First Thoughts on the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze
For years, I’ve preached the gospel of firearm maintenance. A clean gun is a happy gun, and a happy gun is a reliable gun. While I have a dedicated cleaning station at home, keeping my sidearms clean in the field has always been a bit of a juggling act. I’ve tried various compact kits, but they always seemed to lack something – a crucial brush, a rod section that’s too short, or a case that falls apart at the seams. That’s why I was intrigued by the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze. Could this unassuming little kit finally be the answer to my on-the-go cleaning prayers?
My need was simple: a truly portable, self-contained cleaning kit for my .40, 10mm, and .41 caliber handguns. Something I could toss in my range bag, backpack, or even a larger pocket without worry. When I saw the Kleen-Bore kit boasted a self-storing handle and compatibility with multiple calibers, I was willing to give it a shot.
Upon unboxing, the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze felt surprisingly solid. The plastic case, while not luxurious, seemed durable enough for its intended purpose. Compared to some flimsy, no-name kits I’ve encountered, this felt like a step up. I’ve previously relied on larger Otis Technology kits and smaller Hoppe’s Boresnake solutions. The Otis kits are comprehensive but bulky, while the Boresnakes, while compact, don’t always provide the aggressive cleaning needed after a long range session. The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze aims to strike a balance between portability and cleaning power.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The compact design was appealing, and the components felt reasonably well-made. Was I blown away? Not initially, but I was definitely curious to see how it would perform in the field. It looked far more promising than the last generic kit I bought on clearance that promptly disintegrated after its first use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze was at an outdoor shooting range. It was a typical day – slightly windy with the ever-present threat of dust kicking up. I primarily used my Glock 20 (10mm) and a Sig Sauer P229 (.40 S&W) that day.
The range session left both pistols noticeably dirtier than usual. Upon using the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze, I found the two-section rod design to be adequate for cleaning the Glock’s barrel. But the real surprise was how efficiently the phosphor bronze brush cut through the carbon buildup in both barrels. The compact nature of the kit did mean more passes were needed, but the end result was a noticeably cleaner bore.
The only slight hiccup was the initial assembly of the cleaning rod. Getting the two sections threaded together securely took a moment, but it was a minor issue. I needed to adjust to the shorter rod length, as I’m used to using full-length cleaning rods, but it performed well.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze has proven to be surprisingly durable. I’ve used it on everything from quick cleanings after a light range session to more thorough scrubbing after training days. The plastic case has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or breaking, even after being tossed around in my range bag.
The bronze brush still cleans effectively, and the cotton mop continues to do its job of soaking up solvent and removing residue. Maintenance is simple. I just wipe down the rod sections after each use and occasionally clean the brush with a solvent. So far, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.
Compared to my previous experiences with other compact cleaning kits, the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze definitely outperforms them in terms of durability and cleaning effectiveness. While it’s not a replacement for a full-sized cleaning kit for deep cleaning at home, it’s an excellent option for maintaining my handguns in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze is designed for .40, .41, and 10mm handguns. The kit consists of a two-section cleaning rod, a phosphor bronze brush, a cotton mop, a jag, and a storage handle that doubles as a case. The assembled rod reaches a maximum length of 8.37 inches.
The first rod section is designed for barrels up to 5 inches, accommodating most semi-automatic pistols. The thread pattern is #8-32, making it compatible with other Kleen-Bore handgun accessories. The case material is plastic, and the kit includes a rod, brush, mop, and jag. These specifications are crucial for ensuring compatibility with my handguns and for providing effective cleaning in a portable package.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze performs its job admirably. The bronze brush effectively removes carbon fouling, and the cotton mop does a decent job of absorbing cleaning solvents. The jag helps with pushing patches through the barrel for a final clean.
While the shorter rod requires more passes compared to a full-length rod, it gets the job done. A major strength is the portability. The fact that everything fits neatly into the handle is a huge plus. One weakness is that it would be beneficial to have a small bottle for solvent included. Overall, it meets expectations as a compact, field-cleaning kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze has a simple, functional design. The plastic handle is easy to grip, and the components are lightweight and easy to handle. The build quality is acceptable for the price.
There’s no real learning curve. It’s very intuitive to use. The only slight inconvenience is assembling the cleaning rod sections.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze seem durable enough for regular use. With proper care, it should last for a reasonable amount of time. Maintenance is straightforward.
Simply cleaning the components after each use is sufficient. The plastic case is easy to wipe down.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit comes with the basic necessities: a cleaning rod, bronze brush, cotton mop, and jag. The #8-32 thread pattern allows for using other Kleen-Bore accessories. The product doesn’t offer significant customization options beyond swapping out the brush or mop for different types.
However, the compatibility with the Kleen-Bore line opens some doors. It doesn’t directly support accessories from other brands, but adapters exist if needed.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze
Pros
- Extremely portable and compact design: The self-storing handle makes it easy to carry in a range bag or backpack.
- Effective cleaning with phosphor bronze brush: The brush effectively removes carbon fouling from the barrel.
- Durable plastic case: The case protects the components and holds up well to regular use.
- Affordable price point: At $16.49, it’s an excellent value for a field-cleaning kit.
- Compatibility with Kleen-Bore accessories: The #8-32 thread allows for using other Kleen-Bore cleaning tools.
Cons
- The two-section rod requires more passes than a full-length rod.
- No solvent is included, requiring users to carry it separately.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze?
The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze is perfect for range shooters who want a compact and affordable way to clean their .40, 10mm, and .41 caliber handguns in the field. It’s also suitable for hunters or anyone who needs a portable cleaning kit for maintaining their sidearms while on the go.
Those who prefer a full-length cleaning rod or require a kit with more specialized tools should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a small bottle of quality gun solvent to use in conjunction with the kit.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze
The Kleen-Bore PocKit Handgun Set 40,41,10mm Handgun Bronze is a solid, affordable option for anyone needing a compact field-cleaning kit. While it’s not a replacement for a full-sized cleaning kit, it’s an excellent tool for maintaining handguns at the range or in the field.
The price is definitely justified, given its portability, effectiveness, and durability. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a convenient way to keep their handguns clean on the go. Pick one up. Keep your firearms in top condition, and happy shooting!