The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA Made a Bold First Impression
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA enters the crowded world of firearm cleaning tools with a promise of simplicity and portability. This single-pass bore cleaner, manufactured by Real Avid, is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns, aiming to streamline the cleaning process for hunters and sport shooters alike. Its self-storing design and dual-action cleaning cable immediately caught my eye, offering a potential solution to the often bulky and cumbersome nature of traditional cleaning kits.
My motivation for trying the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA stemmed from a persistent frustration. I have always found shotgun cleaning to be a tedious chore after a long day of hunting or clay shooting. The array of rods, brushes, patches, and solvents always seemed excessive, and packing everything neatly was a constant battle.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the compact size of the Bore Boss. The “flex-case handle” felt surprisingly robust and provided a secure grip. The integrated storage for the brush and mop was a welcome touch, eliminating the need for separate containers and preventing solvent from leaking onto other gear.
Compared to my existing multi-piece cleaning rod and separate brushes, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA felt like a minimalist dream. I’d also considered a bore snake, but I was concerned about its potential to get stuck or break. The Bore Boss seemed to offer a better balance of portability and cleaning power.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The design was certainly clever, but I was eager to see how well it performed in real-world conditions. I anticipated a noticeable improvement in ease of use and portability, but I also wondered if the single-pass design could truly deliver a thorough cleaning.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA immediately after a morning of dove hunting in a dusty field. The conditions were far from ideal, with noticeable residue inside the barrel of my 12-gauge.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. Simply unspooling the cable from the handle and feeding it through the bore was significantly faster and easier than assembling my traditional cleaning rod. Even with dusty conditions, the cable fed smoothly.
To my surprise, the single pass effectively removed the majority of the fouling. Some heavier deposits required a second pass, but overall, the cleaning power was impressive for such a compact tool. The ergonomic handle provided a comfortable and secure grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use following clay shooting sessions and subsequent hunts, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA has proven to be a reliable cleaning companion. The dual-action cable shows no signs of fraying or weakening.
The flex-case handle has also held up well, with no cracks or damage despite being tossed into my range bag. Cleaning the Bore Boss itself is simple. A quick wipe down with a cloth is all it takes to remove excess solvent and debris.
Compared to my previous cleaning routine, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA has drastically reduced cleaning time and effort. I no longer dread the post-shoot cleaning process. This tool has become an indispensable part of my shotgun maintenance kit.
Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA
Specifications
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns.
It features a 32-inch dual-action cable. The cable has a phosphor bronze bore brush followed by a 10-inch braided bore mop.
The flex-case handle provides an ergonomic grip and stores the cleaning cable.
The integrated storage system protects the brush and mop from damage and debris. It also prevents solvent from contaminating other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA excels at quickly and effectively removing fouling from shotgun barrels. The phosphor bronze brush effectively loosens carbon deposits. The braided mop then whisks them away.
The tool performs best on lightly fouled barrels, delivering a clean bore in a single pass. Heavier fouling may require multiple passes. However, even then, it still cleans much faster than traditional methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA is both practical and user-friendly. The flex-case handle is comfortable to hold and provides excellent grip. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
The self-storing design is a stroke of genius. The brush and mop stay protected and prevent messy solvent spills. There is virtually no learning curve. The Bore Boss is ready to use straight out of the package.
Durability & Maintenance
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA appears to be built to last. The cable is made from durable materials and shows no signs of wear after repeated use. The flex-case handle is also surprisingly robust.
Maintaining the Bore Boss is incredibly simple. After each use, I simply wipe down the cable and brush with a clean cloth. Periodically, I’ll apply a small amount of gun oil to the cable to keep it lubricated.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA does not come with any additional accessories. It also offers no customization options.
The product is designed as a complete, self-contained cleaning system. As such, there is little need for accessories. It is, however, compatible with most standard bore solvents and oils.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA
Pros
- Extremely portable and compact design. It easily fits in a range bag or hunting pack.
- Easy and fast to use. Cleaning a shotgun barrel takes just minutes.
- Effective single-pass cleaning. Removes most fouling with minimal effort.
- Self-storing design. Keeps the brush and mop protected and prevents messes.
- Durable construction. The cable and handle are built to last.
Cons
- May require multiple passes for heavily fouled barrels.
- Not as thorough as a full cleaning kit for deep cleaning.
Who Should Buy Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA?
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA is perfect for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone who wants a quick and easy way to clean their 12-gauge shotgun in the field. It’s also ideal for those who value portability and convenience over a more involved, deep-cleaning process.
Those who primarily shoot corrosive ammunition or require an exceptionally thorough cleaning should consider a more traditional cleaning kit. Those shooters needing a deep clean will need a more intensive setup.
A bore solvent and a gun oil for lubrication are must-have accompaniments. While not strictly necessary, a small cleaning mat can also keep your workspace tidy.
Conclusion on Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA delivers on its promise of a simple, portable, and effective cleaning solution for 12-gauge shotguns. At $9.99, the price is more than justified. It significantly reduces cleaning time and effort.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 12 GA to anyone looking for a convenient way to maintain their shotgun in the field or at the range. It’s a small investment that offers a significant return in time savings and hassle-free cleaning. Ditch the bulky cleaning kits and give the Bore Boss a try. You won’t regret it!