I use Hoppees #9 and a bronze brush regularly. When my 686 starts to build up carbon at the front of the cylinder I use a little flitz. However, hearing that it removes metal maybe I will rethink the Flitz. I have used Flitz successfully to remove scratches and holster marks from my 686. It's great for that. Maybe it's a better polish than a cleaner.

Shooter's choice Aqua Clean is a fantastic carbon solvent. It disolves carbon almost instantly. Because it's water based, you do will have to blow out and relube moving parts if it gets into them.

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Andy