Ed's Red Bore cleaner

[rmc51]

Overview of Ed's Red Bore Cleaner​

Ed's Red is a homemade bore cleaner that has gained popularity among firearm enthusiasts for its effectiveness and low cost. It was developed by Ed Harris and is known for its ability to clean firearm bores efficiently.​

Ingredients and Recipe​

The original recipe for Ed's Red includes the following components:​

Dexron ATF	1 part
Kerosene (K1)	1 part
Aliphatic Mineral Spirits	1 part
Acetone (optional)	1 part
Lanolin (optional)	200 grams per liter

​

​

​

​

Notes on Ingredients​

• Dexron ATF: Acts as a solvent and lubricant.
• Kerosene: Provides cleaning action and is a safer alternative to turpentine.
• Aliphatic Mineral Spirits: A safer solvent option compared to traditional turpentine.
• Acetone: Optional for faster cleaning but can be harmful in enclosed spaces.
• Lanolin: Optional, enhances lubrication and corrosion protection.

​

​

​

Effectiveness​

Ed's Red is particularly effective at removing carbon fouling and primer residues. While it does not chemically dissolve copper fouling, regular use can help reduce copper deposits by cleaning out old fouling that contributes to buildup.​

Cost Comparison​

Using Ed's Red can significantly reduce cleaning costs compared to commercial bore cleaners. The total cost to mix a gallon of Ed's Red is approximately $20, making it a budget-friendly option for regular firearm maintenance.​

Usage Tips​

• Mix the ingredients outdoors or in a well-ventilated area due to the fumes.
• Store the mixture in a metal container to avoid reactions with plastic.
• Regular use can lead to cleaner bores and less fouling over time.

​

​

They don't make classic Hoppes #9 original anymore!​

My Thirty Years With ''Ed's Red'' Bore Cleaner... Home-Mix Still Works

By C.E. ''Ed'' Harris - Updated 2/20/2021.
https://forum.castbulletassoc.org/thread/my-thirty-years-with-ed-s-red/