I also have been using Ballistol for years as a Cleaner and to oil them up to prevent rusting ! I even use it on old leather cases to clean them ! The smell of it bothers me to the point that I wear a respirator and use it outside ! Never had any issues with it harming the bluing or finish !!

I ve never tried this stuff always used wd 40 all my guns are rust free and wood looks good too...charlie

The smell also bothers me, but its an involuntary reaction. Ive read that the effect isnt felt universally but its hard to imagine breathing that and not choking and wheezing.
It is possible the barrels i noticed the black on the rag were cold blued as well, I will stop worrying about it

That would have them cured just right for a pate! 🤣😂

Preserve, smells good and works good on all gun parts for me Gary

G 96 is better. and no bad smell. does not gum up like ED 40 . Does not harm wood finish,

After reading this post i pulled out my can and used it on a Winchester 97. What a great metal cleaner.

I will stick with Clenzoil.

I honestly think all modern multipurpose cleaners are good these days. I will admit I'm a solution junkie, I have more than I'll ever use. The ones, maybe in order, that get used are

Ballistol
Napier
Clenzoil
G96
Tetra

I don't use WD40 but have been known to use Mobil 1 for lubrication on hinge pins and all my 1911's : )