ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber Review

Table of Contents

First Thoughts on the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber

Cleaning firearms is a necessary evil, and finding the right tools can be a frustrating process. For years, I’ve relied on a hodgepodge of brushes, patches, and makeshift cleaning solutions to keep my .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and 9mm pistols in top condition. Then, I discovered the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber, promising a better bore seal and more effective cleaning.

What drew me to the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber was the promise of a superior clean, especially in the lands and grooves. I was looking for a tool that would consistently deliver a deep, thorough clean, minimizing the risk of fouling-related issues.

Upon opening the small package, the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber appeared simple but well-made. The brass material felt solid, and the threading looked clean and precise. Compared to some generic jags I’ve used, the ProSmith version appeared to have a more pronounced, almost aggressive, design intended for better patch contact.

I considered other options, including bore snakes and more expensive, multi-piece cleaning rod kits. However, the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber stood out due to its affordability and the promise of a perfect bore seal, which some bore snakes struggle to achieve. The low price of $3.49 made it a no-brainer to try.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if this simple tool could truly live up to the claim of maximum cleaning power.

Real-World Testing: Putting ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber at my local shooting range after a day of putting my Smith & Wesson Model 686 (.357 Magnum) through its paces. The lighting was good, and I had a stable bench to work on. I used a standard CLP (Clean, Lubricate, Protect) solvent.

The jag threaded easily onto my existing cleaning rod. Patching it was simple; I used square cotton patches and snipped off the corners for a snug but not overly tight fit. Pushing the jag through the bore felt noticeably smoother than with my old, worn-out jag. It was as if the patch was making full contact with every surface inside the barrel. No issues presented themselves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber on my .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and 9mm pistols, I can confidently say it’s a worthwhile addition to my cleaning kit. The jag holds up well to repeated use. I’ve noticed no signs of wear or deformation on the brass, even after running it through bores with varying degrees of fouling.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is all it takes to keep the jag in good condition. Compared to my previous jag, which often left residue behind, the ProSmith Jag consistently delivers a cleaner bore with fewer passes. The ProSmith Jag has outperformed my previous jag.

Breaking Down the Features of ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber

Specifications

Caliber/Gauge: .357/.38/9mm. This covers a wide range of popular handgun calibers, making it a versatile tool for many gun owners.
Thread: Industry standard 8-32 male thread. This ensures compatibility with most standard cleaning rods, which simplifies the cleaning process.
Material: Brass. Brass is a soft metal that’s less likely to damage the steel of the barrel, ensuring safe and effective cleaning.

Performance & Functionality

The ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber excels at effectively cleaning handgun barrels. Its design ensures a tight patch fit, which maximizes contact with the bore and removes fouling more effectively than looser-fitting alternatives. The only potential downside is that finding the perfect patch size might require a little trial and error.

The ProSmith Jag meets my expectations. It is a simple, effective tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber is simple in design, focusing on functionality rather than elaborate aesthetics. The brass construction feels durable and provides a good grip for attaching patches. There’s no real learning curve; anyone familiar with basic firearm cleaning will find it easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Made from brass, the ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber is designed to last through numerous cleaning sessions. Brass is resistant to corrosion, and the simple design minimizes potential failure points. Maintenance is minimal; just wipe it clean after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber itself doesn’t come with accessories, being a simple cleaning implement. Its primary function is to interface with standard cleaning rods and patches. It is compatible with any 8-32 threaded cleaning rod.

Pros and Cons of ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber

Pros

Excellent bore seal: The ProSmith Jag provides a tight fit for cleaning patches, maximizing contact and cleaning effectiveness.
Durable brass construction: Brass is a soft metal that won’t damage the firearm’s barrel.
Affordable price: At just $3.49, it’s a budget-friendly addition to any cleaning kit.
Versatile caliber compatibility: Works with .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and 9mm handguns.
Easy to use: Simple design with no learning curve.

Cons

Patch size can be tricky: Finding the perfect patch size may require some trial and error.
Basic design: It’s a simple tool with no extra features.

Who Should Buy ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber?

The ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber is perfect for handgun owners who want a simple, effective, and affordable way to clean their firearms. This tool is ideal for range shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who prioritizes firearm maintenance.

Those who prefer all-in-one cleaning solutions like bore snakes might skip this product. Those requiring more specialized cleaning tools for unique firearms will also look elsewhere.

Conclusion on ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber

The ProSmith Jags .38/.357/9mm Caliber is a no-frills cleaning tool that delivers on its promise of maximum cleaning power. For $3.49, the price is absolutely justified.

I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to clean their .38 Special, .357 Magnum, or 9mm handguns. It’s a simple tool that does its job well. Add this tool to your kit. You won’t be disappointed.