I was reintroduced to SC-14 Gun Cleaner this spring on a turkey hunt with Arterburn Outdoors. I had first used it a few years earlier and forgotten how effective this product truly is. Our DIY hunt involved a group hunting public land—an epic adventure with some amazing folks. We had both successes and misses, but that’s hunting.
Each hunter had the opportunity to use a Franchi Affinity 3 shotgun. We assembled them, tested various ammunition, and all settled on Federal Custom ammunition for our turkey hunt. When preparing the shotguns, we cleaned them with SC-14 to get them ready for the field. New firearms typically come coated in oil from the factory, making cleaning essential before hunting. The citrus-based SC-14 is formulated to dissolve carbon, lead, copper, and residues, and it worked perfectly in preparing these new firearms for action.
What I appreciate most about SC-14 gun cleaner is its citrus scent. This tells me the cleaner is free from the toxins commonly found in harsh chemical solvents. It won’t harm me or anything it touches—my towels, workbench, or desk. In the past, I often postponed cleaning guns after hunting season because my solvents weren’t safe for indoor use. With SC-14, I’ve cleaned firearms several times at my office workbench without worrying about stains or exposing my family and dog to harsh chemicals. The pleasant smell dissipates quickly, and the cleaner evaporates without leaving residue. I’m also confident using it near wood stocks, as it can be wiped off easily without damaging the finish.
Firearms require minimal lubrication after cleaning, which is ideal because you can apply oil precisely where needed without excess in unwanted areas. For neglected firearms, some soaking may be necessary to remove carbon or copper residue, but this cleaner works quickly to break down buildup. It’s perfect for soaking components like muzzleloader breech plugs—after a quick scrub with a stiff bristle brush, they shine like new and are ready for hunting.
Application Tips
For optimal results with SC-14 Gun Cleaner:
- Field strip the firearm according to manufacturer instructions
- Apply cleaner to heavily fouled areas and let sit for 2-3 minutes
- Use a brush for stubborn deposits
- Wipe clean with a lint-free cloth
- Follow with appropriate lubricant
I appreciate that this cleaner comes in various sizes. I keep large bottles at home on my workbench for regular cleaning and small bottles in my range bag and pack to maintain my firearms in the field. Ordering SC-14 from Amazon is straightforward—you can purchase the sizes you need, up to a one-gallon container.
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