40 Ways to Put Ballistol® Oil to Use Around the Home

Emily Fazio
·3 min read

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Ballistol® oil is one of the most popular multi-purpose oils for home and recreation enthusiasts, making it a must-have in the workshop or garage. Its 100+ year legacy isn’t soon going to be diminished. This product is different from other oils in many ways. To quote the manufacturer itself, it “cleans, lubricates, protects, and preserves just about anything.”

  • 100% eco-friendly

  • Skin-safe

  • Non-carcinogenic

  • Water-soluable

  • Safe on all metals when used as directed

If you don’t already own it, you can buy Ballistol® at a great price on Amazon or at your local hardware store. One non-aerosol bottle will last a really, really long time (it has an indefinite shelf life, so you’re safe). You can get it with a trigger, without a trigger, as an aerosol, or as a convenient wipe. Choose your solution and get to work.

Now, let’s unpack the purpose of this very versatile product. From firearms to leather, machinery to metal, some people liken Ballistol® to an unsung hero. Not only does it keep your gear in top-notch shape, but it’s a game-changer when it comes to tool maintenance.

How to Use Ballistol® Oil

  • You can use the non-aerosol product without a trigger and apply it to products using a bamboo cloth, cotton swab, or cotton ball

  • Attach a spray trigger nozzle to shoot a stream to targeted areas (no mist)

  • Swap for the aerosol product for a pressurized blast of oil

  • Use the pre-moistened cloths to wipe down and clean surfaces

Put it to Good Use

Maintain Your Firearms

  • Clean, lubricate, and protect firearms. Refer to the mix ratio chart if you’re cleaning ammo or black powder residue.

  • Prevent corrosion and rust on gun barrels and other metal components

  • Use as a lubricant for firearm cleaning patches during the cleaning process

Take Care of Your Knives

  • Protect knife blades to prevent rust

  • Dust and lubricate folding knife mechanisms for ease of use

Care For Your Tools (Even Antiques)

  • Lubricate and protect hand tools, garden tools, and power tools

  • Prevent rust on metal surfaces

Maintain your Boat and Fishing Gear

  • Protect metal surfaces on boats and marine equipment from saltwater corrosion

  • Lubricate and protect marine hardware

  • Lubricate fishing reels for smooth operation

  • Protect fishing tools and other equipment from the elements

Tune-Up Your Bicycle

  • Lubricate bike chains and gears

  • Protect metal components from rust and corrosion

Treat Your Leather

  • Condition and protect leather goods such as boots, holsters, and belts

  • Restore and maintain the suppleness of leather.

  • Soften and protect leather gloves

  • Avoid using this product on suede! It can cause stiffening.

Tackle Projects Around the House

  • Lubricate hinges, latches, and door locks on your windows and doors—even your vehicle doors!

  • Protect and maintain rubber seals and weather stripping

  • Prevent corrosion on your car’s battery terminals

  • Protect your car against salt erosion

  • Clean tar off your vehicle

  • Clean and protect stainless steel appliances

  • Remove adhesive residue from surfaces (yes, just like Goo Gone®)

  • Lubricate zippers

  • Winterize motors

Polish Wood

  • Enhance the color and grain (it’s safe on finished and unfinished wood)

  • Revive unpainted antique furniture

  • Protect wood from insect damage

  • Create a barrier against moisture and humidity

  • Prevent wood handles on tools from drying out

Maintain Your Electronics

  • Clean and protect electrical contacts

  • Displace moisture from electronic components

  • Revive faded gel coats

Remove Dust

  • Clean dust from surfaces

  • Add a protective layer that prevents future build-up

Penetrate Rust

  • Treat rusted parts and help loosen stuck nuts and bolts

  • Clean rusted surfaces

  • Corrosion-inhibiting properties prevent future oxidation

Personal Care

Use as a skin-friendly protectant for chafing or irritation.