Let’s Dive into Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook promises to be a simple yet effective tool for anyone needing a stable platform for their firearm during cleaning, maintenance, or even light gunsmithing. Coming from Thunderbolt Customs, a company aiming to provide practical solutions, this rest boasts a unique “Big Mouth” design and a hook feature. Priced affordably at $19.99, it sits in a space where functionality outweighs frills, appealing to budget-conscious shooters and DIY enthusiasts.
I’ve often struggled to find a stable, secure rest for my shotguns when cleaning them, especially on my crowded workbench. I needed something that wouldn’t scratch the finish and could hold various shotgun barrel sizes securely. Many alternatives seemed either too bulky or too expensive, prompting me to try the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook.
My initial impression was positive; the rest felt surprisingly sturdy for its size. The “Big Mouth” design looked like it would indeed accommodate a range of shotgun barrel diameters. The hook, presumably for securing the rest to a table edge or cleaning station, was a welcome addition, offering extra stability.
Compared to a traditional vise grip or a padded gun cradle, the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook seemed simpler and more targeted. It’s less versatile than a full-fledged vise but potentially more practical for quick shotgun-specific tasks. My initial excitement stemmed from its potential to solve a specific need efficiently and affordably, a sentiment quickly followed by the need to truly test it out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook in my garage workshop during my routine shotgun cleaning session. The shop is relatively well-lit, but can get quite dusty. I used it to support both my 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns while cleaning their barrels and actions.
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook performed adequately under these relatively mild conditions. It provided a stable enough support for general cleaning, though I did notice some slight slippage on my smooth workbench surface. The hook, when attached to the edge of the bench, minimized the slippage and further enhanced stability.
It took very little time to get used to the rest, thanks to its simplicity. I did notice that the plastic material, while durable, could potentially scratch a delicate blued finish if not handled carefully. This required me to be more mindful than usual, ensuring no grit was present between the rest and the shotgun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook has held up surprisingly well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even with repeated use and contact with various cleaning solvents. The plastic construction seems robust enough for its intended purpose.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any accumulated dirt and grime. Compared to my previous reliance on makeshift supports (rolled-up towels and wooden blocks), the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook is a significant improvement in convenience and stability. While it doesn’t offer the same level of security as a dedicated gun vise, it’s a far more practical and affordable solution for basic shotgun maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook
Specifications
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook is designed specifically for shotguns. Thunderbolt Customs specifies that the hook can accommodate items ranging from 1.25 inches to 2.37 inches in diameter. The rest is constructed from a durable, molded plastic material.
- Manufacturer: Thunderbolt Customs.
- Additional Features: Hook around Items ranging from 1.25in. to 2.37in.
These specifications are important because they define the rest’s compatibility with different shotgun gauges and its ability to secure to various surfaces. The plastic construction ensures the rest is lightweight and resistant to common cleaning solvents, but also means it might be susceptible to scratches and wear over time. The hook feature is particularly useful for preventing slippage during cleaning and maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook is to provide a stable platform for a shotgun. It accomplishes this reasonably well, offering a secure rest for cleaning, light repairs, and accessory mounting. The “Big Mouth” design comfortably accommodates most common shotgun barrel sizes.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. Its main weakness is its relatively limited functionality; it’s not a substitute for a full-fledged gun vise. It meets expectations for basic shotgun support but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook features a straightforward, no-frills design. The molded plastic construction is lightweight but feels reasonably sturdy. Its ergonomic design cradles the shotgun barrel securely without causing damage to the finish (provided care is taken to avoid trapped grit).
The rest is user-friendly and requires no setup or adjustment. The hook is a thoughtful addition, improving stability when attached to a workbench or cleaning station.
Durability & Maintenance
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook, being made of plastic, is expected to last a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent will help prevent the buildup of grime and extend its lifespan. It’s not designed to be easily repaired, but its simple construction minimizes the risk of failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook comes with no additional accessories. There are no customization options available. The design is intended to be a standalone solution for basic shotgun support.
Pros and Cons of Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook
Pros
- Affordable price point at $19.99, making it accessible to most shooters.
- Simple and easy to use, requiring no setup or adjustments.
- “Big Mouth” design accommodates various shotgun barrel sizes.
- Hook feature enhances stability when attached to a workbench.
- Lightweight and durable plastic construction.
Cons
- Plastic material could potentially scratch delicate shotgun finishes.
- Limited functionality compared to a full-fledged gun vise.
- May slip on smooth surfaces without the hook engaged.
Who Should Buy Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook?
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook is perfect for budget-conscious shotgun owners who perform basic cleaning and maintenance tasks. It’s also suitable for casual shooters who need a stable platform for mounting accessories or making minor repairs. This is a great tool for the average shooter to keep on their workbench.
This product might not be ideal for professional gunsmiths or those who require a highly versatile and secure gun vise. Anyone dealing with expensive or antique shotguns should use extreme caution, and should first cover the rest in soft material to avoid any surface damage. A gun vise would likely be the better choice for those seeking unparalleled stability.
A soft, lint-free cloth to place between the rest and the shotgun is a must-have accessory. This will minimize the risk of scratches and protect delicate finishes.
Conclusion on Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook
The Thunderbolt Customs Little Sure Shot Big Mouth Shotgun Rest w/ Hook is a simple, affordable, and functional solution for basic shotgun support. While it doesn’t offer the same level of versatility or security as a dedicated gun vise, it’s a significant improvement over makeshift supports and a worthwhile investment for budget-minded shotgun owners. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a practical addition to any workshop or cleaning station.
At $19.99, the price is justified for the level of convenience and stability it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and effective way to support their shotgun during cleaning and maintenance. It’s a no-frills tool that gets the job done, and for many shotgun owners, that’s all that matters. Grab yours today and make your next cleaning session a little easier!