If you’ve spent any amount of time on the cleaning bench, you know how frustrating it can be to scrub away layers of stubborn carbon, copper, and lead buildup. Traditional cleaning solvents can feel like they’re fighting against you, leaving you wondering if a better option exists. Enter Modern Spartan Systems (MSS)—a company that has redefined the chemistry of gun cleaning and maintenance. Their starter kit is an all-in-one solution designed to make firearm cleaning faster, more effective, and with real performance gains to boot.

Modern Spartan Systems Claims

But does Modern Spartan Systems live up to its bold claims? After three years of personal experience with these products, I can confidently say: Yes, it does—it’s not snake oil, hear me out.

Modern Spartan Systems doesn’t just market gun-cleaning chemicals—they’ve developed specialized chemistry to tackle specific firearm maintenance challenges with precision. Their product lineup doesn’t stop at simple cleaning; it’s engineered to boost performance. Let’s take a closer look at what makes MSS stand out:

• Specialized Formulas: Each product is fine-tuned for its specific task. For example, Carbon Destroyer doesn’t just soften carbon deposits—it outright removes even the most stubborn, burnt-on residue. Similarly, Copper/Lead Destroyer handles bore fouling with efficiency.
• Performance Boosts: MSS takes things further with Accuracy Oil, a lubricant that not only reduces wear and heat but can actually enhance your firearm’s accuracy and extend barrel life.
• Water-Soluble Solvents: Unlike many traditional oil-based cleaners, MSS products are water-soluble, making cleanup easier and safer for many surfaces.

These aren’t just buzzwords. In my own testing, these claims proved to be entirely true. The chemistry behind MSS products works differently from the solvents your granddad used—and once you experience it, you won’t want to go back.

Starter Kit

The Modern Spartan Systems Starter Kit is their most popular option and it’s the place to start. Kit includes five key products, each tailored to a specific firearm maintenance task:

1. Carbon Destroyer: Burnt carbon is one of the hardest residues to remove, especially from muzzle devices or gas systems. Carbon Destroyer attacks these deposits head-on, leaving stainless / steel components looking like new. It’s fast-acting, efficient, and eliminates the need for endless scrubbing.

2. Copper/Lead Destroyer: For shooters dealing with heavy bore fouling, this solvent is a game-changer. Whether you’re shooting lead-cast rounds or copper-jacketed bullets, Copper/Lead Destroyer removes the buildup that degrades accuracy and velocity over time.

3. Accuracy Oil: This is the under-appreciated gem of the MSS lineup. Not only is it a top-tier lubricant for mechanical parts, but it also functions as a bore treatment to reduce heat, improve accuracy, and extend barrel life.

4. Accuracy Grease: Designed for moving parts under stress, Accuracy Grease has the ideal consistency for locking mechanisms, bolts, and other high-friction components. Unlike standard gun greases, it stays put without gumming up over time.

5. Optics Cleaner: Stained or dirty optics can ruin a good shooting string on the range or in the field. MSS’s optics cleaner cuts through grime without leaving streaks, making it an essential addition to your cleaning routine. Spray on, then use a lint free cloth or microfiber rag to wipe the lens down.

Can Lubricant Enhance Accuracy?

I was first introduced to MSS by its owner, Marcus Kahn, who challenged me to test the claims of his products. I told him that I was suspicious and said that it sounded like “snake oil”… I was skeptical. Could a lubricant really enhance accuracy? Could a solvent make cleaning easier and more effective? I soon found out that the answer to both was a resounding “yes.”

Testing Modern Spartan Systems

Following MSS’s recommended barrel treatment process, I tested Accuracy Oil with a Browning X-Bolt Max Range in 6.5 Creedmoor. My baseline group measured ~2.5 inches at 200 yards. After an initial bore cleaning, I applied Accuracy Oil to a patch and followed the treatment protocol: swab the bore, fire one shot, swab again, fire two shots, swab, fire three, and so on until I completed the five-shot sequence. After letting the barrel cool, I shot another five-round group.

The results were immediate and measurable:

• Group Size Improvement: A 10% reduction in group size.
• Barrel Temperature Reduction: An 8-degree drop in barrel temperature compared to untreated shooting sessions.

These improvements were tangible, noticeable changes that confirmed MSS’s claims about reduced heat and enhanced accuracy. For long-range shooters like myself, these results are invaluable. Anyone operating in the PRS space should absolutely try this system, out––anyone in the competitive handgun space too.   

Learning Curve

While Modern Spartan Systems products are incredibly effective, they do require some understanding to use correctly. Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Understand the Strength of Each Product: These solvents aren’t your typical over-the-counter cleaners—they’re potent. For instance, Copper/Lead Destroyer can damage blued finishes if left too long, so always follow the instructions carefully.
• Experiment with Application Methods: Combining these chemicals with tools like ultrasonic cleaners or using them on different materials requires a bit of trial and error. Once you figure out the best approach, the results are worth the effort.
• Cost vs. Value: At around $60 for the starter kit, MSS isn’t cheap. However, the time and effort saved on cleaning, plus the performance gains, make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.

Big Picture On Modern Spartan Systems

For many shooters, gun cleaning is a chore—something you do begrudgingly after a long day at the range. MSS flips the script by making the process faster and more efficient.

Key Benefits:

1. Less Time Cleaning: MSS solvents reduce scrubbing time, allowing you to spend more time shooting and less time at the bench.
2. Better Performance: From reduced fouling to improved accuracy, these products make a tangible difference in how your firearm performs.
3. Long-Term Savings: By extending the life of your barrel and reducing wear on moving parts, MSS can save you money in the long run.

Modern Spartan Systems has set a new standard in the world of firearm maintenance / performance. Their products don’t just clean—they enhance performance, protect your investment, and make the entire process more efficient.

If you’re tired of wasting time with solvents that only do half the job or lubricants that fail under pressure, give MSS a try. It’s an investment in your firearm’s longevity and performance—and once you experience the difference, you won’t want to go back.