What is generally used for lubrication of stainless steel bolt snaps?
Lots of great replies above, but not much data given.
My SMB has an SS bolt snap that is 5yrs old. It sticks a little when I push it open.
I use Boeshield T-9 waterproof protectant developed by the Boeing Aircraft company and it leaves a strong film. Expensive at $13 for small 4oz spray can.
I spray Boeshield on both my SS and Brass clips and like others it makes them slide effortlessly immediately.
You can get it at West Marine or Amazon. Where this product excels is in how long it lasts.
Here's how long it lasts for me before it wears off and needs another treatment:
4 months diving an average of 12 trips during that time frame.
3 drops each trip and deploying my SMB each time for an average total of 36 SS clip openings
Then the clip starts to get a touch sticky opening. Not anywhere near frozen, but you can feel it stick when pushing it down.
Spray the T-9 but it needs a full 3 days to dry and harden the film to make it last the longest.
So if you are just going on an annual vacation, use WD-40. If you are a weekly diver in harsh saltwater then pay the money and use Boeshield.
Your mileage may vary, but you know you get what you pay for.