First Thoughts on the Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon
The Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon promises a comprehensive cleaning solution for the often-overlooked .17 caliber rifles. These rifles, known for their accuracy and low recoil, demand precision maintenance, and a dedicated cleaning kit is essential. Kleen-Bore aims to provide just that, packaging essential tools and supplies into a single, portable kit.
My need for this kit arose from a growing frustration with using generic cleaning tools on my .17 HMR rifle. Standard bore brushes and patches often felt ill-suited for the smaller bore, leading to inefficient cleaning and a lingering fear of damaging the delicate rifling. This Kleen-Bore kit was a targeted solution to address this specific need.
Upon unboxing, the kit’s contents are neatly arranged in a polypropylene case. The case itself feels durable enough for storage and transport. The rigid black rod with a swivel handle immediately caught my eye, suggesting a more robust cleaning experience compared to flimsy, multi-piece rods.
While I considered separate purchases of individual bore brushes, solvent, and patches, the all-in-one convenience of the Kleen-Bore kit ultimately won me over. Kits like the Otis Technology Ripcord or bore snakes offer alternative cleaning methods, but I prefer the traditional rod and brush approach for thorough cleaning. My initial reaction was positive, appreciating the compact organization and promise of a specialized cleaning solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon came after a day at the range with my .17 HMR. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the kit’s effectiveness under normal conditions. I followed the instructions and utilized the phosphor bronze bore brush first, followed by the cotton mop, and finished with patches and BrekFree CLP.
The rigid rod and swivel handle made pushing the brush through the bore noticeably easier than with my previous setup. Even after a few rounds, the bore brush met resistance demonstrating effective cleaning. The nylon bristle brush also aided in action cleaning, removing excess residue and powder.
The one surprise after the first use was the quantity of the BrekFree CLP. The 2 oz bottle, while convenient for the kit, appears quite small for prolonged use. I might need to purchase a larger container down the line.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon, I’ve developed a solid understanding of its long-term performance. The components have held up well with regular use. The phosphor bronze brush shows minimal wear, and the rod remains straight and functional.
The polypropylene case has also proven to be more durable than I initially expected. It still securely holds all the kit’s components after multiple trips to the range and backcountry. Cleaning the tools themselves is straightforward; I simply wipe them down with a clean cloth after each use.
Compared to my previous experience with using generic cleaning tools, the Kleen-Bore kit has significantly improved the ease and effectiveness of cleaning my .17 HMR rifle. I feel more confident in maintaining the rifle’s accuracy and longevity. It provides a much better cleaning system than a standard universal cleaning kit.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon includes a rigid black rod with a swivel handle, designed for ease of use and effective cleaning. A barbed brass jag facilitates patch application. A double-ended nylon bristle brush aids in cleaning various rifle components.
It also includes a 2 oz bottle of BrekFree CLP, offering cleaning, lubrication, and protection in one product. The kit contains a .17 Cal phosphor bronze bore brush, specifically sized for .17 caliber rifles, and a .17 cotton mop for drying and applying protectants. A silicone cloth provides a convenient method for wiping down the rifle’s exterior, plus cotton cleaning patches.
The entire kit is housed in a durable polypropylene case for organized storage and transport. The thread pattern for attachments is #3-48, which is important to note for compatibility with other accessories. All these features are crucial for proper maintenance and extending the life of a .17 caliber rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon performs its job admirably. The phosphor bronze brush effectively removes fouling from the bore, maintaining accuracy. The cotton mop ensures a dry and protected bore, while the patches provide a final cleaning touch.
The primary strength lies in the kit’s completeness and the suitability of its components for .17 caliber rifles. The main weakness is the limited amount of BrekFree CLP, potentially requiring separate purchases. The kit certainly meets my expectations for a dedicated .17 caliber cleaning solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The rigid rod feels sturdy, while the polypropylene case offers adequate protection. The swivel handle enhances user comfort and control during cleaning.
The kit is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and no specialized knowledge. The organization within the case further simplifies the cleaning process. The small size of the kit also makes it easy to store and transport.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon should last for years. The brass jag and bronze brush are known for their durability. Simple cleaning and storage practices will ensure longevity.
Maintaining the kit is straightforward; cleaning the components after each use prevents buildup and corrosion. Replacing worn brushes and patches as needed is also crucial.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit itself is a self-contained package, minimizing the need for additional accessories. However, a bore light could be a helpful addition for inspecting the bore’s cleanliness. Aftermarket jags and mops with different materials could be considered for specialized cleaning needs.
While customization options are limited, the #3-48 thread pattern allows for compatibility with some universal cleaning attachments. Exploring different CLP brands or solvents might also enhance the cleaning process.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon
Pros
- Specifically designed for .17 caliber rifles, ensuring proper fit and cleaning.
- Complete kit includes essential tools and supplies in one organized case.
- Rigid rod and swivel handle provide enhanced control and ease of use.
- Durable components offer long-lasting performance with proper care.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for all .17 caliber rifle owners.
Cons
- Small quantity of BrekFree CLP may require separate purchases.
- Limited customization options compared to individual components.
- Polypropylene case is functional but not exceptionally robust.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon?
The Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon is perfect for .17 caliber rifle owners who prioritize proper maintenance and accuracy. This includes varmint hunters, target shooters, and plinkers who want a convenient and effective cleaning solution. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to extend the life of their rifle and maintain consistent performance.
Those who should skip this product might include individuals who already own a comprehensive set of cleaning tools or prefer using bore snakes exclusively. Also, if you require a larger quantity of cleaning solvent, purchasing individual components might be more cost-effective.
A bore light would be a must-have accessory for those wanting to ensure the bore is completely cleaned. Also, consider purchasing more BrekFree CLP for prolonged use.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon
The Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon provides a comprehensive and affordable solution for cleaning .17 caliber rifles. Its completeness, ease of use, and specialized components make it a valuable asset for any .17 rifle owner. While the quantity of CLP is limited, the overall value proposition is strong.
At $32.99, the price is easily justified by the convenience and effectiveness of the kit. Purchasing individual components would likely cost significantly more.
I would personally recommend the Kleen-Bore Classic Small Bore Kit .17 Cal Rifle Bronze, Nylon to anyone seeking a dedicated cleaning solution for their .17 caliber rifle. Invest in this kit today to ensure the long-term performance and accuracy of your firearm!