The Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless products promising the moon. The Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz is a product that I recently acquired to explore its cleaning, lubricating, and protecting capabilities. It is an all-in-one solution for firearm maintenance in a tiny package.
I’m always on the lookout for efficient and reliable cleaning solutions, especially for my firearms, which regularly face harsh conditions. I needed a product that could effectively remove carbon buildup, provide smooth action, and protect against corrosion. The Tetra product piqued my interest due to its all-in-one nature and its size.
Upon receiving the tiny .02 oz vial, I was immediately struck by its diminutive size. It’s smaller than my pinky nail! The packaging was simple, and the oil itself appeared clear and viscous. Compared to larger, more established brands like Hoppe’s No. 9 or CLP Break-Free, which I’ve used for years, the Tetra felt almost like a sample, or a novelty item. I hoped the concentrated formula would make up for the lack of volume.
My initial reaction was a mix of amusement and skepticism. I thought, “Can something this small really make a difference?” However, I was also intrigued by the promise of a triple-action formula and eager to see if Tetra could deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz on my trusty AR-15 after a day at the shooting range. The range day involved firing approximately 300 rounds of .223 ammunition, leaving a noticeable amount of carbon fouling on the bolt carrier group and other critical parts. I applied a very small drop of the Tetra oil to a cleaning patch and began wiping down the affected areas.
The oil seemed to effectively dissolve the carbon buildup, and the patch quickly turned black. I noticed the action became noticeably smoother after applying the oil. I also tried it on my EDC Glock 19 after concealed carrying it for two weeks.
Initially, I struggled to gauge how much oil to use, due to the small quantity available. Less is more in this case, I discovered.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz on various firearms, I can say it holds up surprisingly well for its size. I’ve cleaned my hunting rifle, my shotgun, and a few of my pistols with this small vial. A little goes a very long way.
Durability is not really a factor, as it’s a consumable product. However, the oil has not shown any signs of degradation or separation over time. The firearms treated with the Tetra oil have remained free of rust and corrosion, even after being exposed to humid conditions.
Maintaining firearms treated with the Tetra oil is relatively straightforward. The oil doesn’t seem to attract excessive dirt or grime, and subsequent cleaning sessions are quicker and easier. It outperforms some of the thicker, more viscous lubricants I’ve used in the past, which tend to attract more debris.
Breaking Down the Features of Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz
Specifications
- Product Name: Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz
- Manufacturer: Tetra
- Type: All-in-one cleaner, lubricant, and protectant.
- Base: Petroleum-based.
- Size: .02 oz (approximately 0.59 ml).
The petroleum base offers good cleaning and lubrication properties, while the triple-action formula aims to simplify firearm maintenance. The size is extremely small, making it ideal for emergency kits or on-the-go applications, but impractical for regular, heavy use.
Performance & Functionality
The Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz performs adequately as a cleaner, lubricant, and protectant, especially given its tiny size. It effectively removes carbon fouling and other debris, provides smooth action, and protects against rust and corrosion.
Its main strength is its portability, making it convenient for field maintenance or emergency situations. However, the small quantity is a significant weakness, limiting its use for extensive cleaning or long-term maintenance. It meets basic expectations for cleaning and lubrication, but it does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is minimalist, consisting of a small vial with a screw-on cap. The build quality is adequate, but the plastic vial feels somewhat flimsy.
There’s no real learning curve; simply apply a small drop of oil to a cleaning patch or directly to the firearm’s moving parts. However, dispensing such a small amount of oil can be tricky, and it’s easy to accidentally spill or waste some of the product.
Durability & Maintenance
As a consumable product, durability is not a major concern. The oil itself appears stable and doesn’t seem to degrade quickly.
Maintenance involves simply applying the oil as needed. The oil doesn’t seem to attract excessive dirt or grime, making subsequent cleaning sessions easier.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no accessories included with the Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz, and there are no customization options available. It’s a simple, standalone product designed for basic firearm maintenance.
It is compatible with standard cleaning patches and tools. However, its tiny size limits its usability with larger cleaning setups.
Pros and Cons of Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz
Pros
- Extremely portable: Ideal for emergency kits or on-the-go applications.
- Triple-action formula: Simplifies firearm maintenance by combining cleaning, lubrication, and protection.
- Effective cleaner: Adequately removes carbon fouling and other debris.
- Provides smooth action: Improves the functionality of firearm moving parts.
- Protects against corrosion: Helps prevent rust and corrosion in humid conditions.
Cons
- Extremely small quantity: The .02 oz size is only sufficient for very limited use.
- Flimsy packaging: The plastic vial feels somewhat fragile.
Who Should Buy Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz?
The Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz is perfect for shooters who prioritize portability and need a compact cleaning solution for emergency kits or on-the-go maintenance. It’s also suitable for those who want to try a new cleaner/lubricant without committing to a larger, more expensive bottle.
Those who require a larger quantity of cleaner for regular, extensive firearm maintenance should skip this product. Professional gunsmiths or frequent shooters who clean multiple firearms regularly will find the small size impractical. A must-have accessory is a needle applicator for precision application of the oil.
Conclusion on Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz
The Tetra Triple Action Cleaner/Lubricant/Protectant .02 oz is a niche product that excels in portability and convenience. It offers adequate cleaning, lubrication, and protection in an incredibly small package, making it ideal for emergency kits or on-the-go applications.
However, the tiny size is a significant limitation, restricting its use for extensive cleaning or long-term maintenance. At $4.99, the price is justified if you absolutely need the smallest possible all-in-one solution.
I would recommend it to anyone who values portability above all else and needs a compact cleaning solution for emergency situations. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to purchase larger quantities of cleaner for regular use. Keep your firearms clean and ready for anything!