Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit Review

First Impressions of Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit

Maintaining firearms isn’t just about keeping them clean; it’s about preserving their finish and value. Many of us take pride in keeping our firearms in pristine condition. Bluing and blackening kits are essential for this, but often, the included applicators are either low quality or quickly used up. That’s where the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit comes in, promising to provide a resupply of necessary tools for achieving a professional finish.

I found myself constantly needing to replace worn-out applicators when touching up some older hunting rifles, particularly after a wet pheasant season left some minor surface rust. The foam applicators in many bluing kits degrade quickly, and the included cloths often aren’t lint-free enough, causing imperfections in the finish. I hoped this kit would provide a more durable and reliable solution for these common issues.

Upon opening the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit, I was immediately struck by the simplicity and apparent quality of the components. The inclusion of microfiber cloths, steel wool, scour pads, and various applicators suggested a well-rounded approach to gun finishing. It felt like a curated selection designed to cover different stages of the bluing or blackening process.

Compared to buying generic applicators and cloths from a hardware store, this kit seemed specifically tailored for firearm finishing. Products like the Birchwood Casey Perma Blue Kit offer similar solutions, but rarely provide enough material for multiple applications, and the quality isn’t always consistent. This kit seemed to offer a more controlled and higher-quality approach than those alternatives.

I was initially optimistic. The materials appeared to be of good quality and the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit offered a comprehensive solution for re-bluing and blackening tasks.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was on an old Winchester Model 94 that had seen better days. The receiver had some noticeable wear spots, so I decided to use the bluing touch-up to restore its original finish. I started by degreasing the area, and then I used one of the applicators from the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit to apply the bluing solution.

The applicator provided even coverage, and the microfiber cloth was perfect for wiping away excess solution without leaving any lint. The process was straightforward, and the initial results were promising. However, I noticed the applicator started to slightly disintegrate after about 30 minutes of use with the bluing solution.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use on various firearms, the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit has held up reasonably well. The microfiber cloths remain lint-free and effective for polishing and cleaning. However, the applicators do show signs of wear after repeated use with harsh chemicals.

The steel wool is fine for removing light rust, but it’s essential to use it cautiously to avoid scratching the bluing. Cleaning the applicators is difficult, especially after they’ve been used with bluing solutions. They tend to harden, reducing their effectiveness.

Compared to using disposable cotton swabs or shop rags, the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit offers a significant improvement in terms of finish quality. However, the limited lifespan of the applicators is a drawback. I have found myself needing to replace the applicators far more often than I initially expected.

Breaking Down the Features of Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit

Specifications

The Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit includes:

• Several applicators, designed for applying bluing and blackening solutions evenly.
• A microfiber cloth, intended for wiping and polishing firearms without leaving lint.
• Steel wool, aimed at removing light rust and preparing surfaces for treatment.
• Scour pads, used for cleaning and surface preparation.

These specifications highlight the kit’s focus on providing the necessary tools for achieving a professional finish. The quality of the materials is crucial for avoiding imperfections and ensuring a consistent result. The inclusion of different materials allows for addressing various stages of the finishing process, from rust removal to polishing.

Performance & Functionality

The Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit generally performs its job well. The applicators allow for even application of bluing and blackening solutions, while the microfiber cloth effectively removes excess solution without leaving lint. The steel wool is useful for removing light rust, but its abrasive nature requires careful handling.

The applicators are the weakest link, as they tend to degrade after prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals. The microfiber cloth and steel wool, however, are durable and effective. The kit mostly meets expectations for basic firearm finishing tasks, but the durability of the applicators could be improved.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit is designed with simplicity in mind. The materials are lightweight and easy to handle, making the application process comfortable. There is minimal learning curve; even beginners can use the kit effectively with basic instructions.

The build quality of the applicators could be better, as they tend to fall apart after repeated use. The microfiber cloth is of good quality and feels durable. The steel wool is standard and performs as expected.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit varies depending on the component. The microfiber cloth is the most durable and can last for many uses with proper cleaning. The steel wool also lasts a reasonable amount of time, though it may require replacement depending on the severity of the rust removal tasks.

The applicators are the least durable and require frequent replacement. Cleaning the applicators is difficult, as the chemicals tend to harden and degrade the foam. Regular replacement of the applicators is necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit is primarily a resupply kit and doesn’t offer significant customization options. It is designed to complement existing bluing or blackening kits, providing the necessary applicators and materials for achieving a professional finish. The kit is compatible with most bluing and blackening solutions on the market, making it a versatile addition to any gun maintenance setup.

The lack of included chemicals means users need to source their bluing or blackening solutions separately. This allows for flexibility in choosing the specific chemicals that best suit their needs.

Pros and Cons of Shooter’s Choice Gun Application Accessory Kit