I have experimented with different lubes for years. My favorite lube for a hunting load is bear grease. I heat it just enough to melt the grease and dip strips of pillow ticking in it then roll them up and squeeze out the excess. Purehog lard would probably work just as well but not bacon grease because of the salt.

At the range I have found that olive oil and water 50/50 mix works well but must be shook up each time you use it because the oil and water will seperate in the bottle.

I cut my patches at the muzzle with a sharp knife.