The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless cleaning tools come and go. I thought I’d seen it all, from the fanciest carbon fiber rods to the most aggressively bristled brushes. But sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best, and that’s what piqued my interest in the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread.
My quest for the perfect bore cleaning tool began with frustration. I was tired of solvent residue clinging to my shotgun barrels, even after rigorous brushing. I needed something that would efficiently soak up the remaining gunk and leave a pristine finish. I remembered my grandfather using a bore mop with his old side-by-side, and I wondered if the Kleen-Bore mop could bring back that old-school charm and effectiveness to my cleaning routine.
Upon receiving the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop, I immediately noted its simplicity. It’s essentially a tightly wound cotton mop attached to a threaded brass fitting. The build quality felt robust enough for its intended purpose.
Compared to some of the more modern synthetic bore snakes, the Kleen-Bore mop seemed almost archaic. I considered options like the Hoppe’s BoreSnake or the Otis Technology Ripcord, both popular choices. I ultimately chose the Kleen-Bore mop for its classic design and promise of superior absorbency due to its all-cotton construction. I also appreciate that it’s purpose-built for 20 and 28 gauge shotguns, ensuring a snug fit.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a no-frills, back-to-basics cleaning tool that might just be exactly what I needed. I was excited to see if it could live up to the promise of leaving my shotgun barrels spotless.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to put the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop to the test came after a particularly dusty skeet shooting session. I had put about 200 rounds through my 20-gauge over-under. The barrels were definitely showing signs of fouling.
I applied a generous amount of CLP (Clean, Lubricate, Protect) to the Kleen-Bore mop and ran it through each barrel several times. The mop glided smoothly, and I could feel it effectively soaking up the residual powder and grime. I was impressed by how much gunk the cotton mop managed to collect.
The Kleen-Bore mop proved easy to use, even for a novice. The 5/16-27 thread connected securely to my cleaning rod. There were no unexpected snags or issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple cleaning sessions, the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop has proven its worth. It remains a reliable and effective part of my cleaning kit. The mop has shown minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent use.
Maintaining the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop is straightforward. I simply wash it with warm water and dish soap after each use and let it air dry completely. This prevents any solvent residue from building up and helps prolong its lifespan.
Compared to my previous experiences with bore snakes, the Kleen-Bore mop offers a more thorough cleaning. The cotton fibers seem to reach into every nook and cranny of the barrel, leaving a noticeably cleaner surface. I find it to be more effective at removing stubborn fouling than bore brushes alone.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread is specifically designed for 20 and 28 gauge shotguns. It features a tightly wound, 100% cotton mop head. The thread size is a standard 5/16-27, ensuring compatibility with most cleaning rods.
These specifications directly influence the mop’s performance. The cotton construction provides excellent absorbency. The tight winding ensures effective contact with the barrel walls. The standard thread size means it will work with almost any existing cleaning kit.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop excels at its primary task: cleaning shotgun bores. It effectively applies solvents and oils and removes residual fouling. It does this while leaving a clean, protected surface.
The mop’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. One area for potential improvement would be a slightly more durable thread connection. However, this hasn’t been a problem in my experience thus far. It far exceeds my expectations for a cleaning tool in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop boasts a simple, functional design. The all-cotton mop head is lightweight and easy to maneuver. The 5/16-27 threaded fitting makes it universally compatible.
The mop is exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; simply attach it to your cleaning rod and get to work. The mop’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended cleaning sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop is surprisingly durable for a consumable cleaning item. With proper care, it should last through many cleaning sessions. Regular cleaning with soap and water is key to extending its lifespan.
The mop is not designed to be repaired, but replacement is inexpensive. With reasonable care, one mop should last a year or more for the average shooter.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop is a standalone product and doesn’t require any specific accessories for its basic function. It pairs perfectly with a high-quality cleaning rod and your preferred bore solvent. Some users may prefer using a patch holder in conjunction with the mop for an even more thorough clean.
The mop is compatible with any standard cleaning rod that accepts a 5/16-27 thread. This allows for seamless integration into any existing cleaning kit.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread
Pros
- Superior Absorbency: The 100% cotton construction provides unmatched solvent and oil absorption.
- Thorough Cleaning: The tight-wound mop reaches into every crevice, ensuring a complete clean.
- Universal Compatibility: The 5/16-27 thread fits most standard cleaning rods.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps the mop in top condition.
- Affordable Price: It’s an inexpensive way to enhance your shotgun cleaning routine.
Cons
- Wear Over Time: The cotton mop will eventually degrade with repeated use.
- No Protective Case: Doesn’t come with a storage case.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread?
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop is perfect for shotgun enthusiasts who value a thorough and efficient cleaning process. This includes hunters, sport shooters, and anyone who wants to keep their firearms in top condition. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer a traditional, no-nonsense approach to gun cleaning.
Those who rely heavily on bore snakes for convenience might not immediately appreciate the Kleen-Bore mop. Also, individuals seeking a multi-tool cleaning solution should look elsewhere.
A high-quality bore solvent and a sturdy cleaning rod are must-have accessories to maximize the mop’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread
The Kleen-Bore Bore Mop 20,28 Gauge Shotgun Cotton #5/16-27 Thread is a simple yet remarkably effective cleaning tool. It offers superior absorbency and thorough cleaning at an incredibly affordable price. The price is absolutely justified.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Kleen-Bore mop to anyone seeking to improve their shotgun cleaning routine. If you value simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability, this is the bore mop for you. Invest in the Kleen-Bore Bore Mop and experience the satisfaction of a truly clean shotgun barrel.