Let’s Talk About Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs offer a convenient solution for on-the-go rust protection. These individual cloths, pre-impregnated with Birchwood Casey’s Barricade Rust Protection, are sealed in compact foil packets. It’s an ideal way to keep your firearms protected from corrosion, whether you’re at the range, in the field, or simply storing them at home.
Years of handling firearms in diverse environments taught me the importance of readily available rust prevention. Residue, moisture and even just fingerprints can quickly lead to corrosion, especially in humid climates. I was looking for a portable, mess-free option to maintain my firearms while hunting in unpredictable weather.
Upon opening the packet, I was immediately pleased by the light, clean feel and subtle scent. The cloth itself felt durable enough to handle even the dirtiest firearms. Unlike some other rust prevention solutions, the Barricade Tag Alongs don’t leave a sticky or greasy residue.
I considered several other options, including spray-on protectants and traditional oil-soaked patches. Ultimately, the individual packaging of the Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs won me over. The pre-measured dosage and compact size made them ideal for throwing in my range bag or hunting pack.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; this seemed like a well-thought-out solution to a common problem. I was particularly excited about the potential for easy bore cleaning and protection in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at an outdoor range during a somewhat humid afternoon. I used the Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs on my AR-15, my 12-gauge shotgun, and my carry pistol. The application was straightforward; I simply wiped down all exposed metal surfaces.
The cloth effectively removed gunpowder residue and left a thin, protective coating. Even after handling the firearms extensively, they remained relatively free of fingerprints and smudges. The humidity didn’t seem to affect the protective qualities either.
The convenience was a major plus. I easily ran a Tag Along through the bore of each firearm using a bore snake, ensuring consistent protection. No mixing of chemicals, no messy application, just wipe and go.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs, I can attest to their durability and reliability. I’ve used them in environments ranging from dusty desert ranges to damp coastal hunting trips. They continue to provide excellent rust protection.
I haven’t noticed any signs of corrosion on my firearms since incorporating the Tag Alongs into my cleaning routine. The cloths themselves hold up well; they don’t easily tear or fall apart during use. They’re also incredibly simple to store and transport.
Maintenance is a breeze; there is practically none required beyond the initial application. Compared to traditional oil-based protectants, the Barricade Tag Alongs are a significant improvement in terms of convenience and cleanliness. They’ve exceeded my expectations in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs are individual 5″ x 8″ cloths impregnated with Birchwood Casey’s Barricade Rust Protection formula. They come sealed in a foil packet for easy portability. The Manufacturer is Birchwood Casey.
The Gun Type is listed as Universal, making them suitable for any firearm. These specifications highlight the product’s primary function: convenient and universal rust protection. The small size and individual packaging make them ideal for carrying in a range bag, hunting pack, or even a pocket.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs excel at their primary task: preventing rust and corrosion on firearms. The pre-impregnated cloths deliver a consistent and even application of Barricade Rust Protection. The result is a durable, protective barrier against moisture, fingerprints, and other corrosive elements.
The Tag Alongs are undeniably effective at preventing rust. They also offer a degree of cleaning power, removing gunpowder residue and other debris. The primary weakness, if any, is that they don’t offer the deep cleaning capabilities of dedicated solvents.
They meet and exceed my expectations for a portable rust preventative. The ease of use and effective protection are well worth the cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and practical. The foil packet is easy to open, and the cloth is the perfect size for wiping down firearms. The individual packaging eliminates the mess and waste associated with traditional oil bottles or spray cans.
The cloths are comfortable to use. They don’t leave a sticky residue on your hands. The individual packaging is a significant ergonomic advantage.
Durability & Maintenance
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs themselves are designed for single use, but their protective effect lasts for a considerable amount of time. The Barricade formula provides long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion. Regular application is recommended, especially in humid or harsh environments.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. Simply wipe down your firearm with a Tag Along and allow it to dry. The ease of maintenance makes them an attractive option for busy shooters and hunters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs are not designed for customization. Their primary function is rust prevention. They are compatible with virtually all firearms and cleaning tools.
While there are no specific accessories designed for use with the Tag Alongs, they can be used in conjunction with bore snakes, cleaning rods, and other standard firearm cleaning equipment. They are a versatile addition to any gun cleaning kit.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs
Pros
- Extremely convenient, individual packaging perfect for range bags and hunting packs.
- Effective rust protection, prevents corrosion in diverse environmental conditions.
- Easy to use, simple wipe-down application with no mess.
- Universal application, safe for use on all firearms.
- Provides light cleaning, removes gunpowder residue and other debris.
Cons
- Single-use design, creates some waste.
- Not a substitute for deep cleaning with solvents.
Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs?
The Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs are perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who owns firearms. They are particularly well-suited for individuals who value convenience and portability. Those who live in humid climates or frequently expose their firearms to harsh conditions will also benefit greatly from the added rust protection.
Those who prefer traditional cleaning methods with solvents and brushes may find them less appealing. They are a rust preventative, not a comprehensive cleaning solution. Owners who want to perform very deep cleaning may wish to use this product after their usual cleaning procedures.
A must-have accessory is a quality bore snake for effective bore cleaning in conjunction with the Tag Alongs. Also, it can be helpful to use in combination with Birchwood Casey Gun Scrubber for deep cleaning.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs
Overall, the Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs are an excellent product for anyone looking for a convenient and effective way to protect their firearms from rust and corrosion. The individual packaging makes them incredibly easy to carry and use. The Barricade formula provides long-lasting protection in a variety of environmental conditions.
At $16.99, the price is justified by the convenience and effectiveness of the product. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, knowing that your firearms are protected from rust. Considering the cost of firearm replacement, this protection is a sound investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Birchwood Casey Barricade Tag Alongs to any gun owner. They are a valuable addition to any cleaning kit. Don’t let rust ruin your valuable firearms; grab a pack of Barricade Tag Alongs and keep them protected!