Loose screws and shifting mounts can compromise the reliability and safety of your firearms. Whether you’re maintaining a hunting rifle, securing a scope, or just want peace of mind at the range, choosing the right threadlocker is essential to prevent vibration-related loosening and protect against rust or corrosion.
This guide reviews the best Loctite and threadlocker products specifically suited for gun owners and firearm maintenance. We’ll help you understand the differences between removable, permanent, and specialty formulas so you can confidently select the right solution for your needs.
Top 10 Best Loctite For Guns
After reviewing and comparing the most popular Loctite For Guns options, we identified the products that offer the best balance of quality, performance, and value.
1. Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 Medium Strength
Threaded fasteners on firearms are prone to loosening from repeated recoil and vibration, which can affect accuracy and safety. Using a reliable threadlocker like this helps keep screws and mounts secure without permanent bonding.
Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 is a trusted choice for most gun maintenance tasks, offering medium strength that holds tight but allows for future disassembly with standard hand tools. It's ideal for users who want dependable retention but may need to adjust or remove parts later.
- Medium-strength formula: Secures 6–19mm fasteners, suitable for most gun screws and mounts
- Quick setting: Begins to set in 10 minutes, fully cures in 24 hours for fast turnaround
- Corrosion protection: Shields threads from rust and corrosion, reducing long-term maintenance
Compared to permanent threadlockers, Blue 242 prioritizes removability and ease of use, making it a practical default for most firearm applications. The tradeoff is that it’s not suitable for situations requiring a permanent bond.
- Removable with hand tools
- Protects against rust and corrosion
- Quick and easy application
- Works on most gun fasteners
- No need for special washers
- Not for permanent locking
- Not oil-tolerant
2. ESKONKE Thread Locker Blue 243 Removable
Firearms, like many mechanical devices, face vibration and environmental stress that can loosen screws and mounts. A versatile threadlocker ensures secure fastening across a wide range of gun-related and household uses.
ESKONKE Thread Locker Blue 243 stands out for its adaptability, working on all metal screws below M32 and suitable for guns, vehicles, and household equipment. It’s a strong pick for those who want a single product for multiple applications, including firearm maintenance.
- Wide compatibility: Effective on all metal screws below M32, covering most firearm and accessory needs
- Anaerobic solidification: Provides tight sealing to prevent rust, leakage, and corrosion
- Precision nozzle: Allows for controlled, mess-free application on small gun parts
Unlike some threadlockers that are limited to specific fastener sizes or types, ESKONKE 243 offers broad utility. The main tradeoff is that it may not be as specialized as gun-specific formulas for certain precision tasks.
- Works on various screw sizes
- Prevents rust and leakage
- Easy, precise application
- Suitable for guns and other gear
- Removable after curing
- Not a gun-specific formula
- No oil-tolerance feature
3. Uncle Mike's Gun-Tite Glue Resealable Tube
Firearm accessories like scope mounts and sling swivels are especially prone to loosening, which can affect accuracy and handling. A purpose-designed adhesive helps keep these components tight.
Uncle Mike's Gun-Tite Glue is tailored for gun owners, offering a resealable tube for repeated use and easy removal when adjustments are needed. It’s best for those focused on securing mounts, bases, and worn screws without permanent bonding.
- Resealable 6ml tube: Convenient for multiple small applications and storage
- Removable formula: Allows for future adjustments or part replacements
- Anchors mounts and swivels: Designed for firearm-specific fasteners and accessories
Compared to general-purpose threadlockers, Gun-Tite is optimized for gun hardware and frequent adjustments. The tradeoff is a smaller tube size, which may not suit high-volume users.
- Designed for gun hardware
- Easy to remove
- Handy resealable tube
- Good for worn screws
- Anchors scope mounts
- Small tube size
- Not for permanent fixes
4. Loctite 243 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker
Oil and residue are common on firearm threads, which can interfere with standard threadlockers and reduce effectiveness. An oil-tolerant formula ensures reliable bonding even without perfect cleaning.
Loctite 243 Blue Threadlocker is engineered to cure on as-received fasteners, making it a great choice for gun owners who want dependable results without extensive prep. It’s ideal for those who maintain firearms in real-world conditions.
- Oil-tolerant curing: Bonds securely even on oily or uncleaned threads
- Medium strength: Suitable for most firearm screws and mounts, removable with hand tools
- 50ml size: Offers ample supply for frequent maintenance
While standard threadlockers may fail on oily surfaces, Loctite 243 maintains grip. The tradeoff is a slightly higher price and less specialization for very small screws.
- Works on oily threads
- Medium strength hold
- Large bottle size
- Removable with tools
- No need for extensive cleaning
- Not for very small screws
- Not a gun-specific product
5. Loctite Threadlocker Red 271 Permanent High Strength
Some firearm components, such as barrel nuts or heavy-duty mounts, require a permanent bond to prevent loosening under extreme vibration or stress. A high-strength threadlocker ensures these parts stay put.
Loctite Red 271 is designed for permanent locking of large fasteners and is only removable with heat. It’s best for users who want a set-and-forget solution for critical, non-adjustable parts.
- Permanent formula: Only removable by heating to 500°F, ideal for parts that should not loosen
- Heavy-duty use: Secures fasteners up to 1 inch (25mm) in diameter
- Moisture-resistant: Protects against rust and corrosion in harsh environments
Compared to medium-strength options, Red 271 prioritizes long-term security over adjustability. The tradeoff is that disassembly requires special tools and heat.
- Permanent locking
- Ideal for large fasteners
- Moisture and rust resistant
- Prevents tampering
- Quick setting
- Requires heat for removal
- Not for parts needing adjustment
6. Loctite 37643 Blue Threadlocker Stick 9g
Applying threadlocker in tight or overhead spaces can be messy with liquids. A stick applicator offers a cleaner, more controlled solution for firearm screws and mounts.
Loctite 37643 Blue Threadlocker Stick delivers medium-strength bonding in a wax-like stick, making it easy to apply in any orientation. It’s ideal for users who want minimal mess and precise placement, especially during complex gun assembly.
- Stick format: Allows for clean, controlled application even overhead
- Medium strength: Suitable for most gun fasteners, removable with tools
- Self-feeding applicator: Convenient for quick, repeat use
Compared to liquid threadlockers, the stick format prioritizes ease of use and cleanliness. The tradeoff is a smaller volume and possible limitations for very small threads.
- Mess-free application
- Great for overhead use
- Medium strength hold
- Reusable stick format
- No liquid spills
- Limited quantity
- Not ideal for tiny screws
7. Loctite 242 Threadlocker High-Temp Medium Strength
Firearms exposed to high heat, such as those used in rapid firing or harsh environments, need a threadlocker that maintains hold under temperature extremes. High-temp formulas prevent loosening when standard products might fail.
Loctite 242 Threadlocker is trusted by professionals for its high-temperature tolerance and compatibility with all metals, making it a solid choice for gun owners who demand reliability in demanding conditions.
- High-temp resistance: Maintains bond in elevated temperatures, suitable for heated gun parts
- Works on all metals: Compatible with stainless, aluminum, and plated surfaces
- Quick setting: Begins to set in 5 minutes, fully cures in 24 hours
Compared to standard threadlockers, this formula prioritizes temperature stability. The tradeoff is that it may be more than needed for casual or low-heat firearm use.
- Handles high temperatures
- Works on all metals
- Quick initial set
- Trusted by professionals
- Removable with tools
- Overkill for light use
- Not oil-tolerant
8. Loctite 38653 222 Purple Low Strength Thread Locker
Tiny screws on firearms, such as those on optics or trigger assemblies, require a low-strength threadlocker to prevent stripping and allow for future adjustments. Using the wrong strength can make removal difficult or damage threads.
Loctite 222 Purple is formulated for fasteners under 1/4 inch (6mm), offering secure hold with easy removability. It's ideal for gun owners working with delicate or frequently adjusted parts.
- Low-strength formula: Perfect for small screws that need occasional adjustment
- Non-corrosive: Protects threads without damaging sensitive components
- Quick setting: Starts to cure in 20 minutes, fully cures in 24 hours
Compared to medium or high-strength options, Purple 222 prioritizes easy disassembly and thread protection. The tradeoff is that it’s not suitable for high-stress or large fasteners.
- Safe for tiny screws
- Easy to remove
- Non-corrosive formula
- Quick to set
- Ideal for optics
- Not for large fasteners
- Limited holding power
9. GNEOCO Thread Lock Blue Medium Strength
Regular firearm maintenance can require significant amounts of threadlocker, especially for those with multiple guns or frequent projects. A budget-friendly, large-volume option helps keep costs down without sacrificing basic performance.
GNEOCO Thread Lock Blue offers a 50ml bottle of medium-strength formula, suitable for most gun screws and general hardware. It’s a practical pick for users who value quantity and affordability over specialized features.
- 50ml bottle: Provides ample supply for high-volume use
- Medium strength: Secures most firearm fasteners, removable if needed
- Rust and water resistant: Protects against environmental wear
Compared to premium brands, GNEOCO prioritizes value and quantity. The tradeoff is less brand recognition and fewer specialty features.
- Large bottle size
- Affordable price
- Medium strength hold
- Rust and water resistant
- Suitable for general use
- Fewer specialty features
- Not oil-tolerant
9. GNEOCO Thread Lock Blue Medium Strength
Regular firearm maintenance can require significant amounts of threadlocker, especially for those with multiple guns or frequent projects. A budget-friendly, large-volume option helps keep costs down without sacrificing basic performance.
GNEOCO Thread Lock Blue offers a 50ml bottle of medium-strength formula, suitable for most gun screws and general hardware. It’s a practical pick for users who value quantity and affordability over specialized features.
- 50ml bottle: Provides ample supply for high-volume use
- Medium strength: Secures most firearm fasteners, removable if needed
- Rust and water resistant: Protects against environmental wear
Compared to premium brands, GNEOCO prioritizes value and quantity. The tradeoff is less brand recognition and fewer specialty features.
- Large bottle size
- Affordable price
- Medium strength hold
- Rust and water resistant
- Suitable for general use
- Fewer specialty features
- Not oil-tolerant
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Threadlocker for Guns
Threadlockers are essential for firearm maintenance, but choosing the right type can be confusing. The technical differences between formulas, strengths, and application methods can impact both performance and ease of future adjustments. Many buyers mistakenly assume all threadlockers are the same or overlook the importance of removability and compatibility with gun parts.
- Removable vs. Permanent: Removable (medium/low strength) threadlockers allow for future disassembly, while permanent (high strength) options require heat and special tools to remove
- Strength Levels: Low strength is best for small screws and optics, medium strength for general gun fasteners, and high strength for heavy-duty or non-adjustable parts
- Application Formats: Liquid, stick, and gel threadlockers each offer different advantages for mess-free or precise application
- Oil and Surface Tolerance: Some formulas cure reliably even on oily or uncleaned threads, which is useful for field repairs
- Tube Size and Value: Larger bottles are more cost-effective for frequent users, while small tubes are convenient for occasional maintenance
- Common Misunderstandings: Many assume stronger is always better, but over-tightening can damage threads or make future adjustments difficult
Choosing the Right Strength for Your Gun Parts
Selecting the appropriate threadlocker strength is crucial. Low-strength formulas like Loctite 222 Purple are ideal for small screws on optics or trigger assemblies, as they prevent stripping and allow for easy removal. Medium-strength options such as Loctite Blue 242 or ESKONKE 243 are suitable for most gun fasteners, balancing security with the ability to disassemble with hand tools. Permanent, high-strength threadlockers like Loctite Red 271 should only be used on parts that rarely need adjustment, such as barrel nuts or heavy-duty mounts.
Application Formats: Liquid vs. Stick
Threadlockers come in liquid and stick forms. Liquids are versatile and easy to apply to most threads, but can be messy in tight or overhead spaces. Stick applicators, like Loctite 37643, provide a cleaner, more controlled application, especially when working on complex assemblies or in awkward positions.
Oil and Surface Tolerance for Real-World Conditions
Not all gun maintenance happens in a perfectly clean environment. Oil-tolerant and surface-insensitive formulas, such as Loctite 243, ensure effective bonding even when threads aren’t spotless. This is especially valuable for field repairs or when cleaning isn’t practical.
Value and Tube Size Considerations
Frequent gun owners or those maintaining multiple firearms may benefit from larger bottles, like GNEOCO Thread Lock Blue, which offer more applications at a lower cost per use. Occasional users may prefer smaller, resealable tubes for convenience and freshness.
Final Buying Advice
Choosing the right threadlocker for your firearms comes down to matching strength, application method, and value to your specific needs. Avoid the temptation to use the strongest formula by default—consider how often you’ll need to adjust or remove parts.
- Match strength to screw size and importance—use low or medium strength for most gun parts
- Choose application format for your workspace—sticks for mess-free jobs, liquids for versatility
- Consider oil/surface tolerance if you often work in less-than-ideal conditions
- Don’t overbuy—pick tube size based on your maintenance frequency
- Read product labels carefully to avoid damaging threads or making future adjustments difficult
FAQ For Loctite For Guns
1. What strength threadlocker should I use for gun screws?
2. Can I remove screws after applying threadlocker?
3. Is oil-tolerant threadlocker necessary for firearms?
4. Are stick threadlockers as effective as liquid ones?
5. Will threadlocker damage my gun or threads?
6. How long does threadlocker take to cure?
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