The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush Made a Bold First Impression
Let’s be honest, shotgun cleaning brushes aren’t usually the stuff of legend. But the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush promised to make cleaning my trusty 20-gauge a little less tedious, and for $3.49, I figured it was worth a shot (pun intended!). I was looking for a reliable, no-nonsense brush to get rid of stubborn residue, especially after a day of sporting clays where my gun invariably accumulates a generous coating of burnt powder and plastic wad fouling.
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush arrived in a simple, no-frills package, which I appreciated. My initial impression was that it felt sturdy enough for the task at hand. It’s a fairly basic brush, consisting of bronze bristles tightly packed onto a twisted wire core, with a loop at one end for attaching to a cleaning rod.
I’ve used generic brushes before, and some bore snakes that claim to clean effectively. My reason for choosing the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush over others was primarily its targeted design for a 20-gauge shotgun and its price point; some of the ‘premium’ brushes cost significantly more. I wanted something that wouldn’t fall apart after a few uses, and that could really scrub the bore clean.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It didn’t scream “high-end,” but it seemed like a solid, functional tool that would get the job done, a sentiment not usually associated with simple cleaning tools. At the very least, I was hoping it would save me some elbow grease.
Real-World Testing: Putting Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush was after a particularly grimy day at the range. I put around 100 rounds through my 20-gauge, and the barrel was noticeably fouled. Using the brush with a standard cleaning rod and some solvent, I ran it through the bore.
The brush felt effective at dislodging the stubborn plastic wad residue. It wasn’t effortless, but the brush seemed to grip and scrub the bore effectively. I tested the brush in dry and wet conditions using some standard CLP gun oil.
I was initially surprised at how much black crud the brush pulled out on just the first pass. There weren’t any immediate issues, such as bristles falling out or the wire core bending excessively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, cleaning after each range session, the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush has held up reasonably well. There are a few bristles that have bent or broken off, but nothing excessive, and the overall structure remains solid. I’ve used it probably a dozen times by now.
I’ve noticed a slight amount of wear and tear on the bristles. But given the price, this is perfectly acceptable and expected.
The brush is easy enough to clean. I typically spray it down with some gun cleaner and wipe it off with a rag. So far, so good.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper brushes, this Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush definitely outperforms them. It offers more aggressive cleaning power while maintaining its structural integrity.
Breaking Down the Features of Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush
Specifications
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush is specifically designed for cleaning 20-gauge shotgun barrels. It consists of bronze bristles tightly wound around a twisted steel wire core.
The loop at the end allows for easy attachment to standard cleaning rods. These specs all contribute to its primary function: effectively removing fouling and residue from a 20-gauge shotgun bore.
Performance & Functionality
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush performs its job admirably, effectively removing plastic wad fouling, powder residue, and lead deposits from the shotgun bore. It excels at scrubbing away stubborn buildup.
The main strength is its aggressive cleaning action, while a slight weakness is the potential for bristle wear over time. However, given the price, this is a minor issue.
For the price point, it definitely meets expectations. It’s a reliable, effective cleaning tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The bronze bristles are securely attached, and the twisted wire core feels robust.
It’s a simple tool, and there’s no learning curve involved. Just attach it to a cleaning rod and start scrubbing.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush should last a reasonable amount of time. I estimate one to two years with regular use.
It’s easy to maintain. Simply clean it after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush doesn’t come with any accessories. It’s a standalone cleaning tool.
It is compatible with virtually any standard cleaning rod designed for shotguns. There are no real customization options, but it does its job well as is.
Pros and Cons of Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush
Pros
- Effective cleaning of plastic wad fouling and powder residue.
- Durable construction for the price.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Affordable: Great value for the money.
- Compatible with standard cleaning rods.
Cons
- Bristles may wear down over time with frequent use.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush?
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush is perfect for anyone who owns a 20-gauge shotgun and wants a reliable, affordable cleaning tool. This includes hunters, sporting clay enthusiasts, and recreational shooters.
Someone who is looking for a premium, long-lasting brush might want to consider a more expensive option. However, for most users, this brush is more than adequate.
A good solvent and a cleaning rod are must-have accessories. A bore light can also be helpful to inspect the cleanliness of the barrel.
Conclusion on Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush
The Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush is a no-nonsense, effective cleaning tool that gets the job done without breaking the bank. It offers excellent value for its low price.
For $3.49, the price is absolutely justified. It’s a steal.
I would definitely recommend the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush to any 20-gauge shotgun owner. If you are on the fence, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed. Keep your shotgun clean and performing its best. Add the Eliminator 20Ga Shotgun Brush to your cleaning kit today.