First Thoughts on the Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips
As a tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless cleaning solutions come and go. The Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips promised a convenient, reusable alternative to traditional patches, particularly for hard-to-reach areas. This peaked my interest, especially regarding their claim of functioning as an Empty Chamber Indicator (ECI).
I was tired of fumbling with patches and jag heads during range days, especially with my Ruger 10/22. Cleaning that rifle always felt like a chore. I had been using standard bore snakes and patch kits, finding bore snakes difficult to clean themselves, and patches cumbersome and wasteful.
Upon receiving the package, my first impression was positive; the packaging was simple but functional. The whips themselves felt surprisingly sturdy for being a flexible pull-through design. The translucent material added to the intrigue, aligning with the ECI feature. I was picking these over bore snakes to avoid having to clean the snake itself, and patches as they are wasteful. My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic, hoping they lived up to their claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local outdoor range after a particularly dusty day of running drills with my AR-15. Conditions were far from ideal. The rifle had seen approximately 300 rounds, leaving the bore fouled with carbon and powder residue.
The Swab-its whip proved remarkably easy to use. The pull-through design made quick work of the bore, drawing solvent and debris out efficiently. I was surprised by how much gunk the first pass removed. It was far less fiddly than threading patches onto a jag.
I did note that it took a little extra force to pull the whip through the first time, due to the built up residue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, cleaning both my AR-15 and Ruger 10/22, the Swab-its bore-whips have held up remarkably well. I have cleaned each rifle about 4 times with the same whip. There are no signs of fraying or deterioration in the material.
Cleaning them is also a breeze. A quick rinse with warm, soapy water gets them ready for the next use. Compared to previous experiences with bore snakes that require extensive cleaning, these are a welcome improvement.
They have easily outperformed my expectations regarding durability and ease of maintenance. These bore whips have exceeded the lifespan of patches, as promised.
Breaking Down the Features of Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips
Specifications
The Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips are specifically designed for .22 caliber and 5.56mm firearms. Each bag contains three individual bore-whips. Each tip is designed for multiple uses, and are washable and reusable.
The translucent whip material allows for visual confirmation of an empty chamber. The lint-free and fiber-free construction prevents residue buildup in the bore. All of these features enhance the cleaning process and overall rifle maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of these bore-whips is to effectively clean and lubricate the bore of a firearm. They accomplish this with surprising efficiency. The tight fit ensures thorough cleaning, and their reusability makes them a cost-effective solution.
The whips excel at reaching tight spaces. The flexible design makes them ideal for firearms like the Ruger 10/22 and Mark III. They definitely meet expectations, providing a superior cleaning experience compared to traditional methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swab-its bore-whips are constructed from a durable, yet flexible polymer material. The pull-through design is simple and intuitive to use. The weight is negligible, making them an excellent addition to any range bag.
There’s virtually no learning curve. Even a novice shooter can quickly master their use. The design prioritizes ease of use and effectiveness.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust polymer construction suggests a long lifespan. Regular cleaning with soap and water is all that’s needed to maintain them. Their resistance to fraying and deterioration ensures continued performance.
They are easy to clean with simple cleaning supplies. These wipes are built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips themselves don’t have many customization options, but their functionality complements other cleaning accessories. They pair well with bore solvents, lubricants, and cleaning brushes. Compatibility with standard cleaning solutions is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips
Pros
- Reusable and Washable: Significantly reduces waste and saves money compared to traditional patches.
- Effective Cleaning: The tight fit ensures thorough removal of carbon and fouling.
- Easy to Use: The pull-through design simplifies the cleaning process.
- Empty Chamber Indicator (ECI): The translucent material provides visual confirmation of an empty chamber, enhancing safety.
- Durable Construction: The polymer material holds up well to repeated use.
Cons
- Initial Resistance: Can require slightly more force to pull through heavily fouled bores initially.
- Solvent Capacity: Might require multiple passes for extremely dirty firearms, as it holds less solvent than a heavily saturated patch.
Who Should Buy Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips?
The Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips are perfect for anyone who owns a .22 caliber or 5.56mm firearm, especially those who value convenience and cost-effectiveness. They are ideal for frequent shooters, range enthusiasts, and anyone looking to simplify their cleaning routine. Anyone who regularly cleans Ruger 10/22s would appreciate these.
Those who rely on extremely aggressive solvents or need absolute, mirror-shine bore cleaning may find traditional patches more suitable. A must-have accessory would be a quality bore solvent.
Conclusion on Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips
Overall, the Swab-its .22cal/5.56mm Pull-Thru Gun Cleaning Bore-whips are a worthwhile investment for any firearm owner. At $10.49 for a pack of three, they offer excellent value, especially considering their reusability and effectiveness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend them. Their ease of use, durability, and convenient design make them a valuable addition to any cleaning kit. Ditch the patches and simplify your cleaning routine.