What's the difference between two lubricants?

[daveman]

Does anyone know the difference between a silicone grease and a teflon based lubricant like "Super Lube?" I used silicone grease for my Inovas X series and am wondering if I should lube my P1 with it too. FR recommends using a teflon based lube for the P1. Do I have to buy two different types of lubes for my lights?

 

[The_virus]

It depends on where the lube goes. Some flashlight threads conduct the current, while others do not. Consequently some lubes are designed to help a current, while others might not be the best for it.

This is where my knowledge of lubricants stops. I don't know the difference between the two you mentioned or which does what.

 

[dyyys1]

Since Surefire says that you can't use lubricant that contains petroleum, will it hurt a flashlight to use a lubricant (teflon or silicone) with petroleum distillates? Are they the same thing? Every teflon or silicone lubricant I've found had petroleum distillates. Thanks.

 

[Anglepoise]

I have used both lubricants on 'O' rings.
This is what I have found.

When threads are turned to switch on and off.......
There is something call 'stiction'.
It happens when an 'O' ring is lubed with silicone in some circumstances.
All is smooth and you put the light away. A week later...you pick it up and its not smooth to turn.

You will only get this when the 'O' rings are a tight fit ( waterproof).

I have NOT experienced 'stiction' with a 100% Teflon grease.

When the threads conduct current and are NOT turned to switch on and off
then, so I am led to believe, Nyogel is the best to use.

 

[dano]

1. Posted in incorrect forum.
2. There's several threads about lubes.

I'll close this one, to keep the information somewhat consolidated.