Ruger LCP Cleaning

Cleaning types

Maintaining the cleanliness of your Ruger LCP is not just important; it's essential for ensuring its longevity, reliability, and performance. Proper cleaning of your firearm and its accessories is crucial if you wish to continue enjoying its use for years to come. This is particularly true for Ruger LCP owners, as the specific design and mechanics of this gun demand regular and meticulous care. Recognizing the best cleaning kits tailored for your Ruger LCP can make a significant difference in preserving its condition and enhancing its functionality. The market boasts a variety of brands known for their high-quality gun cleaning solutions, including Hoppes, Real Avid, Otis, M-Pro 7, Ohuhu, Alien, and Gloryfire, each offering products designed to meet the unique needs of different firearms.

In this guide, we will explore the top cleaning kits ideal for Ruger LCP, highlighting why each brand stands out and how their kits can help you in effectively maintaining your firearm. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to the world of firearms, understanding the importance of regular cleaning and the right tools for the job is key. These leading brands offer comprehensive cleaning solutions that cater specifically to the intricate parts of your Ruger LCP, ensuring that every component receives the care it needs. With this article, you'll discover the best practices for cleaning your Ruger LCP and the most recommended kits to keep your gun in pristine condition, guaranteeing its readiness and reliability whenever you need it.

Top 5 Ruger LCP
cleaning Kits

1. Gloryfire Elite Gun Cleaning Kit

Gloryfire presents a truly elite gun cleaning kit. It is one of the best cleaning kits out there that covers these calibers 17 / .20 / .22 / .35 / 9mm / .40 / .45 / .22 / .243 / .270 / 5.56mm / .38 / .30 / .410 / .50 / 12GA / 16 GA / 20GA / 28GA; Brass jags: .17 / .22 / .248 / .35 / 9mm / .25 / .270 / .30 / .338 / .375 / .40 / .44 / .45 / .50; Cotton mops: .17 / .30 / .40 / .22 / .35 / 9mm / .410 / .50 / 12GA / 20GA. which is kinda all you can ask for. The rods included in this kit are made of their own developed material and design. The kit itself contains reinforced rods, high quality brushes, brass jags, cotton mops, brass brushes and a nice labeled case so you know what you are using.

The model is made to have all tools in one kit so that you can have an easy time using it. You get it being a universal cleaning kit for all types of shotguns, rifles, and handguns. You can be sure that you can easily clean the common caliber of handguns or rifles with ease. It is the reason it is called a universal cleaning case. You will find that the model is easy for portability. This is because the tools are lightweight and the case has a handle. Moving with it around should never be a problem for you.

Pros

Coveres a large variety of calibers

Very compact in size

Cons

No cleaning oils and lubes included

Not all tools are labeled with a caliber number

2. Otis Technology: The Otis Elite

This professional cleaning kit is meant for the maintenance of rifles and pistols from .17 up to .50 caliber, but it will also just as well take care of the most common shotgun gauges and many inline muzzleloaders out there. Altogether there are over 60 different components in the package. There are 16 firearm specific bronze bore brushes that are labelled with the caliber/gauge size on each brush stem. You’ll also find 3 different aircraft grade memory-flex cables and a thread connector for proper breech-to-muzzle cleaning. Otis also thinks about gun accessories such as lights and sights. That’s why they also include tools for lens maintenance such as lens tissues, a lens brush, spray, and cloth to deliver all you need for optics care.

The kit also includes a complete tactical cleaning kit in compact soft pack cases and you can also find inside 2 bottles of Otis Bio-CLP, which is an all-in-one cleaner, lubricant and protectant that doesn’t leave a harsh odor. Everything is packed in a smooth nylon bag with a carry handle. Although this kit is a bit pricey, it’s a complete tactical weapon cleaning kit that abides the Otis moto “Trusted by the Elite, for the Elite”.

Pros

Tools for lens maintenance

Usable for a wide range of pistols, rifles, shotguns and muzzleloaders

Cons

Price tag

Won't run through barrels longer than 26"

3. M-Pro 7 Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam

M-Pro 7, a company based in Overland Park, Kansas, focuses on designing and production of various combat proven firearm maintenance tools, such as copper removers, gun cleaners, gun oils, synthetic greases as well as universal gun cleaning kits. Their Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam was designed with the needs of tactical shooters in mind, which resulted in a kit containing a number of tools that can be used in order to clean and maintain your weapons for optimal performance and reliability. As far as chemicals are concerned, this kit contains M-Pro 7 very own 4 oz. gun cleaner, a 2 oz. gun oil, as well as 2 oz. copper remover. Not many kits out there comes with chemicals, which is why this is one of the biggest pros of M-Pro 7. On top of that, you’ll also find a number of assorted bore brushes (supporting .22 caliber to 12 gauge guns), a shotgun brush adapter, an M-16 chamber brush, many cleaning patches, a lint-free gun cloth and others.

The weapon cleaning using this kit is quite easy even if you are new to gun cleaning, as it comes with an M-Pro 7 weapons maintenance guide. It might not include as many tools as some other cleaning kits out there, but if you are looking for a kit that’s easy to carry and you don’t have time to look for the basic cleaning chemicals, check out the M-Pro 7 Tactical Cleaning Kit Clam now.

Pros

Includes cleaning chemicals

Weapon maintenance guide included

Cons

Doesn’t offer as many tools as some other kits

You'll need to replace patches more often

4. Allen Company Ultimate Universal Weapon Gun Cleaning Kit

To start with, this is one of the sharpest looking gun cleaning kits out there. Its appearance might be one of the reasons why it has become one of the best selling cleaning kits not just on Amazon. The cleaning tools come in a lightweight durable plastic suitcase, each component having its own compartment. Moreover, there are two extra spaces in which you can place the cleaning oil and solvent (unfortunately, these are not part of the package). This Gloryfire cleaning kit is designed to suffice every regular handgun, rifle, or shotgun user and it provides everything you need to maintain your gun in the best possible condition.

Overall, by purchasing this kit you’ll get hold of multiple brass rods for .17-270 caliber rifles as well as .30 caliber rifles, pistols, shotguns, and muzzle loaders. Then there are also a number of bronze wire brushes, brass spear pointed jags, utility brushes, muzzle guards, brass adapters as well as many cleaning patches and polishing clothes. Most tools, but not all of them, also come with the caliber number engraved. The package also comes with 2 empty bottles that you can use for cleaning oils. This cleaning kit comes in two versions, one including brass jags and tips, while the other contains jags and tips made of high quality plastic. If you are looking for a weapon cleaning kit that is space-efficient and allows you to take care of your pistols, rifles, and shotguns, have a go at Gloryfire.

Pros

Can service many commonly used pistols, shotguns, and rifles

Very compact in size

Cons

No cleaning oils and lubes included

Not all tools are labeled with a caliber number

5. HOPPE'S No 9.Cleaning Kit with Aluminum Rod

You can get this neat little gun cleaning kit at a very good price now. What you will find inside depends on the caliber version you select, although most of the contents are the same. For example, the .38/.357/9mm caliber version comes with a gun bore cleaner specifically designed for these calibers, lubricating oil, absorbent patches and slotted and knob ends. The other versions are .44/.45, .40/10mm, and .22 through .257. There’s always the cleaning tool and a brush for the respective calibers inside.

All versions come packaged in a compact clamshell. The bore cleaner takes care of powder, lead & metal fouling, and rust on your gun. The lubricating oil included doesn’t harden, gum, or expire, which is a great benefit. You can apply the oil on the patches meant for deep cleaning. There’s also an aluminum rod and slotted & knob ends inside. If you are looking for a compact affordable gun cleaning kit for basic gun cleaning and corrosion prevention, select your caliber and get your Hoppe’s Cleaning Kit with Aluminum rod now.

Pros

For a range of different calibers

Includes everything for basic gun cleaning (oil included)

Cons

Doesn’t contain many gun cleaning tools

Budget option - will run out fast

3 Best Ruger
Cleaning Brands

If you are looking for advice on professional cleaning kits for your Ruger LCP take a look at our review of the best brands on the market. The links below lead to the best manufacturers that are available on the market, product-wise and price-wise.

Real Avid

Real Avid has established itself as a trailblazer in the firearm maintenance industry, offering innovative solutions tailored for the meticulous care of firearms, including the Ruger LCP. With a history of developing tools and cleaning kits that cater to the needs of gun enthusiasts and professionals alike, Real Avid has become synonymous with quality and reliability. Their products are designed with the end-user in mind, ensuring that cleaning and maintaining your Ruger LCP not only preserves its condition but also enhances its performance over time. Counting on Real Avid for your gun cleaning needs means entrusting your firearm to a brand committed to excellence and innovation. Their comprehensive cleaning solutions provide a thorough and efficient way to maintain your Ruger LCP, ensuring it operates flawlessly for years to come.

Allen

Allen has carved a niche for itself in the firearms accessory market, becoming a go-to brand for shooters looking to maintain their Ruger LCP in top condition. Known for their durable and practical gun cleaning kits, Allen offers a range of products that stand out for their effectiveness and ease of use. Their commitment to quality has built a strong reputation among gun owners who demand the best for their firearms. Choosing Allen for cleaning your Ruger LCP means relying on a brand that values the longevity and precision performance of your firearm. Their innovative cleaning solutions are tailored to ensure that every component of your Ruger LCP receives the care it needs to function reliably and accurately, making Allen a trusted partner in firearm maintenance.

Check Out Allen
At Amazon

Hoppes

Hoppe's has a storied legacy in gun care, solidifying its position as a cornerstone in the firearms maintenance industry, particularly for owners of Ruger LCP. Founded on the principles of innovation and reliability, Hoppe's has been providing shooters with high-quality cleaning solutions for over a century, making it one of the most trusted names in gun care. Their renowned No. 9 Solvent not only symbolizes their commitment to excellence but also highlights their understanding of the unique needs of firearms, including the Ruger LCP. Relying on Hoppe's for your firearm's maintenance means entrusting it to a brand with a rich history of ensuring guns perform at their best. Their comprehensive range of cleaning kits and solvents are specifically designed to extend the life and accuracy of your Ruger LCP, underscoring why Hoppe's remains a preferred choice for gun enthusiasts worldwide.

Check Out Hoppes
At Amazon

Other Ruger LCP
Cleaning Tools

You know, not all kits come with solvents. And if some kits come with lesser ones, there is always a chance to up your game with a better solvent. So read below and find out which ones are the best ones for your Ruger LCP

1. No. 9 Hoppes Gun Cleaner - The best bore cleaner for your Ruger LCP(From $8.23)

Hoppe’s No. 9 lubricating oil is currently the best selling option when it comes to gun cleaning and maintenance tools. It’s designed to be used for virtually any firearm, however, it can also be applied to fishing reels and other precision mechanisms. This lubricating oil comes in a 0.5 oz. needle point bottle and you are also given a refill bottle containing more than 2 oz. of extra oil. The needle point finish makes it easy to apply the liquid on almost anything.

The extra oil is extremely handy, as the liquid isn’t prone to expiration, so you won’t have to constantly keep buying more bottles if you don’t overdo it with cleaning (but then again, can care of your gun be overdone?). Hoppe’s No.9 relies on high-viscosity oil that they refined to perfection. If you are looking for a gun lube that’s packed in a bottle that fits almost anywhere and you also want to have some spare oil, then this bundle from Hoppe’s is a must have.

2. Break-Free - The best Gun Cleaner spray for your Ruger LCP (From $14.00)

Over the years we’ve tested just about every CLP looking for the best gun cleaner spray and many people swear by the Break Free CLP and say that it’s the best gun cleaning aerosol spray that they have ever used. Break free comes in either aerosol spray cans or spray bottles. Most people prefer the aerosol spay with the little straw on the end, to target individual spots. This CLP has a very high weather tolerance and works in all conditions, which is probably why it’s become so popular.

3. Hoppe’s no. 9 - Best Gun Cleaner Lubricant For Your Ruger LCP (From $7.69)

Hoppe’s again. Well, this is the best one that you can find on amazon, which is rated by the number of happy customers, so we can assume that it’s the best choice for your Ruger LCP. If you are asking - what makes it so great, the answer is: An advanced oil especially designed for the modern firearm. Provides a barrier against moisture and corrosion. Also works great on fishing reels and other mechanisms. Superior lubrication and protection to all areas of your firearm reducing the wear and tear caused by friction.

4. Tetra - Best Gun Grease for your Ruger LCP (From $9.45)

When storing your firearm after cleaning you want to use the best gun grease to preserve it for a long time. When you purchase a new firearm often times you will find that it has a light coat of grease on all of the metal parts. This helps to prevent corrosion that can build up while on the shelf in the store. If the gun is in the original box you can assume it’s been greased by the manufacturer. Most gun stores will decrease the gun before selling it.

5. Pro-Shot - Best Needle Oiler CLP For Your Ruger LCP (From $8.82)

Many people like to include a needle oiler in their gun cleaning kit. This is the best needle oiler we could find and it was a tough pick between this and hoppe’s. But we are getting tired of putting all of hoppe’s products on our list, so we thought we would check the competition. For the most part, people can’t tell the difference between this and the hoppe’s, other than the price difference. This one is slightly less expensive and has a nice red liquid and better needle.

The Importance Of Cleaning Your Ruger LCP


Your Ruger LCP is a tool. Like any other tool, it should be maintained properly as needed. If there is any dirt, mud or any damage that can cause a gun won't work properly, you can have a serious problem. You are betting your life on the gun working when you pull the trigger. The more care you take about your gun, the safer and reliable it works. If you carry your gun a lot, even if you haven’t shot it much, it should be cleaned, lubricated, and function-checked at least once every three months as while carrying, a gun is exposed to body oils, sweat, dirt, dust, lint, moisture, etc. for each and every handgun you own, you should read the owner’s manual for specific disassembly, reassembly, lubrication and cleaning instructions. Let’s find out why your Ruger LCP needs cleaning.

Cleaning and maintenance of your Ruger LCP can be summed up into 3 main reasons:

  • 1. Longevity
  • 2. Personal Gun Knowledge
  • 3. Safety & Reliability

Longevity

Do you want your Ruger LCP to last decades instead of years? Then you must clean it. If your friend has a rifle that is great-great grandfather carried in the swamps of Flanders then you must know, that he takes care of it and does not leave it laying around in his basement. A simple cleaning, oiling and storing the gun in a case or safe can preserve it for a long time. Keep in mind, guns with wooden inserts, handles or stocks will take some extra care. Depending on the type of wood, you can use a wax or sometimes a polish just like you would on your wooden furniture.

Personal Gun Knowledge

It’s simple. The more times you disassemble your Ruger LCP into pieces the more you know how it works, how the part works etc. You get to know your gun from the inside. It may seem hard at the beginning but practice makes perfect and soon you will be able to understand what a skilled gunsmith is talking about. You will also know the wonders of lubrication. It needs a lot of practice to know the right amount. Overlubrication can lead to failure to fire or failure to eject, so you have to be precise with it.

Safety and reliability

Do you know what you should do after you finish firing your Ruger LCP ? You should clean it. It prolongs the life of the firearm and increases the most important matter - safety and reliability. You know, if you are in a threatening situation the last thing you want is a malfunctioning firearm. So keep this in mind and clean, clean, clean.

How To [Completely] Clean Your Ruger LCP In 9 Steps

1. Get A Cleaning Kit

This is obvious we know, but let’s just say you really don’t know how to. So a pre-assembled kit is where you start. A basic cleaning kit includes:

  • Cleaning solvent
  • Lubricant, or gun oil
  • A bore brush
  • A patch holder and patches
  • Cleaning rod
  • A nylon cleaning brush
  • Flashlight
  • Cotton swabs
  • Microfiber cloths for polishing

Now that you’ve got a kit you can continue with the process.

2. Unload your gun

Another obvious step but there is never enough gun safety reminders. Unload your Ruger {GUMODEL} and make sure that the gun is empyu and safe.

3. Disassemble your gun as much as the manufacturer recommends

Your Ruger LCP comes with a user manual so check it for information on recommended disassembly and follow the instructions. This lets you access all the parts that became dirty from gun use.

4. Ventilate your area

You want to keep your Ruger LCP to be clean but at the same time your lungs to be clean. Solvent fumes are noxious and can make you sick. Likewise, the solvent and lubricant used just flat-out smell foul if you try to clean your guns indoors, so keep your family happy and don't stink up the joint. Cover your work surface with plastic bags, newspaper, or old towels you've saved for the purpose. Head out to the garage and put the door up, or clean your guns on a bright and dry day to get them cleaned properly.

5. Clean out the barrel with cleaning rod and patches

Soak the bore, or inside of the barrel, using a cleaning rod, patch holder and the right size cotton patches for your gun. Work from the back of the bore if you can. If not, use a muzzle guard. The muzzle guard keeps the cleaning rod from banging against the muzzle, which can cause your gun to malfunction. To thoroughly clean the barrel out, push a solvent-soaked patch through the bore until it exits the other end. Remove the patch, don't pull it back through. Pulling it back through will just redeposit all the gunk you clean off.

6. Alternate the bore brush and patches to thoroughly scrub the barrel

Remove the patch holder and attach the bore brush. Run the bore brush back and forth along the full length of the bore 3 or 4 times to loosen any debris. Next, reattach the patch holder and run solvent-soaked cotton patches through the bore. Remove them when they exit the front. Repeat this process until a patch comes out clean. Run one more dry patch through to dry it out and inspect it closely for any build-up you may have missed.

7. Lubricate the barrel

Attach the cotton mop to the cleaning rod. Apply a few drops of gun conditioner or lubricant to the cotton mop and run it through the bore to leave a light coating of gun oil on the inside.

8. Clean and lubricate the action with solvent

Apply solvent to the gun brush and brush all parts of the action. Wipe them dry with a clean cloth. Next, lubricate the moving parts of the action lightly. A light coating helps prevent rust. A heavy coating gets gummy and attracts debris, so only use a small amount.

9. Wipe down the rest of your Ruger LCP with a cloth.

This is a flannel cloth that comes pre-treated with a silicone lubricant. It will remove any remaining debris, including acid from fingerprints, and add shine. If you don't have a particular cloth designated for cleaning guns, old t-shirts and pairs of socks work really well for the purpose. Use something you've got lying around and won't need to reuse.

Top 3 Ruger LCP
Cleaning & Maintenance Books

 

One of the key things to remember is regular and repeated practice. Ruger LCP cleaning is best practiced while being supervised by a professional, be it on the range or anywhere else. If you can’t afford a specialist you can always find good resources in books. Cleaning related books and how to’s are one step in your way of training. Yes, you can find loads of articles online, but a book is tough to beat.

1. Gun Owner's Handbook: A Complete Guide To Maintaining And Repairing Your Firearms--In The Field Or At Your Workbench (From $13.00)

Get The Book
At Amazon

A gun is only as good as its owner, and far too many are poorly maintained and serviced, even when brought to "professionals." For the serious hunter and gun owner, The Gun Owner's Handbook takes the mystery out of gun maintenance. Author Larry Lyons covers every aspect of this crucial part of gun ownership, and brings his years of experience to bear on topics from daily maintenance to trickier technical matters.

2. Gun Digest Book of Gun Care: Cleaning & Refinishing, Book 1: Handguns (The How, When and Why of Proper Maintenance: Revolvers, Autoloaders, Blackpower Handguns) (From $9.18)

Get The Book
At Amazon

This is an older publication from 1985 but packs all the needed information of the basics of cleaning and maintenance of any fir style="padding-left:7%; padding-right:7%; padding-bottom:10px; color:#565656"earms. Be sure to update your info with the latest products but keep this old timey knowledge at your side.

3. Shooter's Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning (From $18.07)

Get The Book
At Amazon

Shooter's Bible, the most trusted source on firearms, is here to bring you a new guide with expert knowledge and advice on gun care. Double-page spreads filled with photos and illustrations provide manufacturer specifications on each featured model and guide you through disassembly and assembly for rifles, shotguns, handguns, and muzzleloaders. Step-by-step instructions for cleaning help you to care for your firearms safely. Never have a doubt about proper gun maintenance when you own the Shooter's Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning, a great companion to the original Shooter's Bible.

Ruger LCP Cleaning FAQ

How often should I clean my Ruger LCP?

It's recommended to clean your Ruger LCP after every use to ensure it remains in optimal condition. If you use your firearm frequently, a thorough cleaning session at least once a month is advisable, even if it hasn't been fired, to maintain its functionality and prevent any potential issues caused by dust or moisture.

What cleaning products are safe to use on my Ruger LCP?

For the Ruger LCP, it's important to use cleaning solvents and oils that are specifically designed for firearms. Brands like Hoppe's, Real Avid, and Allen offer products made for gun care that won't damage the metal and composite parts of your firearm. Always avoid household cleaners, as they can be too harsh and cause corrosion or damage to the gun's components.

Can I disassemble my Ruger LCP for a thorough cleaning?

Yes, disassembling your Ruger LCP for cleaning is often recommended to access and properly clean all parts. However, ensure you're familiar with the disassembly process as outlined in your firearm's manual to avoid damaging the gun. If unsure, consult a professional gunsmith or refer to instructional videos from reputable sources to learn the correct disassembly and reassembly procedures.

Accessories

Mod your Ruger LCP with these accessories

Choose from various modifications for your Ruger LCP, including holsters, parts, sights, magazines, grips, lasers, lights and cleaning utilities.

Ruger LCP cleaning

Cleaning for Ruger LCP

Your Ruger LCP needs cleaning every once in awhile. A while being a short period of time, because the more you keep your gun clean the less it may malfunction on you in the time of need. Cleaning can be done with the help of cleaning kits that provide everything necessary for this process. Check article below about options for cleaning your Ruger LCP.