7 Best Gun Cleaning Kit [2026]: Universal & Caliber Specific Kits By: Dave Chesson

[[{“value”:”

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to follow and signup for notifications!

I’ve wasted a lot of money on different gun cleaning kits. I’ve bought compact ones, full scale ones, and even different specialized ones as well. At first, it was just because I wanted to get the right one for my collection. But then after repeated requests on which one I liked the most, I found that my answer depended on that particular person and their needs. I personally have a favorite, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that my kit is the right one for your needs.

Furthermore, I have tried buying some of the cheap knock offs on Amazon, as well as big name brands too. It’s actually shocking how crapy many of these actually are. I even had one where two parts broke after minimal use, requiring me to update this to reflect the poor quality.

So, in order to help you get the right one for your needs, and avoid wasting money like I did, here are what I think the best gun cleaning kits.

However, before we get into this, I’d like to discuss the different types of gun cleaning kits. Knowing how they work will help you understand why I ranked them the way I did.

Gun Cleaning kits can be broken down into two categories:

Complete Cleaning Kits: These gun cleaning kits usually include the basics needed for cleaning and come in their own case. These are a great place to start for new gun owners. Complete cleaning kits can either be universal cleaning kits (meant for most firearms) or they can be specific to certain firearm types like handguns or shotguns.

“Build Your Own” Cleaning Kits: Once you’re familiar with your firearms and know your preferred tools and solvents, it’s time to build your cleaning kit. Whether you started with a complete kit or not, you’ll likely want to customize it to suit your needs.

I personally like a complete kit (that is well done and well made), but one of the other writers here, Ryan Cleckner, prefers minimal kits for things like going to the range, but prefers to buy his own components. To each their own I guess.

In addition to these options, there are compact/travel cleaning kits, bore snake kits (which use a tool called the bore snake to clean the barrel), and kits designed for each gun type like handguns, rifles, and shotguns. This guide covers a mix of these different types cleaning kits so you can make a pick.

How I Chose the Best Gun Cleaning Kit

As I said above, I not only bought kits I thought were excellent in the market, but also tried some of the cheap knockoffs out there, hoping that cheaper could still be sufficient. And in some cases that was found to be true. So, in total, I bought 12 different sets in order to write this. Many of those sets I kept for myself, while the ones I didn’t like, I gave as ‘gifts’ to friends.

Now, I know what you’re thinking…good friends, haha. But still, I don’t need to keep 12 cleaning sets in my closet.

However, as I mention above, the top cleaning kit for you might be different. Do you want a one size fits all? Or would you prefer a specialized kit? To best answer this, I decided I would give a best of category for the different kits. This will include things like my personal favorite, the best value, and ones that are specific to the type of gun.

With that said, here’s what I consider the best gun cleaning kits on the market in order:

Best Gun Cleaning Kits

#1. Best Value & Editors Choice GuardTech Gun Cleaning Kit		Great value kit Comes with an organized case Comprehensive collection of gun cleaning tools	Buy on Amazon
		Great value Room for expansion Nice organized toolbox Plenty of bore brushes	Buy on Amazon
		Best for handguns Affordable Lightweight and compact Folds to hold your gun	Buy on Amazon
Best for Rifles Gloryfire AR15 Cleaning Kit		Lightweight Inexpensive A must-have for AR15s	Buy on Amazon
		Comes with 4 stainless rods Lightweight and portable Durable Beginner-friendly Adjustable rod	Buy on Amazon
Best on the Range Hoppe’s 34011 Boresnake Soft Sided Field Kit		Lightweight and portable Lube and oil included Super compact	Buy on Amazon
		Room for expansion Universal cleaning kit Supports gun while cleaning Lube and grease included	Buy on Amazon
Honorable Mention Gloryfire Universal Cleaning Kit		Affordable Low profile and labeled case 14 bore brushes, jags, and loops are solid brass	Buy on Amazon

Below are the specifications for all the different gun cleaning supplies within the different kits:

Type	Room for Expansion	Price Range	Mobile Bottom Line
GuardTech Universal Kit		~$50
Gloryfire Universal Cleaning Kit		~$50
Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Kit		Less than $20
Gloryfire AR-15 Cleaning Kit		Less than $20
SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Cleaning Kit		Less than $50
Otis All Caliber Elite Range Box		$175+
Allen Company Ultimate Universal Cleaning Kit		More than $100
Hoppe’s 34011 Boresnake Soft Sided Field Kit		Less than $50

You can see my list above, however, let’s break some of those down and allow me to explain why I ranked them the way I did and specifically why you should consider any of them.

GuardTech Universal Cleaning Kit

This set is a comprehensive collection of gun cleaning tools. It includes jags, slotted tips, adapters, utility brushes, patches, and more – even a bore rope cleaner and cleaning picks that aren’t widely available in cleaning kits.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A-
• Function
  A
• Quality
  A+
• Value
  A+

Our Grade

A

Reader’s Grade

A

Based on

10 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

GuardTech Specs

• Case
  Plastic Carrying Case
• Weight
  .17, .20, .22, .243, .270, .30, .357, .40, 410, .45, .50, .54, 20Ga, 12Ga Brushes, Utility Brushes
• Bore Snakes
  .357, .38, 9mm Rope Snake Cleaner
• Oil and Lube
  No
• Patches
  Yes

GuardTech Universal Kit Review

Okay, I know what you’re thinking….”Did he seriously just choose one of the cheapest full set options that you can find on Amazon?” And my answer is YUP.

Look, I get it. This does come across as a cheap Chinese knock off. However, even though it is cheaper than most, it actually isn’t a knock off. While you can find others on Amazon that look just like this, (like the GloryFire which I mention later in my honorable mention section), this was by far the best constructed and one of the lowest priced full sets.

I’ve used this one for YEARS now, and I’ve never had any components break. Furthermore, I’ve come to prefer the briefcase style case over the full bucket style that you see on the Allen Universal kit, or the Otis all Caliber, because sadly, my wife doesn’t give me LOADs of room for my gun supplies so having something smaller and more accessible is much better for me.

Generally, this kit has everything you need. The only downside is it lacks lube or oil, but it includes a needle oiler bottle for customization. If you want more on cleaning oils, I’ve got a blog covering the best gun oils. 

I also noticed an issue with the handle design. It’s not ideal for carrying as everything falls out when turned sideways. The bore snake isn’t the best either; it’s just a rope with brass ends. Another thing I have run into is that some parts tend to fall out of their spot when I am carrying the case around…but it’s not that big of a problem.

So, honestly, I just think this is the best value for a full kit and I’ve had no problem over the years with it. It’s just solid. If you want to learn more, you can check out my full review of GuardTech Universal Cleaning Kit here.

GuardTech Pros and Cons

• Great value kit
• Comes with an organized case
• Comprehensive collection of gun cleaning tools

• No lube or oil
• Items fall out of place when you carry it by the handle

Allen Company Ultimate Universal Cleaning Kit

Great value for 65 different weapon cleaning tools for all calibers. Comes in a handy easy-to-organize toolbox.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A-
• Function
  A
• Quality
  B-
• Value
  A+

Our Grade

A-

Reader’s Grade

A-

Based on

2 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

Allen Company Ultimate Kit Review

For the number two spot, I decided to go with a more premium option. That being said, I made this number two because I think the Guardtech is enough for 95% of you out there and half the price. But for those that want to take a step up and pay double, the Allen Universal Kit is my second choice.

Some people might be shocked that I didn’t choose the Otis Kit All Caliber Elite Range Box (in my honorable mention section). However, it used to be…but then I had to update this review because the price of the Otis jumped and is now over $200. And sure, the Otis is AMAZING with everything you could want. But $200? Seriously…nah…no thank you. When it was $100 it was a steal. But not anymore.

So, with the Otis out of the way, let’s talk about the Allen kit. It’s essentially a larger box with better organization, but it’s reasonably priced. This kit has all the basics to get you started just with better quality.

However, not everything is great with this kit. The rods are only 30 inches long, limiting their reach in longer barrels, and the threading isn’t standard, so it’s not compatible with other rods. Additionally, I did bend a rod – but that might have been an error on my part…or lack of patience. Still something to consider since I haven’t bent one with the GuarTech.

Also, it doesn’t come with bore snakes or cleaning solvents, so you’ll need to buy those separately. Despite these drawbacks, if you want a kit with ample storage that can grow with your collection, the Allen Company Kit is worth considering.

You can check out my full breakout on my review here.

Allen Company Ultimate Universal Cleaning kit Pros and Cons

Real Avid GUN BOSS Handgun Cleaning Kit

An affordable handgun cleaning kit that’s easy to grab and go.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  B
• Function
  A+
• Quality
  A
• Value
  A+

Our Grade

A

Reader’s Grade

B+

Based on

3 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Set Review

With all of my recommendations so far being larger kits with room to expand, you might be surprised to find the Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Set on my list. But there’s a reason I like it for handguns…it’s compact and easy to carry around.

This kit is tailored for handgun barrel sizes, covering everything from .22 to .45 calibers with its 14 pieces, including rods, brass brushes, jags, and threaded brass receivers. It’s perfect for those who only need to clean one or two handguns and want something portable to toss in their range bag.

While the tools aren’t top-tier quality and there are some plastic parts, they get the job done for a quick clean. Keep in mind it doesn’t come with gun oil or solvent, and there’s no room to add any.

I like to consider this as a basic travel cleaning kit, even if I have a full-sized one at home. It’s simple, well-organized, and durable, with a rugged zip case made of a weather-resistant ballistic nylon shell. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, this kit is a reliable companion in the field. 

If you’re still unsure about its components or effectiveness, read my full review on the Real Avid Handgun Cleaning Kit.

Real Avid Gun Boss Handgun Cleaning Kit Pros and Cons

GLORYFIRE AR15 Cleaning Kit

A compact, lightweight carry option for cleaning your AR15 or rifle in the field.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A-
• Function
  A
• Quality
  B
• Value
  A-

Our Grade

A-

Reader’s Grade

B

Based on

2 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

Gloryfire AR15 Cleaning Kit Review

Generally, I don’t recommend buying a AR15 specific kit. That’s because I’ve bought a couple of rifles that come with something that works. Furthermore every full kit above comes with the aprts to clean a rifle. So, why buy one specifically for this?

I guess because some of you want to probably save 10ish dollars and only have a AR15? So, with that, if you’re looking for an AR15 centric cleaning kit, then this would be the better one on the market.

It includes the essentials like cleaning rods, brushes, patches, and even elongated Q-tips for deep cleaning. I particularly appreciate the chamber brush for cleaning the star chamber effectively.

It’s also compact and lightweight..which is nice, and the pouch is easy to carry whether in my bag or on my belt. It’s always there when I need it, especially in the field. Although, I’ll try to hold judgement if I see someone on the range with a cleaning kit attached to their belt…haha.

And like many of the options above, it does not come with a jag or a gun solvent/oil. But other than that, I have no complaints and I think it’s a good deal for a few bucks.

You can check out my full review on the Gloryfire AR15 Cleaning Kit here.

Gloryfire AR15 Cleaning Kit Pros and Cons

SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Cleaning Kit

Super portable kit that makes cleaning your shotgun at the range or in the field easy

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A
• Function
  A+
• Quality
  A-
• Value
  A

Our Grade

A

Reader’s Grade

A+

Based on

1 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Kit Review

Okay, I know I ragged a bit on buying a AR15 specific kit. However, I do recommend a shotgun specific kit…if you have shotguns (plural).

Many of the kits don’t come with shotgun specific cleaning parts and using the SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Kit has made cleaning my shotguns and pellet guns a lot simpler. While it’s not exactly easy to toss into a range bag, it’s been my reliable choice for keeping my shotgun clean, especially when I’m out in rough conditions.

This kit has everything I need for shotgun cleaning and is easy enough for beginners to handle. I’m impressed by the durability of the cleaning rods and barrel mop, and the adjustable rod length makes things even easier.

Although it’s marketed as a 12 GA shotgun kit, I’ve found it works well with other firearms too. Despite a few minor drawbacks like the plastic jag and the case quality, it’s still a great value for the price.

And again, like everything above, it also doesn’t come with any gun solvent or oils, but there’s an empty bottle for you to fill in any oil you like. The rest is totally fine though.

So, out of the different shotgun cleaning kits I’ve used, this one is my favorite and worth the price. If you still have questions, you can check out my full review on the SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Kit here.

SPIKA Compact 12 GA Shotgun Kit Pros and Cons

Hoppe’s BoreSnake Soft-Sided Rifle Cleaning Kit

Portable Boresnake Cleaning Kit with everything you need.

Check Latest Price

Hoppe’s 34011 Boresnake Soft Sided Field Kit Specs

• Case
  Rugged and Soft Sided Case
• Brushes Included
  No
• Bore Snakes
  .22/.30 Caliber Bore Snake
• Oil and Lube
  Yes
• Patches
  Yes

As someone always on the move, I’ve found Hoppe’s 34011 Boresnake Soft Sided Field Kit to be the best cleaning kit on the field. It’s compact and easy to carry, making it perfect for impromptu cleaning sessions whether at the range or out in the wild. Granted, some would say that my comments on the Real Avid Gun Boss could be a range cleaning kit as well. But this is the most minimalist you can get.

What I love most is its simplicity. With everything at my fingertips, from the bore snake to the cleaning solvent and lubricating oil, it guarantees a quick and effective clean.

The customized bore snakes for .22 or .30 firearms are a game-changer. They make the cleaning process easy, and with the brass weight and T-handle, pulling through is smooth and hassle-free.

Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner does wonders in removing carbon, powder, and lead fouling, making sure my firearm stays in top condition. After the clean-up, applying Hoppe’s traditional lubricating oil keeps everything running smoothly.

Sure, it’s not perfect. I do wish it came with a brush for deeper internal cleaning. But overall, it’s become my go-to for basic maintenance wherever I find myself. It’s reliable, efficient, and keeps my gun in great shape, even when the going gets tough.

Hoppe’s 34011 Boresnake Soft Sided Field Kit Pros and Cons

• Lightweight and portable
• Lube and oil included
• Super compact

• No brushes included

These are gun cleaning kits that used to be ranked, but either were moved off my list because their prices went up and made them a poor ROI, or in one case, parts broke after a couple of years…so why list it when there are options that last longer?

Otis All Caliber Elite Range Box W/ Universal Cleaning Kit

Provides a quality range box to carry all cleaning supplies. The range box is also specially designed to support the gun while cleaning.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A+
• Function
  A+
• Quality
  A+
• Value
  A-

Our Grade

A+

Reader’s Grade

B

Based on

3 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

Otis All Caliber Elite Range Box Review 

I used to love this one…when it was $100. Yeah, still a bit pricey for a gun cleaning kit but wow…does it come with everything at the highest quality.

And then, the price doubled to over $200. Is it the best kit…yes. However is it worth $200? No, I personally don’t think so. If I see the price decrease back to around $100, I’ll quickly come back and edit this to make it my favorite.

For a detailed look at its 60+ components, check out my full review of the Otis All Caliber Elite Range Box Review.

Otis All Caliber Elite Range Box Pros and Cons

GLORYFIRE Universal Cleaning Kit

This all-around cleaning kit comes in a nice hard clamshell-style case that’s easy to organize and store.

Check Latest Price

• Components
  A-
• Function
  A-
• Quality
  B+
• Value
  A

Our Grade

A-

Reader’s Grade

B+

Based on

6 Reviews

Your Grade

Do You Own This Accessory?
Leave A Review

Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score

Gloryfire Universal Cleaning Set Review

This one feels like a rip off of the Guardtech…I mean look at them. They look identical, right?

But here’s the thing…first, having both at your finger tips, its easy to see that Guardtech is the better option. Second, having used both, I had two parts break in my Gloryfire setup, while my Guardtech continues to have no problem.

They are both priced the same, but clearly if this general setup works for you, then get the better option for the same price. Don’t waste your money on this, or any other knockoff out there. I ended up giving this set to a friend who was new to guns. And before any of your attack me for back friendship, that friend didn’t need those two pieces that broke.

If you’d like to learn more about the Gloryfire then check out my full review here.

Gloryfire Universal Cleaning Kit Pros and Cons

Okay, so not everyone wants a full set kit. And some want a kit, but also want to improve certain parts or add something that wasn’t in their kit. With that said, here are some components you should consider if building your own or adding to your existing gun cleaning kit:

Cleaning Kit Components:

Cleaning Rods are a tool for cleaning the barrel of your firearm. It can be used to scrub the barrel with a brush or apply solvent.

Jags are attached to the end of a cleaning rod and carry cleaning patches through the barrel.

Cleaning patches are used for cleaning the barrel and other small parts of a firearm.

Bore brushes are attached to cleaning rods to scrub the inside of a barrel. They come in popular styles made from brass or nylon. Some worry that brass brushes may damage barrels, but I disagree. The heat and pressure from a bullet exert more stress on a barrel than brass bristles. My simple theory is that good bore brushes are inexpensive, but the cheap ones are junk.

Bore snake/Ripcord are handy tools for a quick scrub and wipe clean of a barrel. While they don’t substitute for a thorough cleaning, I rely on them almost exclusively for my pistols.

Gun solvent or Gun Cleaner is a chemical that helps clean residue from fired ammo and it can help to remove copper buildup in the barrel.

Gun oil can clean your gun, prevent rust, and keep it lubricated for smooth operation. If you’d like to see our full breakdown of gun oils, check out our Best Gun Oil Guide.

General-purpose brushes should be included in a proper gun cleaning kit. Having even one general-purpose brush does the job.

Container to hold all the components of your kit.

Gun cleaning extras are optional, but they’re nice to have.

• Chamber brushes are specifically to clean the chamber of a firearm.
• Cleaning mats give you a clean and padded surface to work on while disassembling and cleaning your firearm. Mine has markings to help keep track of parts so I don’t lose any.
• Benchrests and vises help stabilize the firearm in multiple situations. A benchrest gives a stable shooting platform for bore sighting, and vises hold the firearm for detailed cleaning.
• Bore guides help align cleaning rods with the bore to prevent rod or brush damage while cleaning.
• Gunsmithing screwdriver sets include a variety of tools designed to fit firearm screws precisely, so you don’t damage screws or gun finishes while disassembling or reassembling.
• Silicone gun cloths are for wiping down firearms after cleaning and these provide rust protection.
• LED bore lights are small, powerful lights that can be inserted into the bore to inspect for fouling, debris, or bore obstructions.

Now that we’ve discussed the kit components, let’s focus on how to clean your firearm using a gun kit.

When cleaning your gun, it’s important to reach every corner for a thorough clean. Here are some step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process.

• Step 1: Kit compatibility

Before you begin, make sure your cleaning kit is designed for the correct caliber of your gun. Check for bore cleaning tools, including bore brushes, nylon brushes, bore mops, slotted tips, rods, and cleaning patches. Using the wrong caliber tools can make cleaning a hassle and potentially damage your firearm.

• Step 2: Unload and disassemble

Always make sure your gun is unloaded before cleaning. Take it apart completely and remove the barrel. Cleaning each part separately is easier and ensures you don’t miss any spots.

• Step 3: Barrel cleaning

Begin with the barrel by attaching a cleaning patch soaked in a bore cleaning solution to your rod. Insert the rod into the barrel chamber end and push it through in the same direction as the bullet travels. Repeat a few times to remove dirt, fouling, and residue.

• Step 4: Bore brush for deep cleaning

For a deeper clean, use a bore brush attached to your cleaning rod. Scrub the barrel with it to remove tough deposits, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies inside for a thorough cleaning.

• Step 5: Exterior barrel cleaning

As for the outside, use a nylon brush and cleaning solution to scrub off dirt and fouling. This keeps your firearm clean and looking good.

• Step 6: Reassemble and repeat

You can reassemble your gun after the barrel cleaning. Repeat the same steps for other components like the slide, frame, and magazine.

• Step 7: Lubrication

Apply a thin layer of your preferred lubricant to the moving parts of your firearm. Make sure not to over-lubricate because excess oil can attract dust and debris.

• Step 8: Final wipe down

After cleaning and lubricating, wipe down your firearm with an oil-free cloth. I go for an absorbent, lint-free, and tightly woven cloth like an old cotton t-shirt.

Regularly cleaning your firearm is important for maintaining its condition, but how often should you do it? It depends on factors like the type of gun and your shooting conditions. I typically clean mine every 400-500 rounds, but you can also follow the manufacturer’s recommendations or clean it more frequently if you use it in rough conditions.

Remember, cleaning your guns too often can damage the bore and use up solvents and oils, but not cleaning them at all can affect accuracy and reliability.

The NSSF is recommending that any shooting classes look into offering cleaning classes as well. However, to this day, most shooting classes don’t cover this topic. Therefore, another source to help would be video.

As shown in the video, this is an overview of gun cleaning. For detailed instructions, we recommend searching YouTube for specific guides. For example, if you own a Ruger Security 9, search “how to clean a Ruger Security 9” and select the following video.

Regularly cleaning your gun is important to keep it functioning smoothly, which is why it’s a good idea for all gun owners to maintain a cleaning kit. You can either put together your kit or go for a pre-made one, whichever suits you best. Just make sure it has all the tools you need and fits your firearms. Also, don’t forget to check what’s included before you buy. whichever one you start with, you’re bound to customize it with your supplies to suit your needs. Happy cleaning!

“}]]