The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning a firearm, especially one chambered in the diminutive .17 caliber, requires a delicate touch. I’ve spent countless hours meticulously maintaining my rifles, and the right cleaning rod can make all the difference between a pristine bore and a damaged one. That’s why the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod immediately caught my eye.
For years, I’ve struggled with cleaning rods that either scratched my barrels or felt flimsy and unreliable. I needed a rod specifically designed for the smaller calibers that wouldn’t damage the delicate rifling.
Upon unboxing, the Dewey rod felt solid and well-constructed. The nylon coating looked uniform and promisingly durable, a stark contrast to the peeling vinyl coatings I’ve encountered on cheaper rods. It had a good heft to it, inspiring confidence.
I considered a few alternatives, including a bore snake and a multi-piece stainless steel rod. However, the bore snake didn’t provide the thorough cleaning I desired, and the stainless steel rod, even with a coating, made me nervous around the crown of the barrel. The Dewey, with its one-piece construction and nylon coating, seemed like the best solution for gentle but effective cleaning.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. It felt like a serious tool, designed for precision cleaning. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my workbench, cleaning my custom .17 HMR varmint rifle after a long day of prairie dog hunting. The conditions were dusty and dry, and the rifle’s bore was heavily fouled. I was particularly interested to see how the rod handled carbon buildup and powder residue.
The Dewey rod performed admirably. It slid smoothly through the bore, guided by my bore guide, without any binding or scratching. The ball-bearing handle made it easy to rotate the rod and apply consistent pressure.
I was initially concerned about the length of the rod, as 11 inches seemed short for my 22-inch barrel. However, with the bore guide in place, it reached the critical areas near the chamber without issue. No issues or surprises arose during the first cleaning session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod continues to impress. It’s become an indispensable part of my cleaning kit. The nylon coating shows no signs of wear or peeling, despite repeated exposure to solvents and bore cleaners.
The rod remains straight and true, without any bends or kinks. Maintenance is simple; I wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the handle. It still performs just as good as new.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rods, the Dewey is a revelation. It cleans more effectively, is gentler on my barrels, and feels far more durable. It has undoubtedly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
Specifications
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is purpose-built for precision cleaning. It features a durable nylon coating.
- Caliber: .17
- Length: 11 inches (rod length, handle adds to overall length)
- Coating: Nylon
- Handle: Ball-bearing swivel handle
- Thread: 5-40 female (specifically for .17 caliber accessories)
- Adapter: Not included (required for standard 8-32 brushes)
These specifications are crucial for maintaining the accuracy and longevity of a .17 caliber firearm. The nylon coating prevents scratching, while the ball-bearing handle ensures smooth and consistent cleaning. The correct thread size guarantees compatibility with appropriate brushes and jags.
Performance & Functionality
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod performs its job exceptionally well. It effectively removes fouling without damaging the bore.
- Accuracy: The rod itself doesn’t directly impact accuracy, but a clean bore definitely contributes to better groupings.
- Reliability: The rod is sturdy and reliable, without any bending or flexing.
- Usability: The ball-bearing handle makes it easy to use, even for extended cleaning sessions.
The only area for improvement might be the inclusion of a brush adapter, but that’s a minor inconvenience. Overall, it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple but effective. The nylon coating feels smooth and protective. The handle is comfortable to grip and rotates freely.
The rod is lightweight and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. It’s well-balanced.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is built to last. The nylon coating is resistant to wear and tear. Minimal maintenance is required.
With proper care, this rod should provide years of reliable service. It is easy to clean with a simple wipe down after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod comes with a Dewey Jag that takes a patch either wrapped-around, or over-the-end, and fits directly onto the rod’s male thread.
- Accessories: A brush adapter is NOT included, but can be purchased separately.
- Customization: There are no specific customization options for the rod itself.
- Compatibility: The 5-40 female thread limits the compatibility with standard 8-32 accessories unless an adapter is used.
The lack of a brush adapter is a slight drawback, but readily available aftermarket options mitigate this issue. The Dewey Jag is a nice addition that makes patch application easy.
Pros and Cons of Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
Pros
- Nylon coating protects delicate rifling.
- Smooth ball-bearing handle ensures easy rotation.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Effective at removing fouling without damaging the bore.
- Includes a specialized Dewey Jag for patch application.
Cons
- Adapter for standard 8-32 brushes is NOT included.
- 11-inch length may be short for longer barrels without a bore guide.
Who Should Buy Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod?
Perfect for: Owners of .17 caliber rifles who prioritize bore protection and effective cleaning. Competitive shooters and varmint hunters who demand consistent accuracy. Anyone seeking a durable and reliable cleaning rod specifically designed for smaller calibers.
Who should skip this product? Those who primarily use bore snakes or prefer multi-piece cleaning rods. Those who don’t own any .17 caliber firearms.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality bore guide is essential for protecting the crown of the barrel and ensuring proper alignment. A brush adapter is necessary for using standard 8-32 brushes.
Conclusion on Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is a well-designed and expertly crafted cleaning tool that delivers on its promise. The nylon coating provides exceptional bore protection, while the ball-bearing handle makes cleaning smooth and effortless. The included Dewey Jag makes the patching process easier.
The price of $18.49 is more than justified for the quality and performance it offers. While the lack of a brush adapter is a minor inconvenience, the overall value is undeniable.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod to anyone who owns a .17 caliber rifle. It’s an investment in the longevity and accuracy of your firearm. Upgrade your cleaning kit today and experience the difference a quality cleaning rod can make!