Miracle Oil
A tried-and-true formula still works wonders.
By Shannon Farlow
Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil, first formulated more than a century ago, remains popular because it has so many uses.
Technological advances across today’s firearms, ammunition, optics, and training systems have elevated shooting performance at the range and in the field. However, one leading gun-care brand continues to serve the needs of a growing number of shooters with a product created 120 years ago. Ballistol USA offers a full line of premium gun-care products, but the company remains best known for the original formula Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil, which was developed in 1904.
A “Miracle Oil”
Innovative shooting sports products can often be traced back to a military origin. This holds true for Ballistol, which was developed by Dr. Helmut Klever for the German military at the beginning of the 20th century. The “miracle oil” was actually a mineral oil that excelled at cleaning, lubricating, and protecting every part of a firearm, including the wood stocks. It could protect a soldier’s leather kit from the elements and was even used to treat minor cuts, lacerations, and bruises.
After dominating the European gun-care scene for decades, Ballistol entered the U.S. market in 1993, where it became a hit with the muzzleloading community as a blackpowder solvent. American blackpowder shooters soon discovered the oil’s do-it-all qualities and began using it for everything from sharpening knives to waterproofing hunting boots.
All-In-One Solution
Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil works on virtually everything—metals, wood, leather, rubber, and most synthetics. It won’t harden or gum up over time like some lubricants. It also won’t freeze, even in the coldest temperatures. Because the biodegradable oil contains no carcinogens and isn’t harmful to skin, it can be safely applied using bare hands.
Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil can be used on every gun and is safe for all stocks. It removes carbon residue and bore fouling, lubricates moving parts, and protects against rust and corrosion, making it an ideal all-in-one solution for gun owners.
“The ability to clean, lubricate, protect, penetrate, and preserve all firearms has made Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil the go-to oil for all shooting sports,” says Ballistol USA president Patrick Palumbo.
Not Just for Guns
Because it has such a wide range of applications, Ballistol generates consistent sales year-round. In addition to gun care, customers purchase the oil to use on equipment, tools, security locks, and much more.
“Ballistol products have been doing extremely well in farm- and home-supply stores,” Palumbo says. “With so many uses for it, you should always keep a can handy for anything from a frozen lock on a ranch gate to a dusty saddle that needs to be cleaned.”
Ingredients for Success
Ballistol’s popularity in the United States is growing. Sales for 2023 are up a solid 30 percent over the previous year. Palumbo attributes the company’s success to two key factors—a broad marketing campaign backed by a highly effective product.
“We continue to build brand awareness through multiple marketing channels, including print advertising, network television, digital advertising, and maintaining a strong social media presence,” he says. “It also helps to have a product that truly works so well that customers stick with it after trying for the first time. The effectiveness of our product is the biggest thing driving our sales. Simply put, Ballistol works.”
Also important, the company is focused on providing exceptional customer service. They have also been working hard to grow their dealer network, partnering with local gun stores and shooting ranges across the country.
“We love dealing directly with our dealers and offer low minimums for our brick-and-mortar partners,” Palumbo says. “Whether you have a simple how-to question or need to place an order, a real person will answer the phone and be able to help you. We have always offered a money-back guarantee on our products and will never be afraid to do so.”
New Products for 2024
Ballistol USA continues to expand their gun-care lineup. They recently released a new suppressor cleaner, which has been welcomed by long-time customers as well as shooters who are new to the brand. Using the Ballistol suppressor cleaner is a simple, one-step process. Best of all, it solves the common problems inherent with cleaning suppressors.
“Not only is it an excellent suppressor cleaner, but it does a great job at removing any stubborn fouling,” Palumbo says. “I really like using this to clean AR bolts and muzzle brakes as well.”
The company is set to introduce several new products in 2024, including a bore solvent, bluing repair, synthetic lubricants, and specialty cleaning tools. Although the new product lines are expected to generate enthusiasm from shooters of all stripes, it’s a sure bet that the original Ballistol Multi-Purpose Oil will continue to serve shooters for generations to come. (ballistol.com)
