Invented in the 1980s, the fluoropolymer additive, commonly known as PTFE, makes a synthetic gun lubricant better. The difference between an oil or grease with or without this ingredient delivers the key ingredient in friction fighting ability. These particles, just a few microns in size, act as a buffer between two gunmetal surfaces, preventing the shear contact that causes parts wear. As metal parts either slide or bang against one another, the particles are stressed under this load bearing, and actually flexing under pressure – kind of like a ballon.

When you attempt this with a hard particle, you will be making a mistake because it will grind like sandpaper, and contribute to metal scarring. And, the fluoropolymer will fill in the microscopic pores that dip under the metal surface, filling them up, creating a bear ball smooth surface, when combined with the common properties of any decent lubricant oil base. The Tetra Gun brand was one of the few to offer a special version of the particle that was engineered into a spherical shape for better results.

When the fluoropolymer concept was first introduced to the firearms industry, leading gun manufacturers tested it and quickly adopted the material as a benefit to smoothing out the gun parts, and delivering a more successful experience for the gun owner. Needless to say, misfires and gun jams were reduced when treated with fluoropolymer infused lubricant. There were several brands that joined the fray over the years. However, it was determined that those synthetic lube brands that put in generous doses of PTFE were delivering superior results, while some brands offering a minimal amount were benefitting, but they were less successful in making an impression.

A common question is, do the particles come off, or do they stay there. The answer is that retention is good, but some do fall out, and they can definitely be wiped off, but not completely so fast. As it turns out, there is a difference between your first treatment, and the successive lubrications. As you polish in the oil or grease, it penetrates. It has been documented by many in the user community that after a regiment of firings and re-lubrications, the results continue to get better to the point where groupings are tighter and situations like short stroking is addressed. Also, in its grease form, synthetic lube will actually take a pound off a trigger pull after a treatment. This experience is known as bore conditioning.

Overall, when gunmetal is treated with fluoropolymer lube, after a shoot, you can literally dry wipe carbon residue off and most of the lube will still be there. Once again, the magic is in the PTFE particles suspended and embedded in that bore surface, acting as a barrier between the gun parts and the potential fouling that tries to cling to the metal.

Cleaning is still important, but it is the lubricant that is the maintenance step that will make your life as a gun owner easier. Or, you can choose to do it the hard way. #fluoropolymer #syntheticgunlube #synthetics #ptfe #guncleaning #gungrease #gunlube #gunoil #boreconditioning #borecare #gunmetal