfect choice to take on your travels to keep your guns clean on the go.
But the Gunmaster Universal Gun Cleaning Kit is more than just an attractive case.
These top-quality pieces are rust-resistant and provide full cleaning functionality for those in need.
At a very low cost, this tactical performance universal gun cleaning kit is one of the cheapest on the market, offering a cost-effective solution to your gun-cleaning needs. Check price on Amazon.
7- Otis Elite Universal All-in-One Gun Cleaning Kit Review
Looking for a way to keep your rifles, pistols, and shotguns in tip-top shape?
The Otis Universal Gun Cleaning Kit provides powerful functionality in safely and effectively cleaning your guns. This kit has almost everything you could ever imagine needed for gun maintenance & cleaning.
Designed specifically for .17 to .50 caliber rifles, pistols, muzzleloaders and .410 to 12/10 gauge shotguns, the Otis Universal Gun Cleaning it offers powerful cleaning for a variety of different guns. I almost feel like it was overkill to specify what this kit was made for – it would be just as accurate to say “this kit was made to clean all the guns!”
This comprehensive kit includes a wide variety of tools, including sixteen bronze brushes that offer deep and powerful cleans.
Additionally, the kit comes with Memory-Flex cables for muzzle cleaning; a locking lug scraper and a regular scraper; a male and a female rod; several cotton patches; lens cleaning materials; and a portable case.
Best of all, the different rods and brushes found in the Otis Universal Gun Cleaning Kit are solid, meaning that you don’t have to worry about them breaking off during cleaning. Just be careful not to scratch your gun in the process.
With everything from knockers to patches, this kit provides everything you need to give your gun the deep clean it needs.
At a very affordable price, this great kit is a cost-effective option for those looking to keep their guns in good condition, even as they get older. Check price on Amazon.
8- IUNIO Universal Gun Cleaning Kit
Here’s another example of the copycat problem you find with Amazon. I don’t say that to knock this IUNIO kit because they’ve at least take some effort to stand out from the other copies – they include a gun mat with their kit. If you don’t already have one, it actually works out to be cheaper to buy this setup instead of separately.
If you’re in need of something to clean your large gun collection, look no further. The IUNIO Universal Gun Cleaning Kit provides best-in-class deep cleaning to those in need.
Great for shotguns, handguns, and rifles, IUNIO provides all the tools needed to make sure that your gun is in top-performing condition.
IUNIO is great for those who are just starting out. In addition to several great-quality tools, IUNIO provides a free manual that teaches beginners how to best use their products.
That being said, complete with 9 mops, 12 spear-pointed gun jags, 3 utility brushes, 14 bronze brushes, 3 accessory adapters, 100 cleaning patches, and 3 muzzle guards, this comprehensive kit provides even pros everything they need in order to get the job done.
Great for hunters, firemen, or anyone else who frequently shoots their guns, IUNIO is a high-performance kit.
As an added bonus, customers are treated to a hard plastic case that helps keep tools protected and organized. With this high-quality case, you never have to worry about your tools shifting or breaking during travel—no matter what may happen.
Best of all, IUNIO offers a set of high-performance tools that are built to last. These solid tools provide top-quality gun cleaning to keep your gun working like new. Check price on Amazon.
9- Otis Technology Gun Cleaning Kit
We’re going to just come right out and say it: our number one pick for best cleaning kits for all guns – the GLORYFIRE Elite – is a clone of this kit. This Otis cleaning kit has has been on Amazon since late 2006 has over 1200 5-star reviews and is MADE IN THE USA.
The GloryFire kit was listed in late 2020.
Granted, that kit does come with a few improvements over this Otis cleaning bag, but they aren’t that impressive to really note. The Otis kit would be our number 1 if it wasn’t for the price. That’s really the primary driver
The Otis Universal Gun Cleaning Kit provides powerful functionality in safely and effectively cleaning your guns.
Designed to clean almost every firearm caliber, this kit is a star. This comprehensive kit includes a wide variety of tools, including sixteen bronze brushes that offer deep and powerful cleans.
Best of all, the different rods and brushes found in the Otis Universal Gun Cleaning Kit are solid, meaning that you don’t have to worry about them breaking off during cleaning. Just be careful not to scratch your gun in the process.
With everything from knockers to patches, this kit provides everything you need to give your gun the deep clean it needs. Plus, it’s made in the USA – let’s say that again… Made in America. On that alone, it was worth adding to the list and makes it a tempting addition to our armory – even if it’s currently more expensive.
But even being “more expensive, it’s still a very affordable price. This great kit is a cost-effective option for those looking to keep their guns in good condition, even as they get older. Check price on Amazon.
10- Hoppe’s Gun Cleaning Range Kit with Mat
For those looking for an affordable, portable, quality option for a universal gun-cleaning kit, look no further. Plus it’s backed by the industry-leading Hoppes brand.
This universal Gun Cleaning Kit and range bag comes with over 20 pieces, providing you with all the tools you’ll need to get a deep, superior clean no matter the gun you have!
Importantly, the tools provided in this kit all have long-lasting durability without being of such solid metal that you risk damaging your gun.
Additionally, all pieces come carefully secured in this range bag that helps protect your tools. This makes your entire tool kit portable, and then some, making it perfect to take on your range or hunting trips!
Included with this kit are all the rods and brushes you’ll need to clean your gun collection, as well as universal components that provide great flexibility as you work!
Because of its incredible value and utility, this case should rank at the top of the list for anyone looking to purchase an affordable universal gun-cleaning kit and range bag combo. With all the tools you need, this kit won’t leave you disappointed. Check price on Amazon.
Picking The Best Gun Cleaning Kit for ALL Guns
Buying a good gun cleaning kit is not an easy task in itself as there are many varieties available.
And for this reason, there are many things that should be understood before you buy the right kind of gun cleaning kit.
Here we list some of the important things you need to check before making the final decision to buy:
✅ Type of gun you want to clean:
First of all, it is important that you know about the kind of gun you want to clean.
For instance, a gun cleaning kit for cleaning your long arms (like rifles and shotguns) is much different than a kit required for cleaning handguns.
Kits for cleaning the long guns like rifles often comes with additional accessories such as snakes (long rope-like strips of cloth).
These are required for clearing up the barrel where a good amount of unwanted debris has been deposited. Accessories like these are of no use if you want to clean your pistol or handgun.
✅ Size of the kit:
The physical size of the kit you are considering to buy is also one of the most important factors to check.
Especially if you love hunting you need to service your gun oftentimes in the field and for your convenience, you will need to get a compact gun cleaning kit that is easy to pack and carry (in your hike bag) while you are transporting.
But as assembling down a most comprehensive compact kit may take much time in the field you can consider purchasing a small kit that is less comprehensive for the use in the field.
As a serious hunter or shooter, you can invest additionally in a more comprehensive kit for engaging yourself in a cleaning task when you are back home after the enjoyment.
✅ Check the contents:
The cleaning kit for a gun is not something you need to buy again and again. It is therefore essential that you check about it carefully before making a final decision.
The best gun cleaning kit you are considering should come with a label that indicates all the contents it includes.
It will help you know about what you are paying for and what you are getting. Reading the description, reviews and customer feedback also helps you know much about the quality and performance of the kit you are choosing.
If required you should go and ask the questions from the people who are knowledgeable in the area or had bought the same kit previously.
✅ Price of the cleaning kit:
Besides all the above tips it is important to check that you do not end up buying a most expensive kit when you do not actually require it.
Gun cleaning kit for sale comes in a range of $25 to $150 and investing in the costliest kit does not necessarily mean that you are going to get the best kit for cleaning your gun. Instead, check about your requirements and budget before you make the final decision.
A cheaper kit can do similar jobs for you and it is not at all advisable to invest in a very expensive gun cleaning kit.
✅ Warranty and return policy:
The warranty policy of the kit and its duration is important to check before you buy one online.
Also, make sure about the returning condition just in case you do not like the kit or if it gets broken.
Do You Need A Gun Cleaning Box with Your Kit?
Those who fish are really on to something when they carry a tackle box and it helps with your gun cleaning as well.
A good, cheap will carry most of the basics. It’s portable and compartmentalized to carry all types of brushes, mops, and other gear. Plus, it has a larger storage area on the bottom for your rags, oils, and other cleaning materials.
Add to that the fact that cleaning boxes are also relatively inexpensive and are available in different sizes and you have a box that can be perfect for your needs.
At the very least, you can have a portable gun cleaning kit inside a tackle box that you can take with you wherever it is needed.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gun Cleaning Box
If you have chosen to purchase a gun cleaning box, then you probably have a complaint about either the quality of the box itself or the quality of the brushes that are included.
This is because those who sell gun cleaning boxes either skimp on the box or the brushes to keep the price down.
The result is consumers who are not all that happy about what they receive with the gun, so they spend a considerable amount trying to upgrade it.
The complaints aimed at the box itself is usually one of three things;
- Box is too fragile
- Box is too small
- Box is too large
It seems that on the surface, you are going to find something to be unhappy about with most kit boxes. What follows are a few tips that will help you choose the right one for your needs.
1- Size: Choose a box that is large enough to carry all the important components of a gun cleaning kit. This means having a box that includes the following;
- Individual compartments to organize brushes
- A large compartment for rags, oils, solvents, and other chemicals
- Long enough for rods and other components to carry safely
Finding one box that meets all your needs will not be an easy search, but there are several companies that do make such gun cleaning kits.
2- Quality: Another important component is the quality of the box itself.
Most boxes today are made from plastic and that will generally work if the material is hard enough to resist impacts and sealed enough to keep any spills from leaking.
While you may prefer a different material such as wood or metal, they can be expensive and offer no greater advantage over a good plastic.
3- Portable: This may be the trickiest part as you’ll want to find a gun box made of plastic that is both large enough to carry everything you want while being small enough to carry what you need.
In this case, you may need two cases. The big one that you keep at home or perhaps in your vehicle that has all of your cleaning items.
And one that is portable that you can take with you for competitions, hunting, and the like.
The small, portable kit carries enough to clean your gun just enough to keep it in prime condition while the larger case is for overall cleaning.
Additional Products You May Need to Have
Now that you have found the right box, the next step is gathering all the additional materials you need to create a good gun cleaning kit.
- Separate Tray: The ability to pull out a tray and have it sitting away from the box is a nice addition.
- Roll Out Mat: This will let you layout your firearms so they can be properly cleaned. These cleaning mats are not very good for storage, but they can allow you to clean your weapons and not scratch them in the process.
- Padded Vice: A padded vice or rest is also handy to have, allowing you to clean the guns better and faster. The same is true for a pad as it lifts the gun off the surface, letting you have full access to all sides at once.
Remember that there is a gun cleaning kit box for you. All you need to do is know what you want and then set about to find it.
Can You Clean A Gun Without A Kit At Home?
There are a lot of gun cleaning kits and cleaning services available in the market. However, if you want to clean your gun without a kit, then it is an easy task.
You may probably have all the required essentials and materials at your home but getting them to use for cleaning your gun or pistol is a bit difficult.
Take all the bullets out of your gun; basically what you are doing is unloading it. Then you need to take your cloth and divide it into small equal pieces by using scissors.
The leftover cloth can be used to dab oil on it and you can now start by wiping your gun with this dabbed rag piece.
Make sure you cover all areas inside and outside well enough before you proceed to the next step. Grab your rifle or firearm by its chamber and barrel and clean out each of the corners and remove all the dirt from inside and on outside as well.
Force down the ramrod or the sharp tool (whichever you are using) with the cloth dabbed with gun oil to make sure that the insides are cleaned properly. Do it repeatedly to ensure proper cleaning.
Wipe off the oily dirt and leftover the mess with those cut pieces of cloth to make sure the inside, as well as the outside part of your firearm, is clean.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your precious firearms clean is not only good for accurate shooting but also it ensures your safety and keep you away from hazards.
Your armed ammunitions must be clean so that it doesn’t rust or have any debris stuck in them so as to facilitate its smooth functioning.
Timely cleaning of your firearms is, therefore, mandatory to keep them clean and to ensure your family’s safety.
Although you can clean your guns without a kit, we highly recommend investing is a high-quality universal gun cleaning kit that can make the task easier and efficient.
Once you know how to clean your guns and pistols using a proper kit, it becomes easy to accomplish the task without any external help which can easily save you a lot of money in the long run.