I've used paint stripper to clean a gun that was loaned out and came back a total mess. It works fine now, I don't know that this is reccomended, it did work for me. I use 4jaws ways of cleaning my guns when I use them, be careful storing them though. And don't lend your good guns out to friends, that's what the cheapie from Harbor Freight Salvage is good for. :skeptic: Dan