Best AR-15 Cleaning Kit Reviews in 2022 [Top 10 Picks]

What Are the Benefits of Using Cleaning Kit for AR15?

No matter whether you are an avid shooter or just bought an AR, cleaning your firearm is crucial. Rather than purchasing cleaning tools separately, you can invest in a proper cleaning kit to have many benefits.

After firing the gun each time, different particles like carbon, copper, lead, etc., are collected inside the weapon. If you don’t clean the gun regularly, these particles get stuck inside the gun and reduce the performance. An AR 15 cleaner will allow you to thoroughly clean the gun.

To prevent moisture from affecting the performance of your AR, you need to regularly clean and lube the parts of the weapon. AR 15 rifle cleaning kit contains solvent to clean the gun properly and lubricating oil to reduce friction between parts.

Rust protection is another important benefit of using a gun cleaning kit. These tools help you remove all the corrosive particles from the gun.

Top 10 Best AR 15 Cleaning Kit for The Money

To keep pace with the maintenance required by your AR, you will need an effective and compact cleaning kit. Here are the top cleaning kits of today. Have a closer look at them.

1. FIREGEAR Gun Cleaning Kit For AR-15

Keeping your firearm in pristine condition is the key to getting top-notch performance from it every time. FIREGEAR cleaning kit contains all the necessary accessories to clean your AR-15 with ultimate convenience.

We loved the brass build of the cleaning rods. These rods can take up to three times more stress than usual rods available in the market. So, there will be no chance of breaking the rods while cleaning your gun.

The rods will fit an array of rifles, from .17 to over .30 calibers. They will also work for pistols and shotguns, so you don’t need to buy a separate cleaning kit for handguns.

Different brushes are also included in the box, such as brass brushes and nylon brushes. Brass brushes are useful to clean the gun barrel safely. Nine different mops are also included to remove all the grease from your gun after firing it.

Everything comes in the box, from spear-pointed jags and cleaning patches to slotted patch loops and polishing cloths. And the best thing is, every accessory has its own slot in the box. As a result, the box becomes very compact and easy to carry around.

With all its features, FIREGEAR is so far the best AR-15 cleaning kit out there.

Highlighted Features:

• Equipped with all the accessories you will ever need to clean your AR
• High-quality brass accessories to keep your gun barrel from scratching
• 111 pieces of different equipment to efficiently clean your guns
• Compact carrying case for easy storage and transportation

2. BOOSTEADY Pro .223/5.56 AR15 Cleaning Tool

No matter what the dimension or operating system of your AR is, this cleaning kit will take care of all the grime. You can use it to clean .223 bore or 5.56 caliber rifles.

Though the number of accessories in this kit is less than the previous one, you will find all the necessary items inside the case. The kit has a brass brush and a chamber brush to fit the barrel of your AR-15.

A total of 14 accessories are there to handle the carbon or copper residue inside your rifle. The cleaning rods of this kit is made of pure brass to extend the durability of your gun muzzle.

Alongside, you get a double-ended nylon brush that comes in handy while cleaning hard-to-reach crevices of the gun. Cleaning patches are included with the package so that the process becomes easier.

Screwing the brushes into the cleaning rods is easy. And the rods can take enough stress while cleaning, so there will be no chance of breaking the rods. Unfortunately, there is no oil bottle like the previous one in this kit. So, you might need to buy it separately.

The zippered case is so compact that you can even carry it in your backpack. And we think it is a lucrative option considering the price.

Highlighted Features:

• All necessary accessories for cleaning 5.56 caliber AR
• Cleaning rods and brushes are made of brass
• Double-ended nylon brush for detailed cleaning
• Compact carrying case
• Very affordable

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Compact Pistol Cleaning Kit

Well, this cleaning kit will work for a wide range of firearms, starting from .22 caliber to .45 caliber. No matter where you are, the cleaning kit from renowned firearms manufacturer Smith & Wesson will be the best companion to clean your guns.

The accessories lie inside a compact carrying case. As all of them are quite small, the case size is also small. All the accessories are attached to the case for better handling.

Inside the case, you will find required accessories like brass brushes, spear-pointed jags, nylon brushes, cleaning rods, cleaning patches, etc. Though the cleaning rod isn’t made of brass, it will be highly durable and effective in cleaning your guns.

But the quality of the nylon brush didn’t seem to be excellent. Plastic jags also look flimsy. The reason behind this may be the inexpensiveness of this kit. You get this at under 25 bucks. What more can you expect from such a kit?

The overall build of the kit is satisfactory. Brass brushes work just fine to remove all the residue from gun barrels. And the fit of the brushes and the rod is also fine. All they need is to improve the quality of the build.

Highlighted Features:

• Very lightweight and compact cleaning kit for various handguns
• Brass brushes for effective cleaning
• Nylon brush and cleaning patch included
• The case protects accessories from damage

4. Otis Technology AR Rifle Cleaning Kit

This cleaning kit is suitable for ARs of .223 caliber. You might not have seen this much variety of accessories in a gun cleaning kit for AR15, that too in high-quality. From chamber brush to bore brush and mop, everything is made of brass with top-notch craftsmanship.

They took care of the smallest ridges of your gun and provided things like obstruction remover and pin punch. These accessories will clean your AR-15 with ultimate precision.

Accessories are divided into both sides of the carry bag. The cleaning rod is also made of brass to give high performance in gun cleaning. All accessories in the bag will fit the cleaning road easily.

The most useful addition to the package is probably the Memory Flex cable. It lets you clean the whole barrel from the breach. You can use the pull handle to clean the barrel in the direction of the bullet.

Bent picks work absolutely fine in cleaning AR. You even get a lubricant in the package. A microfiber gun cloth is provided instead of cleaning patches, so you can reuse the cloth.

The brass scraper also comes in handy while taking the last bit of dirt or grime out of the gun.

Highlighted Features:

• All accessories are made of high-quality material
• Brass brushes, cleaning rods, and mops are very durable
• Scraper and obstruction remover ensures deep cleaning
• Memory Flex cable suits .223 caliber AR
• Zippered pouch is durable and compact

5. HOPPE’S No. 9 Deluxe Gun Cleaning Kit

Taking your gun performance to the peak requires detailed cleaning every time after firing it. This gun cleaning kit will cover your back with all the necessary accessories.

All the items are packed inside a dark-stained wooden box. As a result, the sensitive equipment remains safe while carrying. A three-piece brass rod is inside the box to clean stubborn residue from your gun barrel.

Brass and bronze brushes are included to work with the cleaning rod. You can attach the brushes to the rod quite easily. The slotted ends also come in handy while taking the smallest debris out of the gun.

Other than the cleaning equipment, this kit also includes lubricating oil and bore cleaner. The penetrating formula of the cleaner will take all the grime out of the barrel. And the oil will lube gun parts effectively so that the fun retains its performance.

The construction of this cleaning kit will be suitable for an array of handguns and AR. So, you don’t need to buy any other kit.

Highlighted Features:

• Equipped with essential accessories for cleaning AR and handgun
• Cleaner and lubricating oil are provided in the kit
• Heavy-duty wooden box protects the equipment
• Highly portable, so you can carry it anywhere

6. Real Avid Universal PRO AR15 cleaning tools

Instead of screwing different heads with the cleaning rod repeatedly, you can use different rods for different guns with this cleaning kit. Everyone from newbies to avid shooters will find this kit useful alike.

Every gun from .22 caliber to .45 caliber including 12 and 20 gauge shotguns can be cleaned with this kit. The T-shaped handle performs multiple tasks. Bronze brushes help you deep clean the barrel of the gun.

Differently sized nylon jags are also included to remove all the dirt and debris from the gun barrel. You will also get two different mops for your shotguns. Alongside, nylon patch tips are included in the set.

The case design will make you fall in love with the kit. Its housing is divided into two sections so that all the equipment can be organized for easier access. The case might look light, but it is crush-proof to protect the accessories from damage.

You’ll love the simplicity and effectiveness of this cleaning kit. It performs so well that you might not need any other cleaning kit ever. From mere plastic to brass and bronze, every material feels premium in hand.

Another good thing is you can easily store the accessories inside the case by simply snapping them to their respective slots. This makes cleaning your gun a lot easier.

Highlighted Features:

• Premium quality brass, bronze, and nylon accessories are durable
• Includes everything to clean your AR, and Shotguns
• Multi-function T-handle makes cleaning convenient
• Kickstand case is highly protective

7. Breakthrough Vision Series Rifle Cleaning Tools

In a hurry to clean your AR-15? Carry this cleaning kit from Breakthrough in your backpack to give the gun a detailed cleaning wherever you want. It suits .223 caliber rifles.

You will love the compact case that houses all the equipment safely and organizes them in an easily accessible manner. Four stainless steel rods come in the package with one handle to use with all of them.

As the kit only contains AR-15 cleaning tools, you get one piece of everything such as bore brush, chamber brush, mop, etc. The patch holder and the jag are made of brass. A double-ended brush is included in the package, which is made of nylon for better durability.

Cleaning patches are also there to help you in overall cleaning. Along with all the necessary equipment, you will get a solvent and lubricating oil in the package. The solvent will help soften the grime inside the barrel.

And the lubricating oil won’t gum up after use. So, your AR-15 will be in peak condition whenever you need it. Keep this small kit with you to take care of your rifles.

Highlighted Features:

• Ultra-slim carrying case organizes all the equipment
• Package includes all the essential pieces to clean AR-15
• Stainless steel rod is very durable
• Cleaning solvent and lubricating oil are provided

8. Real Avid Portable Cleaning Kit

AR-15 cleaning supplies could never be any better. All these accessories inside the battle green case are absolutely premium. Once you own this kit, you will start to look down upon all other kits out there; it is that good!

You get a total of seven cleaning rods; all of those are made of brass. These rods can form a large section of about 33 inches to easily clean your AR-15. The handle easily fits the cleaning rod to make cleaning a lot easier.

This kit has star chamber brushes and bore brushes with phosphor bronze bristles. These brushes will take care of the sensitive muzzle. Bore obstruction cleaning tips are also included in the package. And you know what?

A separate carbon scraper also comes with the kit so that you can remove the carbon deposit inside the barrel. The sturdy nylon brush will help you clean the bolt carrier.

Unlike most other kits, you will get an illustrated manual that will tell you how to properly disassemble and reassemble your gun parts. This makes cleaning AR-15  a breeze even for newbies.

The case is weatherproof, so you can carry it wherever you want. It will protect all the accessories and easily fit into your backpack. Though the price of this AR 15 gun cleaning kit is a bit higher than ordinary cleaning kits, the performance completely justifies the price.

Highlighted Features:

• Premium brass accessories ensure the best performance
• All essential accessories included to clean AR-15
• Tactical case is compact and durable
• Illustrated manual is included with the kit
• Gives you an edge over ordinary kits

9. Real Avid AR-15 Tactical Maintenance Kit

If you search for a professional maintenance kit to clean and maintain your AR-15, no one can even come close to Real Avid kits. They are some of the most popular and highly effective kits out there.

This one comes fully equipped with accessories you will need to clean your .223 caliber rifle. The main difference between this kit and the kits we have already discussed is in the purpose. Other kits usually include cleaning accessories only.

But this set has everything from gun tools to pivot locks to make maintenance easier than ever. Once you open the tool case, you will find all the required tools organized. The vise block will help you clean stubborn residue from different parts of the gun.

There is a smart mat to keep the disassembled parts of your rifle. So, the chance of losing parts here and there while cleaning is reduced to zero. The gun boss multi kit will contain everything you need. And talking about the case, it is made of 600D nylon to protect all the equipment inside.

The carry handle of the bag is comfortable enough, so you can carry the bag wherever you want. Simply open the bag, and place the mat on a plain surface to start cleaning your AR-15.

Highlighted Features:

• A combination of gun cleaning and maintenance tools
• High-quality smart mat for disassembling and reassembling parts
• Vise Block and Lock Bore Guide for convenient cleaning
• Multi-kit contains necessary equipment

10. JTM 223 A2 Buttstock Cleaning Kit

Moving to the final AR15 cleaning kit on today’s list, JTM A2 features several cleaning rods, brass brushes, nylon brushes, and lubricating oil. This compact cleaning kit will be most suitable for your AR.

Three sections of cleaning rods come in the kit. But unfortunately, they aren’t made of brass. These rods are made of stainless steel. So, if you are looking for brass cleaning rods, you might get disappointed. But chamber brushes are made of brass, which you can fit the cleaning rods. You will also get brass barrel brushes and nylon brushes in the kit.

A cleaning patch tip is also included in this kit. The kit is so small that you can even carry it in your pocket. As a result, the kit comes in handy when you need to battle minor cleaning for your AR.

The carrying case is made of nylon, so it provides enough protection to the equipment inside. The inner layer is made of rubber, which helps absorb some shock to protect the tools.

You can attach the pouch to the buttstock of your AR, so cleaning the gun is possible on the go. This feature is extremely helpful when you are in a hurry but also need the gun to be cleaned properly. We loved the simplicity of the kit.

Highlighted Features:

• Compact cleaning kit for your AR
• Fits right to the buttstock of AR-15
• Stainless steel cleaning rods with brass brushes
• Lubricating oil included in the package

AR15 Cleaning Kit Comparison Table

What to Look Before Purchase AR15 Cleaning Kit?

As cleaning your AR is a very sensitive process, you should have the right tool kit to maintain the gun properly. A minor mistake in choosing the cleaning tool might be downright harmful to the gun. Let’s guide you on how to select the best AR15 cleaning kit.

Essential Tools

A standard AR cleaning kit should contain all the basic components such as cleaning rods, barrel brushes, chamber brushes, handle, bore snake, double-end brush, solvent, lubricant, etc.

You will also need patch tips, patch holders, different jags, and mops in the kit. Each of these tools performs various tasks in cleaning your gun. Though a cleaning mat is also necessary, compact kits might not include mats.

To remove all the particle buildup from your AR, all these AR15 cleaning tools are necessary. So, make sure the kit contains all of these so that you don’t need to buy them separately.

Universal or Dedicated Kit

As we are talking about AR15, the cleaning kit should be compatible with a .223 caliber or 5.56mm rifle. Some kits are versatile and compatible with many different caliber sizes. If you have multiple firearmrs and want to maintain them all with one kit, go for an universal kit with necessary adaptors.

But make sure the kit is suitable for your AR. If the length of the cleaning rod doesn’t match the bore of your rifle, it will be difficult to use.

Kit Size

Larger kits come in sturdy cases and are suitable for professional shooters to take intricate care of their firearms. If you have a fixed schedule of cleaning your guns, having a large kit at your place will be suitable.

But if you want to clean your guns on the go, compact cleaning kits are a must. These kits will contain the most basic equipment like cleaning rods, brushes, patches, etc.

You won’t get bore snake or flex cable in such kits. So, determine your cleaning needs before buying.

High-Quality Material

Each of the above-mentioned tools should be made of the highest quality material. The performance and longevity of your AR mostly depend on maintenance. For example, cleaning rods are commonly made of brass to not hurt the inside of the barrel while cleaning.

Barrel and chamber brushes are mostly made of phosphor bronze bristles to clean stubborn gunk easily. Nylon brushes are used for more delicate parts of the gun. You will also see cotton mops or swabs in these kits.

Make sure all this equipment is made of the right material so that it doesn’t harm the firearm.

Cleaning Patches and Solvents

Cleaning patches can end pretty quickly if you use the gun regularly. This is why your cleaning kit should contain plenty of them. Some kits include microfiber cloths so that you can reuse them.

Having a solvent in the kit is a must to dissolve the buildup and gunk. Lubricating oil is another important part of any AR cleaning kit. Applying the lubricant after cleaning will ensure the gun retains its performance.

Ease of Use

If you need a lot of time to set up the equipment to clean your AR, there’s no point in buying it. Instead, you need something that assembles and disassembles faster and will be ready to use whenever you need it.

For example, some kits have only one cleaning rod for AR 15 that attaches to all the accessories. It is time-consuming to change the head over and over again. If you have multiple cleaning rods, you can use each of them with different attachments.

Case Quality

The case should be tough enough to protect the delicate cleaning tools from any shock. It should also be waterproof so that everything stays in order. Nylon, plastic, or wood is commonly used to make these cases.

Related: List of awesome gun cleaning mats.

How to Clean AR-15 Gun?

Buckle up, because we are about to tell you the cleaning process of your AR. Go through these steps to clean your firearm properly.

Step 1: Get the Complete AR15 Cleaning Kit

The first step in cleaning your firearm is to make sure you have the best AR cleaning kit with all the necessary tools.

Step 2: Prepare the Gun for Cleaning

This step is crucial. You need to prepare a clean surface and place a cleaning mat. Place the gun on top of the mat. Make sure there is no ammunition in the chamber.

Step 3: Disassemble the Gun

Difficulties start from here. You need to take the gun apart to properly clean it. After separating the upper receiver, remove the bolt carrier group. Also, remove the buffer from the tube along with the buffer spring.

Step 4: Deep Clean the Parts

Start cleaning the chamber using a chamber brush made of brass. You should work your way out from the chamber, not from the muzzle. Then, you can clean the barrel with the right tool.

Don’t forget other parts. Clean them all separately and make sure there is no buildup on them.

Step 5: Assemble the Parts Properly

Start putting the parts together in the opposite order you have disassembled them. This step is crucial, so keep an eye on which part goes where.

Step 6: Lubricate the Firearm

After assembling the gun, you need to lubricate the moving parts carefully. If the gun isn’t properly lubricated, it might create issues immediately.

AR Rifle Maintenance Tips for Long Lasting Use

These maintenance tips will really help you keep your firearm in the paramount of its performance.

Guns need regular maintenance. So, make sure you are inspecting the gun after firing every one thousand rounds. The checking should be more frequent when the gun becomes a few thousand rounds old.

While cleaning your AR, closely watch different parts of the gun for faults. Cracks may appear on the parts which will lead to catastrophic outcomes if not checked properly.

Make sure the gun is clean and well lubricated at any point in time.

Caution That You Should Take Care While Cleaning Your AR 15 Rifle

Follow these precautions stated by experts to safely clean your AR15:

• Never point the muzzle of the firearm towards you. Always put the muzzle away from you.
• Thoroughly check the chamber and the magazine for any remaining ammunition.
• Pick a clean and dry place to clean your gun.
• Use a storage box or something to temporarily store smaller cleaning tools and gun parts.
• If you are a newbie, capture the disassembling process so that you know how to reassemble the parts.

People Also Ask

Get the answer to some frequently asked questions about AR cleaning kits.

How often should you clean an AR-15?

The cleaning schedule can vary depending on the gun manufacturer. But you can clean your AR after every five hundred to one thousand rounds while the gun is new. Then you can change the schedule to after every three to five hundred rounds.

How long does it take to clean an AR-15?

It depends on your expertise level. If you are familiar with disassembling and reassembling the gun parts, it might take you 15 to 20 minutes to clean an AR-15. But it should never take more than one hour to clean a rifle.

Is WD40 a good gun cleaner?

Though WD40 is a good solvent and is used in many different cases, cleaning your gun with WD40 is not a good idea. Instead, you should use dedicated solvents for cleaning your AR.

Do you need tp lubricate the inside of a gun barrel?

Experts have varying opinions regarding this topic. But the most popular opinion is you should lightly lubricate the inside of a gun barrel. This will prevent the inside of the barrel from oxidizing.

Should I put solvent on a bore snake?

You can put some solvent on the bore snake to thoroughly clean the barrel. But don’t overdo it; otherwise, the excess solvent might create issues later.

What does fouling mean for an AR15?

Fouling refers to the particle buildup when you fire an ammunition. After firing, the ammunition leaves copper, lead, or carbon residue in the gun barrel. Excessive particle buildup inside the gun can greatly affect its performance.

Conclusion

Cleaning an AR is as fascinating as firing it to firearm enthusiasts. And let us remind you once again, it’s not just a hobby. Cleaning your AR after every use is an ultimate necessity if you don’t want your gun to be out of spec soon.

Now that you know everything about cleaning your AR, it is time to choose the best AR 15 cleaning kit and give your rifle a deep clean.

Maintain the performance of your rifle by cleaning it periodically. Make sure you are taking out every bit of gunk from the rifle.