The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod Made a Bold First Impression
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod arrived in simple, no-frills packaging, a welcome change from the overly-marketed products flooding the outdoor gear market. It promises to be a reliable cleaning tool for small caliber firearms. As someone who’s seen countless cleaning rods bend, break, or simply fail to do the job, I was cautiously optimistic. I’ve used rods from Hoppe’s and Otis, but both have shown limitations in certain situations.
I needed a rod that could handle the tight bores of my .17 HMR and .22 LR rifles without risking damage. My biggest frustration has been flimsy rods that flex too much, making it difficult to effectively clean the bore. The Dewey rod had a reputation for rigidity, which swayed my decision. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the quality of the materials; the handle felt solid, and the coated rod itself inspired confidence.
Compared to cheaper rods I’ve used, the 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod felt significantly more substantial. The coating appeared thick and durable, a far cry from the thin, easily-scratched coatings on some of the budget options. I picked it over a cheaper rod by generic Brand X because I value quality and longevity. I was impressed and eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod on my .22 LR target rifle after a day at the range. The range was dry and dusty, leaving a noticeable amount of residue in the barrel. The rod slid smoothly through the bore with a tight-fitting patch. I immediately noticed the benefit of the coated rod as it prevented any scratching or damage to the rifling.
The handle provided a comfortable grip, and the rod’s rigidity allowed me to apply consistent pressure to scrub the bore effectively. There were no issues with bending or flexing, even when encountering stubborn carbon buildup. I was impressed with how easily the rod navigated the bore.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod is holding up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear on the coating, and the handle remains securely attached. Cleaning is straightforward; I simply wipe the rod down with a solvent-soaked cloth after each use.
The rod has maintained its straightness and rigidity even after repeated use. This is a significant improvement over previous cleaning rods that quickly developed bends or kinks. It far outperforms the cheap, multi-piece cleaning rods I’ve used in the past. This rod has proven its worth in reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod
Specifications
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod is designed for small caliber firearms. This includes .17 to .22 caliber rifles and pistols. It features a 36-inch coated rod, providing ample length for most rifle barrels. The rod has an 8-32 thread for accepting various cleaning attachments.
The handle is made from durable plastic, designed for a comfortable and secure grip. The coating on the rod is a proprietary nylon, formulated to prevent bore damage. These specifications are important because they directly impact the rod’s ability to effectively and safely clean small caliber firearms. The length ensures proper cleaning of long barrels, and the coating protects the rifling.
Performance & Functionality
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod performs its job exceptionally well. The coated rod glides smoothly through the bore, removing fouling and residue without scratching or damaging the rifling. Its rigidity allows for consistent pressure. This is necessary for thorough cleaning.
The rod is easy to use and provides a secure platform for cleaning patches and brushes. One area that could be improved is the addition of a rotating handle, though the existing handle is still comfortable and functional. It definitely meets expectations for a high-quality cleaning rod.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The Dewey rod feels solid and well-constructed. The weight is balanced, and the handle provides a comfortable grip.
The design is simple and functional, focusing on ease of use and effectiveness. There’s no steep learning curve. Even a novice shooter can use this rod effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod is built to last. The durable coating and solid construction ensure that it will withstand years of use with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down after each cleaning session.
With reasonable care, this rod should provide a lifetime of reliable service. This makes it a worthwhile investment for any firearm owner.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod doesn’t come with any accessories. However, its 8-32 threaded end is compatible with a wide range of cleaning attachments. These include brushes, jags, and patch holders from various manufacturers.
It’s compatible with popular accessories from brands like Hoppe’s, Pro-Shot, and Tipton. This compatibility provides flexibility in choosing the best cleaning tools for specific needs.
Pros and Cons of 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod
Pros
- The coated rod prevents bore damage, ensuring the longevity of your firearm.
- Its 36-inch length is ideal for most rifle barrels, providing thorough cleaning.
- The rigid construction allows for consistent pressure and effective scrubbing.
- It’s compatible with a wide range of cleaning attachments, providing versatility.
- The rod is durable and built to last, making it a worthwhile investment.
Cons
- It doesn’t include any accessories, requiring separate purchase of brushes and jags.
- The handle, while comfortable, is not a rotating handle. This feature is preferred by some users.
Who Should Buy 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod?
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod is perfect for any small-caliber firearm owner who values quality and wants to protect their bore. This includes target shooters, hunters, and plinkers. Anyone who owns a .17 or .22 caliber firearm will benefit from this tool.
Those who are on an extreme budget and prioritize cost over quality might skip this product. However, the long-term benefits of protecting the bore far outweigh the initial cost. A bore guide would be a must-have accessory for added protection.
Conclusion on 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod
The 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod is a top-notch cleaning tool that delivers on its promises. It is durable, effective, and designed to protect the bore of your firearm. The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction.
I would absolutely recommend the 36-17S Dewey 36 Small Caliber Rod to anyone looking for a reliable cleaning rod for their small-caliber firearms. Invest in the Dewey rod to ensure the longevity and accuracy of your firearm. Don’t settle for anything less.