Let’s Talk About Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit
The Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit promises a compact and portable solution for maintaining your 12 and 20 gauge shotguns. Real Avid aims to provide an all-in-one cleaning system in a weather-resistant case, making it appealing for field use. I was drawn to this kit hoping for a convenient and organized solution for cleaning my shotguns after a day at the range or in the field.
I needed a cleaning kit that was compact enough to throw in my range bag without taking up too much space. I also wanted something that could handle both my 12 and 20 gauge shotguns.
Upon unboxing the Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit, my initial impression was mixed. The case felt sturdy enough, but the individual components seemed rather lightweight. I immediately compared it to my older, bulkier cleaning kit from Hoppe’s and a more premium kit from Otis Technology.
While the Hoppe’s kit is reliable, it’s clunky and not very portable. The Otis kit, on the other hand, is excellent, but significantly more expensive. My first impression was one of cautious optimism quickly tempered by the feel of the components; I hoped the performance would outweigh the initial concerns about material quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit at my local shooting range after a morning of trap shooting with my 12 gauge and some skeet with my 20 gauge. The weather was dry and mild, so I didn’t get to test its weather resistance immediately.
The initial cleaning process was straightforward, but the smaller brush size compared to what I’m used to was immediately apparent. I felt I had to spend more time scrubbing the bore to achieve the same level of cleanliness. Also, connecting the rod sections felt a little insecure and wobbly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use, the initial concerns about durability started to materialize. The cleaning rod sections began to show signs of bending under moderate pressure. The phosphor bronze brushes seemed to wear down faster than expected.
Cleaning the kit itself is easy; the oil-resistant tray does wipe clean as advertised. However, the overall longevity of the components is questionable. Compared to my older, more robust cleaning kits, the Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit feels significantly less durable and I have to apply much more caution when using it.
Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit
Specifications
The Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit includes:
- A 7-section rod system with a swivel tip that combines to form a 33” rod.
- This provides adequate length for most shotguns, but the swivel tip’s durability is questionable.
- A T-handle for comfortable grip.
- The T-handle offers decent leverage, though it could be more ergonomically designed.
- 20 GA and 12 GA mops.
- These are designed to remove excess solvent and debris.
- 20 GA and 12 GA phosphor bronze brushes.
- These scrub away stubborn fouling.
- Slotted tip for patches.
- This secures the cleaning patches to the rod.
- Thread adapter.
- Allows for compatibility with other cleaning attachments.
- 50 3” x 3” cleaning patches.
- Adequate amount for several cleaning sessions, but the quality is basic.
- A compact, weather-resistant travel case.
- The case is a key selling point, offering organization and portability.
The Manufacturer is Real Avid. It’s designed for 12 and 20 gauge shotguns, and the kit contains 9 pieces.
Performance & Functionality
The kit aims to provide a complete cleaning solution for shotguns, but its performance is somewhat underwhelming. The brushes and mops do their job adequately, but the flimsiness of the cleaning rod significantly impacts usability. The compact case is a definite plus, but it doesn’t compensate for the kit’s shortcomings in robustness.
The Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit meets basic expectations, but it doesn’t exceed them. It’s functional for light cleaning, but not ideal for heavy-duty or frequent use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design prioritizes portability, and the compact case is well-organized. The materials, however, feel cheap and lightweight.
There’s a slight learning curve in assembling the cleaning rod, but overall, the kit is fairly user-friendly. The T-handle offers decent grip, but could be more comfortable for extended use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit isn’t built to last. The cleaning rod sections are prone to bending, and the brushes wear out quickly.
Maintenance is straightforward; the oil-resistant tray wipes clean easily. However, replacing worn components will likely be necessary sooner than expected.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes with all the essentials for cleaning a shotgun. However, there aren’t many customization options or additional accessories included.
The thread adapter does allow for some compatibility with brushes and mops from other brands, but the main limiting factor is the fragility of the cleaning rod itself.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit
Pros
- Compact and portable design makes it easy to carry in a range bag or hunting pack.
- The Weather-Resistant Travel Case keeps components organized and protected from the elements.
- Includes essential cleaning tools for both 12 GA and 20 GA shotguns, offering versatility.
- The Oil-Resistant Tray is easy to clean and helps prevent mess during maintenance.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters.
Cons
- The Cleaning Rod sections are flimsy and prone to bending under moderate pressure.
- The Brushes wear down quickly, reducing their effectiveness over time.
- Overall build quality is lacking, resulting in concerns about long-term durability.
Who Should Buy Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit?
This kit is perfect for casual shooters who need a basic and portable cleaning solution. It’s also suitable for those on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over durability.
Those who require a robust and long-lasting cleaning kit should skip this product. Serious hunters or competitive shooters who demand reliable performance in demanding conditions should invest in a higher-quality option.
A must-have modification would be to replace the cleaning rod with a sturdier, one-piece rod for increased durability and ease of use.
Conclusion on Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit
The Real Avid Gun Boss – Shotgun Cleaning Kit offers a convenient and affordable solution for basic shotgun maintenance. However, its limitations in durability and build quality prevent it from being a truly outstanding product.
While the price is justified for its portability and included accessories, serious shooters should consider investing in a more robust cleaning kit.
Ultimately, I would cautiously recommend it to casual shooters on a budget, but advise those needing a reliable and long-lasting kit to look elsewhere. Don’t just take my word for it; weigh your options carefully and consider investing in a higher-quality cleaning kit for a superior shooting experience!