PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA Review

First Thoughts on the PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA

The PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA is a deceptively simple product, a humble cotton swab designed for firearm cleaning. Pro-Shot Products aims to provide shooters with the essential tools for maintaining their firearms, and this mop appears to be a core component of that mission. My initial reaction was one of curiosity – can something so basic really make a difference in the upkeep of my shotguns?

I found myself needing this particular cleaning mop when I started noticing inconsistent patterns with my older shotguns. Fouling, especially lead residue, was becoming a real issue. I had tried various brushes and solvents, but the buildup in the bore, especially in the forcing cone area, was proving stubbornly resistant. My hope was that this mop, combined with a good solvent, would provide the necessary scrubbing action to effectively remove the stubborn residue.

Upon unboxing, the PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA felt surprisingly robust. The cotton appeared tightly wound and securely attached to the core. It seemed like a well-made product, ready to tackle some serious bore cleaning. At $3.49, the price point is definitely attractive.

Compared to generic cotton swabs, which often leave fibers behind and lack the necessary rigidity for thorough cleaning, the PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA seems to be a significant upgrade. I have also used bore snakes in the past, but they sometimes struggle with heavy fouling. This mop offers a more targeted and aggressive cleaning action.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The quality seemed good, but the real test would be its performance in the field, or rather, on the range and in the cleaning room. I was hoping for a noticeable improvement in bore cleanliness and, ultimately, in the performance of my shotguns.

Real-World Testing: Putting PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA immediately after a day at the sporting clays range. My 12-gauge and 16-gauge shotguns were both heavily fouled with powder residue and plastic wad debris. I applied a generous amount of bore solvent to the mop and ran it through each barrel several times.

The mop worked exceptionally well, grabbing a significant amount of grime with each pass. Even in the tighter 16-gauge bore, the mop provided a snug fit, ensuring thorough cleaning. The cotton held up remarkably well, showing no signs of shredding or unraveling, even after repeated use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA on a regular basis, I can confidently say that it has become an indispensable part of my cleaning kit. It continues to effectively remove fouling from my shotgun bores. There is minimal wear and tear.

The cotton head remains securely attached, and the mop cleans easily with a bit of solvent and a paper towel. I’ve found it particularly effective at removing stubborn plastic wad residue that other cleaning methods often miss. It outperforms my previous cleaning routine by a significant margin.

Breaking Down the Features of PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA

Specifications

• Type: Cotton Swab. This ensures compatibility with various cleaning solvents and provides a gentle yet effective scrubbing action.
• Size: 16/12/10 ga. Designed to fit 16, 12, and 10 gauge shotgun bores, offering versatility for owners of multiple shotguns.
• Quantity: 1. Each purchase includes one mop, allowing users to replenish their cleaning supplies as needed.
• Manufacturer: Pro-Shot Products. A known manufacturer that specializes in gun cleaning tools.

Performance & Functionality

The PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA excels at its primary function: cleaning shotgun bores. It effectively removes powder residue, plastic wad debris, and lead fouling, leaving the bore clean and smooth. Its ability to reach and clean the forcing cone area is particularly noteworthy.

The mop’s design allows for even distribution of cleaning solvents, maximizing their effectiveness. One potential improvement would be offering a version with a slightly more abrasive cotton blend for extremely stubborn fouling. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a shotgun bore cleaning tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA boasts a simple yet effective design. The cotton head is tightly wound and securely attached to a durable core. The mop is lightweight and easy to handle. There is no learning curve; it is ready to use straight out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

The PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA is surprisingly durable for a cotton swab. With proper care and cleaning after each use, the mop should last for a considerable amount of time. Maintenance is simple: just rinse the mop with solvent and wipe it clean with a paper towel after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA itself does not have accessories, but it is designed to be used with standard shotgun cleaning rods and bore solvents. It is compatible with most popular brands of cleaning rods. Pairing this mop with a high-quality bore solvent is essential for optimal cleaning performance.

Pros and Cons of PRO-SHOT MOP 16/12/10GA