REM Oil, renowned for its exceptional performance in firearm lubrication, is often considered for use as a CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant). While it exhibits some characteristics suitable for this role, it's crucial to understand its strengths and limitations before making it your go-to CLP. This in-depth analysis will explore REM Oil's suitability as a CLP, examining its performance in cleaning, lubrication, and protection, while also comparing it to dedicated CLP products.
REM Oil: A Closer Look at its Properties
REM Oil is a high-quality gun oil formulated with a blend of synthetic esters and additives designed for superior lubrication and protection against rust and corrosion. Its thin viscosity allows for easy penetration into tight spaces, facilitating lubrication of intricate firearm mechanisms. However, its primary function is lubrication, not necessarily cleaning.
REM Oil as a Cleaner: Strengths and Weaknesses
While REM Oil can help loosen some fouling, it's not a powerful solvent like dedicated CLP cleaners. It excels at lubricating moving parts after cleaning but doesn't effectively dissolve carbon buildup, powder residue, or other stubborn contaminants. For heavy fouling, a dedicated solvent-based cleaner is recommended as a pre-treatment before applying REM Oil.
Strengths:
- Lubrication after cleaning: After thoroughly cleaning your firearm, REM Oil provides excellent lubrication to moving parts.
- Minimal residue: Its thin viscosity leaves minimal residue, reducing the chance of attracting further dirt or debris.
Weaknesses:
- Limited cleaning power: Not effective at removing significant fouling or carbon buildup.
- Not a primary cleaner: Should not be used as a replacement for a proper cleaning solvent.
REM Oil as a Lubricant: Where it Excels
REM Oil's strength lies in its lubrication properties. The synthetic esters provide excellent film strength, reducing friction and wear on delicate firearm components. Its low viscosity ensures easy penetration into tight tolerances, facilitating smooth operation.
REM Oil as a Protectant: Rust and Corrosion Prevention
REM Oil's formulation includes corrosion inhibitors that offer good protection against rust and corrosion. However, dedicated CLP products often contain more robust corrosion inhibitors providing longer-term protection, particularly in harsh environments.
REM Oil vs. Dedicated CLPs: A Comparative Analysis
Dedicated CLPs are formulated specifically to clean, lubricate, and protect firearms. They often incorporate stronger cleaning solvents, more aggressive corrosion inhibitors, and lubricants tailored for specific needs. While REM Oil offers excellent lubrication and some protection, a dedicated CLP generally provides a more comprehensive solution for firearm maintenance.
| Feature | REM Oil | Dedicated CLP |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Weak | Strong |
| Lubrication | Excellent | Good to Excellent |
| Protection | Good | Generally Superior |
| Overall Suitability as CLP | Limited; best used as a lubricant after cleaning | Superior; all-in-one solution |
Conclusion: REM Oil's Place in Firearm Maintenance
REM Oil is a fantastic lubricant for firearms, offering exceptional performance in reducing friction and protecting against wear. However, it shouldn't be considered a primary CLP. Its limited cleaning capabilities necessitate the use of a dedicated solvent-based cleaner before application. For comprehensive firearm maintenance, utilizing a dedicated CLP alongside REM Oil for lubrication post-cleaning is recommended. REM Oil plays a specific and important role, but not as a complete replacement for a purpose-built CLP.
