Review: StrikeHold Gun Cleaner, Lubricant, and Protectant

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posted on January 8, 2021
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When it comes to firearms gear and accessories, most gun owners (whether new or old) go no further than contemplating the most economic brand of bulk ammo for plinking, a reliable hollow-point load for last-ditch possible defensive use and perhaps a holster or other supportive equipment that will meet the role of concealed carry without breaking the bank.

Ironically, the one item that rarely receives much research or thought is something that enhances reliability: Lubrication. Gun owners typically don’t play favorites. They simply grab the first thing on the shelf. (I’ve known people who have looked no further than WD-40, brake fluid and two rookie New Mexico state troopers who whose department armorer swore that all the needed on their guns to get through a five-day tactical pistol course was 3-in-1 oil.)

Needless to say, they spent a lot of time clearing stoppages and at the fix-it table until yours truly offered them a more viscous alternative. But why saddle yourself with a run-of-the-mill lube when a multi-purpose product like StrikeHold does so much more? The advantage of such a product is it replaces the need for numerous bottles of gun oil, bore solvent degreaser and lube.

Developed 14 years ago for the U.S. military by Michael Huggard, formally of the 82nd Airborne Division, StrikeHold is a fast-acting CLP (clean, lube protect) protect that has been battle-tested on multiple weapon systems from service pistols, M110, M4, M240, and .50-caliber rifles in addition to MK 19 grenade launcher and even the M1A2 Abrams tank.

Once applied to the firearm, its molecules, which are small enough to penetrate porous metal, cut through any carbon build-up, cosmoline, corrosion, dirt or sand in all weather conditions—coat every surface of the gun via capillary action. Best of all, when done the firearm is not only clean; once StrikeHold dries it leaves a light film that serves as a dry lubricant, greatly reducing friction.

The result not only enhances the overall reliability of your firearm, it also lessens wear, both of which are quite beneficial for gun and owner. As a dry lubricant, it repels debris such as dust or lint, a potential boon for fans and practitioners of pocket carry. Moreover, it will not damage materials such as paint, plastic, rubber or wood. Repeated application will not cause any gummy build-up.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly delayed my review of this product, as the shooting and cleaning of guns typically require open ranges. One consumer testimonial on the Strikehold website states, “I asked what StrikeHold was at my local gun store. I trust all of their opinions implicitly, so what he said was, "Only the greatest thing ever! We even used it on the full autos, including the machine guns." I immediately bought a bottle and tried it on my carry gun. Just perfect. I went back today and got the giant sized spray bottle for guns and other, larger applications. Such a great product!”

It's also available in different sizes, including aerosol and liquid. MSRP for a 12-ounce aerosol can of StrikeHold with a free microfiber cloth is $11.50. Battle-tested and offering superlative service for our nation’s protectors makes StrikeHold ideal for this civilian’s shooting needs.

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