8 Best Penetrating Oil

Penetrating oil also referred to as penetrating liquid is a low-viscosity, petroleum-based lubricant. The best penetrating oil does usually has a low viscosity. Therefore, it flows effortlessly when applied to affected parts.

Penetrating oils got their name from their capability to penetrate/enter in the narrowest spaces in the middle of the threads of two parts. These oils usually displace other materials and leave a thin coating of oil in the surface pores of a given object.

Though they can be used for general lubricating purposes. This is not entirely wise due to the oils’ volatile nature. Normally, they vaporize in a very short period of time. Thus, they leave behind very little lubrication remains.

If you can’t wait… jump to the desired product so you don’t waste your time:

1. Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil
2. Blaster Penetrating Catalyst
3. wd 40 penetrating oil
4. Gibbs Brand Lubricant
5. 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil
6. Kano Aerokroil Penetrating Oil
7. Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil
8. Royal Purple Maxfilm Synthetic Penetrating Oil
9. Gasoila Free All Rust Eater Deep Penetrating Oil

Composition of Penetrating Oils

Generally, penetrating oils are made of a mixture of methyl silicone, zine dialkyl thiophsphate, polymethacryalate, tert-dibutyl-p-cresol, alkyl succinic acid, lower alkylbenzenes, and lower alkanols in a stock of kerosene bright lube oil.

The alkanols elements are normally included as lower alcohol variations, such as propanol or methanol. Tax and economy purposes call for a mixture of methanol and isopropanol in a ratio of 1 to 5.

Bright oil base is normally developed from a mixture of natural paraffin oils that are typically pre-treated for high viscosity and low viscosity lubricants. Antioxidants and reducing agents are those regularly added to oils for motors and may vary in quantity when used in penetrating oils.

Types of Penetrating Oil

Micro Dispersant Penetrating Oils

This kind of penetrating oil has solid lubricant particles that exist in synthetic or natural oil-based and are fire-resistant. The particles of the oil can be of any variety of solid lubricants. The best examples include polytetrafluoroethylene, graphite, and boron nitride.

Straight Oils

Straight penetrating oils are the ones frequently used for mechanical applications. These are non- emulsify oils made from base mineral lubricants with esters, fats, or extreme pressure additives, including phosphorous, sulfur, and chlorine.

Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic Fluids

Semi-synthetic and synthetic penetrating oils and penetrants are composed of synthetic compounds, such as blends of synthetic fluids and water; chlorofluorocarbons, di-esters, esters, poly-glycol, and silicone.

Emulsion/Water Soluble Fluids

Emulsion and water-soluble liquids have a very low concentration or a high dilution and consist of high water content fluids. These penetrating oils and penetrants are usually used in a diluted version with a concentration percentage of up to 10 percent.

What Do You Use Penetrating Oil For?

Standard Uses

Penetrating oils are regularly used in energy, automotive, and manufacturing firms. As far as standard uses are concerned, there are three general applications:

• As an anti-corrosive coating or as a water repellent
• Loosening trends on axles seized bolts and other fasteners
• Oiling sensitive or fast-moving machine parts

The low viscosity nature of penetrating oils allows them to lubricate parts without resistance. It is typically easier to apply as well as reapply the best penetrating oil with aerosol spray, especially too hard to reach places.

Low viscosity oil seeps deep into the narrowest places when you apply to stuck threads. This helps to loosen encrusted deposits and free the pieces. A good penetrant will help to easily loosen tightly fit moving parts, especially ones that make noise.

The top penetrating oil for rusted bolts are effective at protecting aluminum and iron from rust. This is so since the oil has a trend of expanding across the applied surfaces in a uniform coat and it’s capable of repelling water molecules.

Non-Standard Uses

Penetrating oils are made up of hydrocarbons with up to 20% in liquefied carbon dioxide and an exception of 10% to 15% in inert materials. One of the outstanding nonpolar solvents, which is normally liquid under normal conditions is hexane.

Water, which is a polar solvent, is typically effective at breaking up and dissolving specific substances, including metal ions, sugars, and salts. However, water is useless at dissolving non-polar solvents (plastics, fats, or oils).

For that reason, penetrating oils can be used to get rid of:

• Spray paint
• Acrylic paint
• Dripped varnish
• Permanent marker, stickers, chewing gum, and among other troubles that cannot simply be broken down by the water.

Top 8 Penetrating Oil Reviews

1. Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil

The Kano Kroil is the best penetrating oil for rusted bolts. It penetrates and loosens frozen metal parts in minutes. It quickly loosens rusted bolts and nuts.

Kroil penetrates to 1 millionth inch spaces, dissolving and preventing rust without attacking the metal. The oil displaces water, dissolved gum, dried grease and provides lubrication.

Kroil has a unique chemical structure that was engineered chemically in a laboratory. This defines the interdisciplinary electrical, physical, chemical mechanical properties that work well with joint metal parts.

The scientific principle behind Kriol’s work is that it reduces surface tension and creeps in. The oil has a unique molecular architecture creating an affinity to the metal. This product loosens every frozen inch of the metal.

Kano Kroil Penetrating oil is pretty expensive to acquire. To save on money if needed every now and then, do not pour so much of it to avoid spilling and make sure it stays in its can.

What Are The Uses Of Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil?

You can use the oil on mowers, tractors, autos, and guns. It can easily loosen a bolt or a stripped screw stuck together with rust. It is the best thing when it comes to dealing with firearms.

It also works on brass and aluminum threads and can resolve frozen fittings of objects such as cameras.

How is Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil Used?

Using Kano Kroil is a simple task. You will need a cotton ball to make rusting easier. Put the ball on the mouth of the bottle and fill it with Kroil. Put the ball at any place you want rusting to be prevented. I find just two drops of the oil sufficient to deal with metal rust.

To sneak penetrating oil into tiny or confined spaces, you need a narrow-mouthed bottle with droppers or spouts. Pouring into the holes increases the risk of spilling. Suppose any given object is loaded corrosion and is frozen or seized, Kano Kroil penetrating oil will deal with it.

This penetrating oil is far better than the other varieties in the market. Every household should have this amazing stuff to get rid of corrosion or rust at any time.

2. Blaster 16-PB Penetrating Catalyst

The PB Blaster busts loose frozen or rusted parts caused by corrosion and rust in minutes. It contains a non-evaporating lubricant, which saves time and also protects against further corrosion and rust. The spray works on rusted nuts and bolts. Spray PB on the required part and let it sit for a while.

This concentrated penetrant creeps up, spreads, and surrounds into hard-to-reach spaces, allowing parts to escape surface tension of corrosion and rust. The spray offers hardworking, top-quality formula which leaves behind a lubricating film to prevent further rusting.

The penetrating catalyst can be sprayed as a mist. It is so fine that it will find even the smallest openings in between metal parts penetrating them within a short time. It seeps into almost invisible crevices loosening metal connections that appeared rusted solid over time.

Lots of fumes when the product is used. Consider using it in open space or leave any openings wide open to ensure air circulation.

How Should Blaster 16-PB Penetrating Catalyst Be Used?

After spraying PB Blaster on fused parts, give it several hours or even the entire night to sit for the penetrating oil to seep in. You can then use your wrenches to loosen the parts a little bit. If they will not budge, try a second heavy dose of the oil and let it sit for a while.

I consider using heat on very stubborn parts to make them loose. For instance, a stuck nut warmed using a heat gun will automatically expand enough to enable your wrench to turn it.

Remember not to apply direct flame to parts still wet with oil as the oil will evaporate rather quickly. There is also a possibility of igniting the oil as it is petroleum-based.

What Are The Uses Of Blaster 16 PB-Penetrating Oil?

PB Blaster can be used on automotive, plumbing, marine, industrial, and other equipment. You may need to apply it 1-3 times depending on the stuckness of the stripped bolt or rusted nut. I find it best to apply 6-12 hours apart from each application to effectively soak in at the molecular level.

The penetrating catalyst is useful, especially when you have rusted or corroded nuts or bolts that will not budge. It does a good job on any rusted projects.

The spraying can run out of pressure before the can is emptied. About half of the product is wasted. Therefore, use it well on required parts to save on money.

3. WD-40 Multi-Use Product with Smart Straw

The WD-4O is a multi-use product that penetrates stuck places, protects metal from corrosion and rust, displaces moisture, and lubricates anything. It is a water-based aerosol with a unique bio-solvent proven to be more powerful and easy to use degreaser in the market.

It breaks quickly through tough grime and grease and it is the best when it comes to cleaning tools, shop floors, greasy automotive parts, commercial appliances, and many more. The added corrosion inhibitors present in the product help in protecting against flash rust.

While the WD stands for water displacement, the product is a rare special blend of lubricants. The formulation of the product contains anti-corrosion agents and components for penetration, soil removal, and water displacement.

The aerosol product may be difficult to be sprayed out before the can is entirely empty.

What Are the Functions of WD-40 Multi-Use Product with Smart Straw?

• Protects: The product has corrosion-resistant ingredients that shield against corrosive elements and moisture. You can use it on any metal surface for long-lasting protection.
• Frees sticky mechanism: Use the product to loosen rust-to-metal bonds and free frozen, rusted or stuck metal parts.
• Removes: It can get under grime, grease, and gunk. It dissolves adhesives allowing quick and easy removal of tape, labels, excess bonding material, and stickers.
• Lubricates: The product’s lubricating components are widely dispersed, holding firmly to all the moving parts.
• Drives out moisture: It displaces moisture by drying out electrical systems and eliminates moisture-induced short circuits.

What Surfaces Are Safe For Use With WD-40 Multi-Use Product?

The product is safe on almost anything. You can use it on rubber, most plastics, wood or metal. However, avoid using on clear polystyrene plastic and polycarbonate. You can use it on your bike for preventing rust and mud from sticking or other sports equipment.

The product should be handled with care. It may soften car polishes and other products on contact. This invasive nature means that you should take extra care around unsealed bearings and rubberized synthetics.

4. Gibbs Brand Lubricant

Gibbs Brand is a lubricant with many uses both for domestic and industrial purposes. It is a revolutionary product that works at any temperature not only to eliminate corrosion but also to clean, waterproof, and lubricate mechanical hardware.

It is safe to use on rubber, wood, metal, and plastic. It is highly acclaimed in the weapon industry as it is complete gun care. Gibbs brand improves firearm action and preserves pieces regardless of it being in or out of use.

The product is pricey. High pressure makes the product run over outside the can, making a general mess.

What are the Major Uses of Gibbs Brand Lubricant?

• Rust removal

The product not only protects metals from oxidizing but actually reverses the effects of the oxidation process when applied to rusty surfaces. Spray Gibbs brand over rusted areas and then use a towel or paper to wipe gently into a uniform coat.

I consider spraying a heavier coat on badly rusted surfaces and let it sit overnight. A couple of days should do before I completely wipe down the lubricant.

• Surface conditioner

If correctly applied on bare metal, a light coat of the product will minimize any possibility of oxidation. Over a given duration, the more times you apply it, the more effective Gibbs Brand will be.

• Penetrating oil

Put a number of drops of the product to the exact area where it is required. You will see that it begins to work immediately. In cases where parts or fasteners are completely frozen, apply the first drops followed by another couple of drops a day later.

Other uses include protecting and cleaning brake parts and master cylinders, lubricating and waterproofing latches, hinges and locks, and computer hard drive bearings.

It may also be used for preventing electrical connections from oxidation, cleaning and protecting saw blades, a starter fluid for mowers, weed wacker, snow-blowers, and so on.

What is the best way to apply Gibbs brand lubricant?

The product is easy to use. I normally start with a clean surface and spray a small amount of it in a few streaks across the area I am working on. Then, a clean towel should do to wipe the product across the entire surface.

I then use another clean towel to wipe off any excess. When you are using the Gibbs brand, remember to always wipe gently with light pressure leaving it where it is exactly needed.

5. 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil

As the name implies, 3-In-One Multi-Purpose Oil can be used for various applications. This includes: loosening frozen parts, reducing friction, and getting rid of rusty joints. You can also use it to grease, remove gum, and to silent components that make squeaky noises.

The product has the capacity of loosening parts that have been stuck together for a long time. It seeps into crevices and frees stuck parts in minutes. For cleaning functions, this oil is very useful as it removes grime and dirt effortlessly.

The oil works as a lubricant and does not have any foul smell. It can be used at home on hinges, door locks, sliding doors, fans, sewing machines, window tracks, anything with wheels, and so on.

On automobiles, it can be used on windshield wipers, throttle cables, antennas, linkages, hinges, cleaning or rust prevention, and anything requiring precision lubrication.

In your garage you can use it for lubricating and protecting tools from rust, helping saw blades to cut better, keeping drills work smoothly, and so on.

In the office, it can be used on swivel chairs, scissors, door hinges, file drawers, and more.

For sports and recreation consider using the product on boating hardware, skateboards, and skates, on bike chains, and tackle.

When stored in uncontrolled temperature surrounding, the bottle may warm up forcing oil out of the bottle as the temperature goes up. This may eventually empty the entire bottle.

How Can You Effectively Use 3-In-One Multi-Purpose Oil?

The bottle is uniquely designed to give you absolute control during application to avoid spills. The squeeze bottle and drip application are part of the unique design of the bottle.

It has a drip applicator with a cap attached. This ensures you apply the desired amount easily. The bottle has a fill level indicator strip to show you when you are running low.

The product dries quickly leaving no messy residue and also minimize dust accumulation.

Is 3-In-One Oil Suitable for Rowing Machine Chain?

The 3-In-One Multi-Purpose Oil comes highly recommended for rowing machine chains. Just make sure you do not use too much of the oil.

How is 3-In-One Oil Different from WD-40?

The 3-In-One penetrating oil has two distinctive spout options that allow you to lubricate parts without splatter or overspray. On the other hand, WD-40 penetrates to loosen, degrease, and clean stuck parts, so as to prevent corrosion.

6. Kano Aerokroil Penetrating Oil

The Kano Aerokroil is the aerosol form of Kroil which loosens frozen metal parts and threads just in minutes. A scientific principle decreases the surface tension for this solvent to creep into openings small as a millionth of an inch.

The product also dissolves gum, oil, dried grease and frees frozen shafts and pulleys without attacking the metal. It displaces water, prevents rust, and provides lubrication. Aerokroil creeps below the fouling in barrels, enabling you to knock it out easily with a brush.

The product is durably lubricated. It prevents further rusting by lubricating metal parts worked on. It works best for getting underneath and loosening carbon buildup, lead, and copper fouling in firearms.

The product is the best solution for lubing, cleaning, loosening exhaust bolts, rust removal, drain-and-fill plugs. To get the best results, I normally spray on the required surface, leave it to penetrate for a while before wiping away.

The penetrating oil is a bit expensive especially when you are operating on a limited budget.

What is the mechanism behind Kano Aerokroil penetrating oil?

Since not all frozen parts are a result of corrosion, molecular properties in the oil ensure that the final molecular architecture of the product is capable of loosening any frozen metal parts.

This property enables Aerokroil to break bonds of rust and even loosen over torqued parts to free stuck metal joints.

Kano Aerokroil is packed in an aerosol can for direct application. This makes it easy to access even the furthest parts. Any of the mechanical parts which are stuck together will be freed. This leaves no further reaction between the metal and solvent.

The oil has a fairly distinct smell and evaporates quickly. You should be swift with your hands to minimize wastage. It should be used in open places and if this is not possible, ensure you open all windows to let air in.

Can Aerokroil be used on a frozen water valve?

Yes, it can be used. I recently used Aerokroil on garden hoses. I sprayed them with enough Aerokroil and let them soak for 15 minutes. Thereafter, I was able to unscrew them easily.

7. Liquid Wrench L106 Penetrating Oil

Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil has been used for a very long time to loosen stuck components. It is among the most trusted oil as it is tough and excellent penetrant in the market. The oil is fast-acting to quickly dissolve rust and cuts through grease.

It has high levels of solvency and lubricity and very low viscosity. The oil also has low surface tension. With such properties, it can flow into threads and very tiny spaces as well as cutting through tough rust.

The products used in liquid wrench l106 penetrating oil are designed for common use temperatures even below 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

The oil is yellow in color and is composed of hydrocarbon fluid, carbon dioxide, TMP Tri-oliate polyol Ester. It is safe on plastic, PVC, painted surfaces, and metals. However, you should avoid spraying on wood, cloth, and any other material prone to staining.

It has a non-pleasant smell. Windows should be opened before you start spraying.

What is the easiest way to use Liquid Wrench L106 Penetrating Oil?

I start with brushing the surface I am working with a wire brush to remove as much rust as possible. This makes it easier for the oil to penetrate all nooks and crannies. I then heat the surface with a lighter to expand the metal and loosen more rust.

I prefer spraying the oil generously on the surface to be worked on and allow it to soak for quite some time. For smaller spaces, I use a convenient applicator for a more precise spray to avoid spilling. After allowing it to sit for a while, I wipe the surface for a new shiny look.

Will Liquid Wrench L106 oil harm the paint of my car?

The Liquid Wrench penetrating oil will not damage the standard OEM car paint finish. However, the oil could harm aged OEM paints or aftermarket paint finishes.

8. Royal Purple 05000 Maxfilm Synthetic Penetrating Oil

The oil is a strong synthetic lubricant that is versatile and may be used for many purposes. It deeply penetrates, cleans, and loosens stuck and rusted parts, providing long-lasting protection against further rust, wear, and corrosion.

Prevents binding and loosens stuck parts like nuts and bolts, hinges, and locks. Lubricating open gears, power tools, fishing tackle, lawn equipment, chains guns, and rollers.

It contains synerlec technology hence preserves parts in storage against corrosion and rust. It is used as a cutting fluid for facilitating ease of hand drilling, tapping, and metal cutting of aluminum, steel, and other metals.

When the oil is applied, its solvent carrier evaporates leaving a tenacious, thixotropic film on metal surfaces, providing protection against rust, wear, and corrosion. Maxfilm has a carbon dioxide propellant that is proven to make equipment run quieter and smoother.

What is the best way to use Royal Purple Oil?

On the working surface, be it hinges, nuts, bolts, or other equipment, I make sure to brush it with a wire brush to reduce the level of corrosion. This also increases the penetrating ability of the fluid. I then spray a thin film of the product and let it sit for a while.

For the extremely damaged surfaces that have stayed for a long while in the garage, I spray another film after wiping the first layer. The resulting dry film will not collect dust or dirt. It also avoids gelling or gumming which may happen with other mineral-based products.

Does the Royal Purple 05000 Penetrating Spray Contain Silicone?

It does not contain silicone. According to the product’s label, it contains corrosion inhibitors, paraffin, Co2, and petroleum distillate.

9. Gasoila Free All Rust Eater Deep Penetrating Oil

Tough and trusted, Gasoila Free All Rust Eater is a fast-acting formula that quickly and effectively penetrates and dissolves rust.

It contains a strong rust-eating agent, which has proven to be very efficient at freeing up automotive clamps, frozen nuts, rusted bolts, and rusted machine screws among others.

This formula has its own lubricating film, which is great because it does not evaporate in order to ensure that it smoothly delivers the rust eater until the job is done.

I really appreciate its fast-acting nature, considering how quickly it released my super tight rear bumper bolts without striping them in any way.

Have you ever had your locks preventing you from getting to your plates? My right side lock jammed and not even a power tool could remove it, but the Rust Eater did.

The only thing that I didn’t like about this product was the missing straw or tube, which is very important for proper application. Had to come up with one on my own.

Best Penetrating Oil Comparisons

You should only spend more money if you are getting more value. With that said, I conducted a number of comparison tests to find out which one is the best penetrating oil for a given task. Here are the findings.

Silikroil vs. Kroil

Silikroil is an additional formulation of Kroil that provides some of the same benefits. Silikroil combines penetrating oil with dimethyl silicones. A Silikroil surface will repel moisture or water; thereby, avoiding corrosion.

Kroil is a high-performing penetrating oil. Its unique patented molecular architecture develops an attraction to metal that warrants swift penetration. It also maintains a molecular design that has the ability to break bonds, usually at the first molecular level.

Generally, Silikroil is a formulation of Kroil. The only major difference is that the composition of Kroil does not include silicones.

PB Blaster vs. WD-40

WD-40 is credited with numerous uses as a lubricant and penetrating oil. However, is this really the case? I conducted a comparison test between WD-40 and PB Blaster to determine which one is best.

These two oils are things that you can get from the local hardware stores. To begin with, you all know the WD-40, which comes with a built-in straw. The PB Blaster; on the other hand, comes with a straw attached on the side.

In the test, I aimed to do a detailed grease and penetrate. The first thing I did was a spray test on a vertical blackboard. I sprayed the WD-40 on one side and the PB Blaster on the other with the straw attached to each can.

The WD-40 sprayed a light whitish fluid that is less viscous and flows quickly. On the other hand, the PB Blaster sprayed a thick whitish fluid with a high viscosity. As far as the spray test is concerned, the Blaster was way thicker than the WD-40.

The next test I conducted was a penetrating test. To do this, I sprayed WD-40 on one side of my vise bolt and the PB Blaster on the other side. The WD-40 penetration was remarkable compared to the PB Blaster.

Another penetration test involved a thirty-pound weight to see how much of each oil could penetrate underneath the weight. I released a one-second blast at the bottom of each weight. When I lifted the weights, WD-40 is the one that did a lot of penetration. The PB Blaster did very little penetration.

It is clear from the above test that WD-40 is thinner than the PB Blaster. However, it is also clear that the WD-40 offers superior penetration than PB Blaster.

Kroil vs. PB Blaster

These two oils work in an almost similar manner. The only thing that makes the PB Blaster appear inferior when compared to Kroil is the odor. The Blaster has an odor that is relatively problematic to wash off. Kano Kroil is considerably less unforgiving.

Unlike PB Blaster, Kroil has the ability to penetrate tight spaces, breaking rusting, compression, or tainting bonds. Its ability to reduce surface pressure allows it to creep into places effectively. It also warrants no risk of rusting, thanks to its anti-water properties.

I did also put the two oils to test to prove their effectiveness. For this particular test, I decided to use rusted nuts and bolts. I took two test pieces, labeled 1 and 2, and they both had the same level of rusting.

I gushed Kano Kroil on the first piece and the PB Blaster on the second piece. I noticed that the Blaster oil was bubbling around the edges of the nut. I let the oils penetrate overnight. The two pieces looked like they had the same level of penetration on top of the bolts.

The following morning, I used a breaker bar to undo the bolts on each piece. The one soaked with Kroil presented less resistance compared to the one soaked with PB Blaster. I noticed that the lubrication of the Kano Kroil was higher. On the other hand, the PB Blaster appeared less oil-like and dryer.

Kroil vs. WD-40

Both of the two are indeed universal lubricant and penetrating oils for almost anything. However, when comparing Kano Kroil and WD-40 on rusted bolts and nuts, Kroil does a better job. Kano Kroil performs well in rusted machinery, breaking up rusted, frozen, and joint nuts and bolts.

Unlike WD-40, Kano Kroil has the ability to hit any corrosive impediment breaking it down, allowing it to act as a lubricant, releasing rusty nails, nuts, bolts and fast quickly and efficiently. Regardless of WD-40 taking a longer time than Kroil, it lubricates metal surfaces for longer-lasting protection.

To prove that Kano Kroil works better and efficiently, I did a nail climb test. I bought a can of WD-40 and Kano Kroil and used them on rusted nails. I set aside two nails with the same level of rusting. To determine the penetrating ability, the nails would help me evaluate how quickly the fluids will move up.

After timing, I noticed that Kano Kroil traveled up the rusted nail 50% faster than WD-40. Therefore, the penetration and climbing up the ability of Kano Kroil is much higher than WD-40.

PB Blaster vs. Liquid Wrench

To compare the PB Blaster and the Liquid Wrench, I decided to do a front and rear brake job. This job involved removing the calipers completely because I was going to paint them.

I sprayed the PB Blaster on the driver’s side. On the passenger side, I used the Liquid Wrench. The calipers soaked with PB Blaster broke faster compared to the ones soaked with Liquid Wrench.

Liquid Wrench vs. WD 40

I usually use the WD-40 for milling aluminum, drilling, and cutting. I decided to test its performance in comparison with the Liquid Wrench.

As far as the initial test is concerned, the Liquid Wrench seems like the real deal. However, it is darker in appearance and smells a bit different when compared to WD 40.

As much as freeing rusted nuts and bolts is concerned, I chose to go with Liquid Wrench and not WD 40. This is so since the Liquid Wrench presents superior penetration. Nonetheless, I would recommend the WD 40 for cutting fluid.

3-In-One vs. WD 40

Both penetrating oils are made as well as distributed by WD 40. Most of you would say that the two oils are exactly the same, but WD 40 is highly-priced.

I would not say for sure that they are completely similar, but the WD 40 performs better as far as loosening gum on parts is concerned.

For more effective comparison, I used both oils to clean an old steel bar. The best penetrating oil between the two as far as cleaning the bar is concerned was the 3 in 1.

Based on the findings, I would recommend the 3 in 1 for lubricating, cleaning, and reducing friction. I would recommend the WD 40 for freeing the sticky mechanism, loosening rusted parts, driving out moisture, and cleaning.

Penetrating Oils FAQ

These are the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) by people who intend to know more about specific Penetrating Oils for them to purchase the best penetrating oils on the market today. Most of the questions are answered in the article, but here is a highlight of a few questions and their answers.

What is the Difference between a Lubricating and Penetrating oil?

Penetrating oils are effective at freeing stuck locks, bolts, and nuts that normally contain corrosion and rust. On the other hand, lubricating oils are effective at protecting and preventing parts from getting stuck.

Is Penetrating Oil Flammable?

A great number of penetrating oils have very low flash points that cause a high flammability rating. One of the oils that is known to have a higher flash point and are practically non-flammable is Lawson non-flammable oil. This oil has quick penetration compared to the competition.

Which Penetrating Oil is Suitable for Cleaning a Barrel?

I choose Kano Kroil as the best penetrating oil for cleaning a barrel. The moment I have finished shooting, I wet the barrel with Kano Kroil and leave it for a few days. I let the barrel lie horizontally and turn the rifle over onto the other side twice a day.

It has happened that after I had done this to a barrel and pushed a patch through a few days later, long threads of copper came out of the muzzle. Therefore, it is important to clean a barrel before shooting with it again.

What Does WD-40 Stand For?

WD-40 refers to Water Displacement, the 40th formula. WD-40 is the 40th attempt to make a Water Displacement chemical and is very useful for lots of jobs. This penetrating oil has five basic properties: penetrates, cleans, lubricates, displaces moisture, and protects.

Will Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil Prevent Rust?

Yes, it will. The Liquid Wrench will prevent parts made of metal from rusting, thanks to its corrosion and rust inhibiting properties.

What Are the Formulations of Kano Kroil?

The Kano labs have two additional formulations of Kroil available that provide some of the same benefits. One is Silikroil, which combines dimethyl silicones and penetrating oil. The other is Penephite, a combination of penetrating oil and graphite.

What is the Best Penetrating Oil for Seized Engine?

WD-40 is one of the oldest remedies for lots of frozen parts, but there are other better solutions. Kano Kroil penetrating oil is about the best there is in the market. Usually, when I use Kano Kroil, it frees up my seized engine in a duration of 1 to 24 hours.

Is Penetrating Oil Harmful to Plastic?

In most situations, penetrating oils will not damage or harm plastic materials. However, there is a certain form of plastic that might get dissolved or damaged. The best thing to do is avoid the usage of penetrants on polyurethane.

What Does “Rust Eater” Mean on the Product Label?

The phrase isn’t just promotional, but a guarantee of how effective this formula is at penetrating and dissolving rust.

Can I Use This Formula on Electronics?

Electronics are sensitive equipment. So, it will be a very bad idea to use this formula. It might eat away everything. But you can use an electronic contact cleaner spray.

Can It Remove Rusted Screws Off a Plastic Shower Faucet?

It may or may not. Plastic has a tendency of deforming when screws rust. An attempt to use this formula may cause the screws to break.

In Conclusion

There are many penetrating oil brands in the market, and choosing the right model may be challenging for some people. However, this does not have to be a difficult proposition.

I cannot say for sure which one will be the best penetrating oil for your application. This is so since each and every one of these penetrants acts differently on different jobs.

To help you choose the best product, I have selected and reviewed the best penetrants on today’s market. They are all high-performing choices, considering the quality and price.

Personally, I would recommend the Kano Kroil for most applications. In a number of comparison performance tests, Kroil prevailed against all others.

But this should not limit your choices. Other tests I conducted revealed the highlights and drawbacks of the other reviewed penetrants. So, there is one that will definitely work for you.

Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API