Using Flitz metal polish as a bore cleaner

[timlt]

Gundoc, I seem to recall you're a fan of Flitz products. I have liked their stuff as well, specifically their stock wax, and their metal polish.

Recently I noticed their metal polish said it's great to use as a mild abrasive bore cleaner, similar to JB's, Iosso bore paste, etc. I went to their website and confirmed, then checked around on the web, and I find many advanced gun folks--smiths, benchrest shooters, etc.--saying that Flitz metal polish is indeed safe to use, and right up there with JB's as an effective bore cleaner.

I wanted to get your opinion on this, whether you think their metal polish is safe and effective as a mild abrasive bore cleaner, to be used OCCASIONALLY for heavy duty cleaning to get out accumulated copper build-up, etc. What do you think? (In case you're wondering, why bother using this stuff instead of just JB's for instance, the appeal for me is having one product that can be used for multiple purposes = cost savings. But I don't want to do it if you think it's harmful to a bore).

If you don't know or don't want to give an opinion, that's fine too, just thought I'd check because I know you've tried a lot of these things.

[gundoc]

While I don't use it in that capacity, it's certainly safe to. If you do decide to use it as a bore cleaner be absolutely sure to use a chamber bore guide, i.e. - I would not use it for the mini 14. The polish also cleans chemically and leaves a highly polished finish, that can make the chamber too slick. A chamber that is too slick can, I say can, create a situation where the bullet casing will not grip the chamber walls properly during expansion and create some problems.

The other caveat to Flitz is finishes. I'd test a small spot before doing any exterior polishing. Flitz won't remove bluing, but some of the case hardened finishes today will remove easily with Flitz. Polish the frame on an Uberti and the pretty colors will disappear before your eyes.

A tube of Flitz (I don't care for the little wipes as they dry out quickly) will last the average gun owner a very long time, so it's a good cleaning kit investment, and will also work great on knives, plastic, counter tops, and glass - but not scopes! I know a couple of knowledgeable reloaders who add a little Flitz to their tumbling media and they really like it.