The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga Made a Bold First Impression
For over a decade, I’ve maintained a near-religious cleaning regimen for my firearms. Cleaning isn’t just maintenance; it’s respect for the tool and confidence in its performance, and the Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga promises to simplify that process for my shotguns. It claims to be the fastest bore cleaner, which is a tempting promise for those who value efficiency and thoroughness.
I was seeking a faster, more convenient way to clean my 12-gauge after clays or a hunt without lugging around my entire cleaning kit. The allure of a one-pass cleaning solution that could live in my range bag was strong. When it arrived, I noted the compact “Viper Den” case, a feature immediately setting it apart from the standard BoreSnake I’d previously used. It seemed more robust and thoughtfully packaged than the usual loose BoreSnake in a plastic bag.
I’ve used standard BoreSnakes and pull-through cleaning kits from Otis Technology in the past, both effective but lacking the all-in-one convenience of this product. I chose the Hoppes 24035VD because the Viper Den seemed like a worthwhile upgrade for storage and protection of the cleaning rope itself. The added handle for pulling also suggested a better grip and easier cleaning process.
My first impression was positive; the Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den felt substantial. It showed a clear improvement in both design and practicality compared to its older versions and competing products. I was excited to put it to the test on my Benelli Super Black Eagle II, which tends to get quite dirty after a day at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hoppes 24035VD at my local sporting clays range after a particularly dusty day of shooting. The air was dry, and my shotgun’s barrel was noticeably fouled with powder residue and plastic wad debris.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. A few drops of Hoppes No. 9 lubricating bore cleaner, a staple in my cleaning kit, on the leading bronze brush and I was ready to go. The built-in handle of the Viper Den provided an excellent grip, making pulling the BoreSnake through the 28-inch barrel smooth and effortless.
The most notable surprise was the amount of fouling the BoreSnake removed in a single pass. The barrel gleamed noticeably cleaner than after using patches and a traditional cleaning rod. No issues or complications arose during this initial use; the Hoppes 24035VD performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, cleaning my shotgun after each range trip and a few hunts, the Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den continues to impress. It’s proven to be reliable and consistent in removing fouling and debris.
So far, there are no significant signs of wear and tear on the BoreSnake itself. The bronze brush is still intact, and the rope material shows no signs of fraying. The Viper Den case remains functional, protecting the BoreSnake in my range bag.
Maintaining the Hoppes 24035VD is straightforward. A quick wash with warm, soapy water after each use, followed by air drying, keeps it clean and ready for the next cleaning session. It outperforms my previous cleaning methods in terms of speed and convenience, though I still perform a more thorough cleaning periodically.
Breaking Down the Features of Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga
Specifications
The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns. It features an integrated bronze brush to loosen carbon fouling and debris.
The cleaning rope has a surface area 160 times larger than a standard cleaning patch. This effectively wipes the bore clean after the brush loosens the fouling. The Viper Den case is made of durable plastic. It provides a compact and protected storage solution with a built-in handle.
These specifications contribute directly to the performance and user experience. The specific gauge ensures a proper fit for effective cleaning. The integrated brush and large cleaning surface provide thorough cleaning. The Viper Den makes storage and handling more convenient.
Performance & Functionality
The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake excels at its primary function: quickly and efficiently cleaning a shotgun bore. It removes loose powder residue, plastic wad debris, and light carbon fouling with ease.
The strengths of the BoreSnake are its speed, convenience, and ease of use. A single pass often provides sufficient cleaning for routine maintenance. One potential improvement would be a slightly more aggressive brush for removing heavier carbon buildup. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a quick bore cleaner.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hoppes 24035VD is good, with durable materials used throughout. The cleaning rope feels robust and well-constructed, while the bronze brush is securely integrated.
The Viper Den case is well-designed and ergonomic. The molded handle provides a comfortable grip for pulling the BoreSnake through the barrel. The overall design is user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve for experienced firearm owners.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake appears to be a durable product. The cleaning rope shows no signs of fraying or damage after repeated use.
Maintaining the BoreSnake is simple and straightforward. A quick cleaning with warm soapy water and air drying is all that’s typically required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den itself does not have customization options. However, it is compatible with various bore cleaning solvents and oils.
The Viper Den provides a dedicated storage solution. This eliminates the need for separate carrying cases or containers. It enhances the overall usability of the BoreSnake.
Pros and Cons of Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga
Pros
- Faster cleaning. It significantly reduces cleaning time compared to traditional methods.
- Convenient portability. The Viper Den case makes it easy to store and transport in a range bag or backpack.
- Ease of use. It requires minimal effort and skill to operate.
- Effective cleaning. The integrated brush and large cleaning surface ensure a thorough cleaning.
- Durable construction. It is built to last with high-quality materials.
Cons
- Doesn’t eliminate the need for deep cleaning. The BoreSnake is best for routine maintenance but may not remove heavy carbon buildup.
- The handle could be larger for gloved hands.
Who Should Buy Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga?
The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den is perfect for shotgun owners seeking a fast, convenient, and effective way to clean their bores after shooting. It is ideally suited for hunters, sporting clays shooters, and recreational shooters who want to maintain their firearms quickly and easily.
Those who require a deep, meticulous cleaning after every shooting session might find the BoreSnake insufficient on its own and still require traditional cleaning methods. Individuals with very large hands or those who frequently wear thick gloves while cleaning might find the handle on the Viper Den a bit small.
A must-have accessory is a quality bore cleaning solvent such as Hoppes No. 9, which helps to loosen fouling and enhance the cleaning process. Regular lubrication of the bore after cleaning is also recommended to protect against rust and corrosion.
Conclusion on Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga
The Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den Bore Cleaner Rope 12 Ga is a worthwhile investment for any shotgun owner looking to simplify their cleaning routine. Its speed, convenience, and effectiveness make it a valuable addition to any range bag.
At $11.49, the price is more than justified by the time and effort it saves. The added Viper Den case enhances the overall value by providing a convenient storage and handling solution.
I would highly recommend the Hoppes 24035VD BoreSnake Viper Den to anyone seeking a faster and more convenient way to clean their 12-gauge shotgun. Simplify your cleaning routine and get back to enjoying your time at the range or in the field!