I use a solvent tank with Stoddard solvent in it for most cleaning. I like the solvent tank as it has a pump and a filter. It allows me to flush large volumes of solvent through actions and wash away gunk. If parts are very waxy I can put them in a wire basket and soak them in the solvent.
On some applications where I just need a blast of cleaning and don't desire to get the entire part wet I use non chlorinated brake cleaner. Using carb cleaner on some applications might be fine but you need to be aware of the risks of damaging finishes etc. It works fine when cleaning out ports on a compensator or gas blocks / tubes as it dissolves carbon and gunk quite well. That being said be aware if the part is painted or uses some of the new tech spray and bake gun coatings. Carb cleaner may eat those or at least soften the finish. Carb cleaner WILL destroy rubber grips, painted stocks as well as traditional wood varnishes etc.
Alternately you can use concentrated Simple Green and HOT water as a general cleaner. Simply spray and rinse followed by compressed air to dry. Simple green, like good solvents, strips ALL lubes and surface protection off the metal parts so reapplying rust prevention ASAP is critical.
As always, safety first when using solvents and spray cleaners. Adequate ventilation and no smoking are good recommendations as well as skin protection might be prudent. Some brake cleaners will dry and defat the skin quickly. If you expose your hands to brake clean or solvent in excess; the symptoms are tingly skin, redness, itching and possibly blisters on the back of the hands and between fingers. Apply a good hand lotion as a remedy to replace the oils you washed out of the skin.
Blue mechanic's gloves are a good choice and I use them daily when spending any time in the solvent tank. Solvents can and DO permeate the skin and long exposure will leave you stinky for days. I advocate the use of gloves when ever possible. Your hands will thank you. No it probably won't give you cancer, or make your fingers rot off but dry hands and that stink of solvent gets old.
