Chad Kelly Tries NANOGUARD!

MDT’s NANOGUARD is a line of industrial-grade firearm care and maintenance products. What’s even more interesting is that NANOGUARD is derived from lubricants used in heavy-duty mining equipment. Cool, right? But how does it perform? That’s what Chad Kelly of the Chad Kelly YouTube channel set out to find out in a recent video.

PERFECT TIMING

A pre-match range session was the ideal opportunity to put MDT’s new NANOGUARD cleaning and lubrication system to the test. With an upcoming precision rifle match on the calendar and limited practice time over the past month, Chad Kelly approached the day with tempered expectations. Chad’s goal was to evaluate whether MDT’s three-step maintenance system could deliver real-world benefits for a rifle that spends most of its life in dusty Oklahoma match conditions. It’s the perfect proving ground.

TESTING NANO GUARD

The Nano Guard lineup consists of a Heavy Duty Cleaner, a CLP-X protectant, and an Ultra Slick Gun Oil. Of the three, Chad was really interested in how the oil performed. After experimenting with lubricants such as Lucas Extreme Grease, Chad ran his bolt completely dry for several months. While grease improved smoothness, it also attracted dust, sand, and debris—an ongoing problem during matches where bolts remain open between stages. Running dry reduced contamination but sacrificed some slickness.

Using the tailgate of his truck as an impromptu workbench while storm clouds rolled in, Chad cleaned the bolt with NANOGUARD’s Heavy Duty Cleaner, noting how effectively it removed brass residue, grime, and old lubricant buildup. The CLP-X followed, bringing a bronze-colored coating that MDT claims bonds to metal surfaces, provides hydrophobic protection, and withstands extreme temperatures. Finally, a light application of the Extra Slick Gun Oil was worked into the bolt lugs and wear points before excess oil was wiped away.

RANGE-DAY RESULTS

Initial impressions were positive. The bolt felt slightly smoother than when run completely dry. But fidgeting with the bolt and shooting are two different things. The real test came on a 500-yard target rack, with impacts recorded on progressively smaller steel plates from 12 inches down to 4 inches. The rifle performed well, delivering consistent hits and reinforcing confidence in both the rifle and ammunition ahead of the upcoming match. Throughout the session, the bolt cycled reliably and smoothly.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Ultimately, Chad likes what he sees. However, shooting in Oklahoma under match pressure will be the true test of NANOGUARD. For now, the experiment continues, with a follow-up report planned after match day. For more videos like this, check out the Chad Kelly YouTube channel.