Overview

Break Free CLP is the standard-issue cleaning, lubricating, and preserving compound across all branches of the U.S. military, qualified to MIL-PRF-63460E. That mil-spec qualification is not marketing language; it means the product has passed rigorous government testing for performance across temperature extremes, corrosion resistance, lubricity under load, and material compatibility. Every other CLP on the market is functionally compared against Break Free as the baseline, whether the manufacturer admits it or not.

The formula uses a synthetic oil base with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE/Teflon) micro-particles that bond to metal surfaces, reducing friction while providing a durable barrier against moisture and corrosive contaminants. The operating temperature range spans -65F to +475F, which covers everything from Arctic deployments to sustained rapid fire. As a cleaner, it loosens and lifts carbon and powder fouling. As a lubricant, the Teflon particles reduce metal-to-metal contact wear. As a preservative, the oil film prevents rust and corrosion during storage. It handles all three roles adequately in a single application.

The honest assessment: Break Free CLP is a jack-of-all-trades product. It cleans, but not as aggressively as a dedicated solvent like Hoppe's No. 9 or Bore Tech Eliminator. It lubricates, but not as persistently as a dedicated lube like Slip 2000 EWL. It protects, but not as durably as a dedicated rust preventive. What it does well is provide a one-product solution for field maintenance, patrol rifle upkeep, and general-purpose gun care where carrying three separate products is impractical. For most shooters running under 500 rounds between cleanings, CLP applied generously to the bolt carrier group and a few drops on the trigger is all the maintenance needed.