As you've spent time down at the gun range, you may have heard someone mention something called "CLP". Sometimes this term gets thrown around a lot, but not everyone knows exactly what it is. At SEAL 1, that's what we do – hope you keep your guns and equipment in top condition. Understanding what CLP really is can step up your maintenance. So we will give you a breakdown of what it is and why you should be looking at it.
What Is CLP?
What does CLP stand for? It’s an abbreviation for Clean, Lubricate, Protect. These are all of the things you need to keep your firearms tiptop, all in a single product. Back in the day, you’d need separate cleaners, oils, and rust protectors to maintain your gun. It worked, but it was a pain. CLP changed that by packing all those functions into a single formula, saving you time and hassle without cutting corners.
History of CLP
It basically came from the military. The military was looking for something reliable that they could use in different tough conditions, like dust or mud, things that soldiers would likely be in. Soldiers need to travel white and so they didn't want them caring a bunch of different products. They literally needed an all in one product, and this is where CLP was born.
Fast forward to modern day, it is in used by hunters, competition, shooters, and anyone who likes to take care of their firearms.
Not every CLP is created equal, though. At SEAL 1, we’ve taken it to the next level with our SEAL 1 CLP Plus®—a bio-based, non-toxic formula that’s USDA-approved as eco-friendly. So, when someone asks, “What’s CLP?” you can say it’s not just a product—it’s a smarter way to care for your firearms.
What Does It Do?
CLP basically has three main jobs.
First, the C stands for clean. It can be used to clean carbon or powder residue from a day at the range.
Second, it lubricates. Can't have a lot of moving parts. Everything from the slide, the bolt, the trigger, everything needs to work smoothly to function correctly. Using a good CLP produces the friction so everything runs like it should. Our formula sticks where it’s needed -- even under heat or pressure -- and doesn’t attract dirt like petroleum-based lubes.
Finally, it protects. Moisture, salt, and air can rust your gun if you’re not careful. CLP puts up a barrier to keep corrosion away, whether you’re storing your firearm for the season or carrying it through a wet hunting trip.
Get it? CLP is an all-in-one shield for your gun—cleaning, lubricating, and protecting.
What Should You Use It On?
CLP is extremely versatile. It's not just for guns, although that's where you will hear this being used a lot.
Firearms are the main focus. From pistols to rifles to shotguns, CLP keeps every part in great condition. Use it to clean barrels, lubricate slides, and protect frames, whether it’s your everyday carry or a hunting rifle. SEAL 1 CLP Plus® even works on black powder guns, cutting through fouling without the mess of traditional cleaners.
But CLP’s not limited to guns. It’s great for other gear, too. Archery folks use it to lubricate bowstring tracks and protect metal parts from rust. Fishermen like it for reels and tackle—it stands up to saltwater corrosion. Knife collectors apply it to blades and hinges to keep them smooth and sharp. We’ve heard from customers who use SEAL 1 on everything from motorcycle chains to camping equipment. If it’s metal and you want it to last, CLP can help.
In tactical settings, like law enforcement or military work, CLP is a must. It’s lightweight, easy to apply, and holds up in extreme conditions—deserts, jungles, or snowy mountains. SEAL 1 CLP is non-toxic, so it is nice to know that you can use this without worrying about fumes, for example, in tight spaces.
Why Choose SEAL 1 CLP?
SEAL 1 CLP Plus® is the best and we’ve got the proof to back it up. A lot of traditional CLPs use petroleum-based chemicals that can hurt the environment and leave a greasy mess. Our formula’s different. It’s made in the USA with bio-based ingredients, so it’s safe for you, your gear, and the outdoors. But it still delivers—cleaning deeper, lubricating longer, and protecting better than most.
Hunters rely on it to handle mud and rain without a hitch. Competitive shooters trust it to keep their firearms cycling smoothly, shot after shot. And since it’s not a hazmat product, you can throw it in your range bag or ship it anywhere without a second thought. CLP is just as much of a tool as your other tools are. With SEAL 1, it’s exactly that—a top-tier choice that’s earned its place in the field.
Ready to try it out? Check out our shop page to purchase SEAL 1 CLP Plus® and our other American-made products. Give it a try and see what it can do!
