Owning a firearm is more than just a purchase—it’s a commitment to safety, performance, and responsibility. Whether you’re new to firearms or have years of experience, having the right gear is non-negotiable. Let’s dive into the top 5 essentials we think every gun owner should own, based on our expertise here at TFirearms.
1. A High-Quality Cleaning Kit
Maintaining your firearm ensures reliability, accuracy, and longevity. Without regular cleaning, residue and fouling can build up, leading to malfunctions or reduced accuracy.
We strongly recommend the Otis Cleaning Kits. These kits come with everything you need for comprehensive maintenance, including a rigid cleaning rod—perfect for clearing blockages or stubborn debris—and a bore snake, which is ideal for quick, effective barrel cleaning in the field. Bore snakes are gentle on barrels and reduce the risk of accidental damage caused by improper cleaning techniques.
We generally recommend their Defender line of products for good multi-use options, if you want to cover all your bases or have a large number of guns you can’t go wrong with their Elite Cleaning System.
For those looking for alternatives, the Real Avid is another great option. However, their cleaning kits tend to be firearm-specific, which may not suit owners of multiple guns. If you’re an AR owner, though, Real Avid’s tailored solutions can make at-home cleaning a breeze.
Pro Tip: Always ensure your cleaning supplies are compatible with your specific firearm to avoid unnecessary wear or damage.
2. Lubricants and Cleaning Solutions
Proper lubrication is key to a smooth, reliable firearm. A good cleaning solution breaks down residue and fouling, while the right lubricant ensures consistent performance, even under demanding conditions.
For general cleaning, we highly recommend Lucas Oil CLP. Lucas products are excellent for removing stubborn grime while being safe on a variety of surfaces, including polymer and metal.
If you’re dealing with tougher fouling, brake cleaner can be effective, but it must be used cautiously as it can damage plastic components and certain finishes, like those found on Arsenal AKs. A safer alternative is Lucas Contact Cleaner, which provides similar results without the same risk.
When it comes to lubricants, preferences vary at the shop:
- CherryBalmz is excellent for high-heat applications, such as suppressed firearms, thanks to its grease-based formulation that doesn’t evaporate or wear off easily. It’s what I personally prefer to use.
- Microlon is another shop favorite for its long-lasting performance and ability to maintain smooth action in high-friction areas. It’s preferred by Heather and Gannon.
One final product we frequently use is SOTARacha Sauce, a grease-based home brew lubricant that provides consistent performance and reliability similar to CherryBalmz, popularized by Chad Albright of School Of The American Rifle.
Pro Tip: Regularly clean and lubricate your firearm after use, especially in harsh conditions, to maintain peak performance.
3. Snap Caps or Dummy Rounds
Training and diagnostics are crucial for any gun owner, and snap caps are a versatile tool for both. These inert rounds allow for safe dry fire practice, helping shooters improve trigger control and sight alignment without the risk of accidental discharge.
Snap caps also excel in live-fire training for malfunction drills, teaching you to clear jams or stovepipes under controlled conditions. Additionally, they’re invaluable for safely diagnosing firearm issues without using live ammunition.
We recommend the A-Zoom for its durability and compatibility with various calibers.
Pro Tip: Incorporate snap caps into your training routine to develop muscle memory for handling malfunctions and to refine your shooting technique.
4. A Reliable Sling or Holster
Every firearm needs a method of secure carry, whether it’s a sling for rifles or a holster for pistols. These tools not only enhance accessibility but also improve safety by keeping your firearm secure during movement.
At TFirearms, we manufacture custom Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Currently we’re in the final stages of building out the custom builder on our website so you’ll be able to order kydex that way. Subscribe to our mailing list so that you’ll be the first to know when we go live with that feature.
For slings, we recommend reputable manufacturers like:
Slings are essential for rifles, offering stability and convenience for hands-free carry. Holsters, on the other hand, ensure pistols are safely accessible whether you’re at the range or carrying concealed.
If you’re interested in more information on sling selection and application I have a whole video series on our YouTube channel right here going in-depth into the topic.
Pro Tip: Choose slings and holsters that are compatible with your firearm and intended use. A poor fit can hinder performance and safety.
5. High-Quality Ear Protection
Hearing protection is often overlooked but is one of the most critical investments for any shooter. Prolonged exposure to gunfire can cause irreversible hearing damage, so having quality ear protection is a must.
Electronic ear protection, like Walker Razors or Howard Leight earmuffs, allows you to hear ambient sounds while blocking out harmful noise levels. For premium options, consider:
- Sordins for their durability and sound quality.
- Axil GS Extreme 2, which are versatile and low profile
- Ops Core Amps, favored by Ted for their advanced features.
- Peltor Sport Tactical 300, Heather’s personal choice for reliability.
Pro Tip: Electronic ear protection is worth the investment for its combination of safety and situational awareness, especially during training or hunting.
Why These Items Matter
Each of these tools serves a specific purpose, enhancing your firearm ownership experience. From maintaining your gun’s reliability to improving your training and protecting your hearing, these essentials form the foundation of responsible gun ownership.
At TFirearms, we prioritize helping our customers find the right gear to meet their needs. Whether it’s choosing the best cleaning kit, finding the perfect sling, or upgrading your ear protection, our team is here to guide you every step of the way and find the perfect fit for you.
Final Thoughts
Firearm ownership is about more than just having a gun—it’s about being prepared, responsible, and knowledgeable. These five essential items will help you maintain your firearm, train effectively, and stay safe.
Stop by TFirearms to explore our selection of cleaning kits, lubricants, slings, holsters, and ear protection. Our experienced staff is always available to answer questions and ensure you’re equipped with the best gear for your needs.
Stay safe, shoot straight, and we’ll see you next Tuesday for another Tech Tip!
