First Thoughts on the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush, manufactured by ProSmith, promises a simple solution to a crucial task: maintaining the bore of your .17 caliber firearms. Its claim is straightforward – effective removal of contaminants without damaging the steel. For anyone who values the longevity and accuracy of their rifles, a reliable bore brush is non-negotiable.
My journey to the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush was born out of frustration. I was tired of using inferior brushes that either fell apart quickly or didn’t adequately clean the bore of my .17 HMR rifle. Upon unboxing, the brush felt solid, and the bronze bristles appeared well-secured.
I’ve used other bore brushes in the past, notably those included in generic cleaning kits and a more expensive nylon brush from a competing brand. I chose the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush because of its price point and the generally positive reputation of bronze brushes for removing stubborn fouling. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a no-frills, functional tool.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush was at my local shooting range. I had just finished a 100-round session with my .17 HMR, so the barrel was definitely in need of a thorough cleaning. Using the brush with a compatible cleaning rod, I applied a solvent and ran the brush through the bore several times.
The brush moved smoothly through the barrel, and I could feel it engaging with the fouling. After a few passes, the patches came out noticeably cleaner. There weren’t any immediate issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple range trips, the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush has held up remarkably well. The bristles are still firmly attached, and the brush hasn’t shown any signs of significant wear and tear. Cleaning the brush itself is simple; a quick scrub with solvent and a wipe-down is all it takes.
Compared to previous brushes I’ve used, the ProSmith brush outperforms the cheap, included-in-kit options by a significant margin, maintaining its shape and effectiveness over repeated uses. While I haven’t noticed a drastic difference compared to the higher-priced nylon brush in terms of immediate cleaning power, the bronze brush seems more effective at removing stubborn copper fouling over time. Its durability so far has been a pleasant surprise.
Breaking Down the Features of ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush
Specifications
- The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush is specifically designed for use with .17 caliber firearms. This ensures a proper fit and optimal cleaning performance.
- It features an 8-32 male thread. This is a standard thread size for many cleaning rods, increasing its compatibility.
- The bristles are made of bronze. Bronze is effective at removing fouling without scratching the steel of the barrel.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the brush’s ability to effectively and safely clean a .17 caliber firearm. The proper fit ensures thorough cleaning, while the bronze material prevents damage to the bore. The standard thread makes it easy to use with existing cleaning equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush performs its intended job effectively. It removes carbon fouling and copper residue from the bore of a .17 caliber rifle with relative ease.
Its primary strength is its ability to loosen and remove stubborn fouling that other brushes might miss. A minor weakness could be that bronze brushes, while effective, require more frequent cleaning themselves to prevent buildup from re-depositing in the bore. It definitely meets expectations, offering a reliable and affordable cleaning solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush has a simple, functional design. The build quality is decent for the price, with the bronze bristles firmly attached to the core.
It is a lightweight tool that is easy to maneuver within the bore. There is no learning curve; it attaches to a standard cleaning rod and is immediately ready for use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush is reasonably durable for its price point. With proper care and cleaning, it should last for a significant number of cleaning sessions.
Maintaining the brush is straightforward. After each use, it’s essential to clean the brush with solvent to remove any accumulated fouling and prevent buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush doesn’t come with any accessories. Its function is solely to be attached to a compatible cleaning rod (not included).
Because it uses a standard 8-32 male thread, it is compatible with a wide variety of cleaning rods and handles from different brands. This makes it a versatile addition to any gun cleaning kit.
Pros and Cons of ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush
Pros
- Effectively removes stubborn fouling from .17 caliber bores.
- Bronze bristles will not harm the steel of the barrel.
- Affordable price point at only $2.49.
- Standard 8-32 male thread ensures compatibility with most cleaning rods.
- Durable construction for extended use.
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent re-deposition of fouling.
- Cleaning rod not included.
Who Should Buy ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush?
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush is perfect for anyone who owns a .17 caliber firearm and wants to maintain its accuracy and longevity. This includes target shooters, varmint hunters, and recreational shooters who value proper gun maintenance.
Anyone looking for a complete cleaning kit or a “one-and-done” solution should skip this product, as it’s just the brush itself and requires a compatible cleaning rod and solvent. Additional accessories might include a bore guide for even more precise cleaning.
Conclusion on ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush
The ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush is a no-frills, effective tool for cleaning the bore of your .17 caliber firearm. For a mere $2.49, it provides a reliable and durable cleaning solution that surpasses cheaper alternatives.
The price is definitely justified; you’re getting a quality product that will protect your investment in your firearm. I would absolutely recommend the ProSmith .17 Caliber Bronze Brush to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to maintain their .17 caliber rifle. Take care of your firearms, and they will take care of you – add this brush to your cleaning kit today!