Some things just work…and they work so well they stand the test of time and become a sort of icon. Okay, so Ballistol isn’t really an icon for most people, but it HAS stood the test of over a hundred years and is arguably the best all-around lubricant/protectant available.Ballistol (“Ballistic” “Oil”) was invented by a German chemist at the turn of the 20th century for the German army to clean, lube, and protect mechanical/metal parts, woods, and leather. That’s one of its great strengths: You can use it on darn near anything (except suede) and it will lube and protect it. Yep, wood, leather, metal, even most plastic. And as a huge bonus, its biodegradable, non-toxic to the environment, and safe to the touch. Pretty much, as long as you don’t drink it or pour it in your eyeball you’re good to go.I could previously say I used Ballistol mainly to clean and lube firearms (which it works fantastic for, by the way), but having experience with it for a long while now, I use it all the time on almost everything. I’m constantly finding great uses for it — uses that make positive practical impact on whatever I’m using it on. The stuff is just great.Just a quick sidenote on using Ballistol on firearms: You don’t really need ANYTHING else…I mean nada. It cleans, lubricates, and protects, all in one pop. You can chuck the variety of solvents and lubes and get the task done faster and better with Ballistol.Also, I recommend getting the non-aerosolized version because you can simply get a common spray bottle trigger head from anywhere and then you have the option of spray or pour.Like I said, some things just work, period, and Ballistol has become a staple product around my home. I absolutely recommend it.Edit: Several people have asked about the smell. That’s not exactly a trick question but requires a brief explanation. The compound itself is pungent, no doubt about it. Whether it “stinks” or not depends a lot on personal opinion, but its definitely a strong smell that lingers in the room if you use lots of it (for example, soaking components and heavy cleaning/lube of firearms that need extra heavy duty attention). BUT…in terms of regular cleaning and normal maintenance and use, the smell is not an issue and fades completely within a couple of hours or so. The bottom line: the smell will not impede your use of Ballsitol and poses no issues significant enough to affect your decision to use it or not use it. [...]