First Thoughts on the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth promises a simple yet effective solution to a common problem for firearms enthusiasts: stubborn lead and carbon fouling. Made by Kleen-Bore, a name synonymous with gun cleaning products, this cloth aims to make the tedious task of removing residue easier. The promise is to remove even burn rings from cylinders and stainless steel, making it a potentially valuable tool for any gun owner.
My interest in the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth stemmed from years spent scrubbing away at lead deposits on my revolvers and stainless steel pistols. I was hoping to find a less abrasive, quicker solution than traditional solvents and brushes. Opening the package, the cloth felt slightly oily and had a distinct chemical odor, both expected given its intended use.
Compared to using traditional bore brushes and solvents, this cloth presented itself as a potential time-saver and gentler cleaning method. I considered bore snakes and other solvent-soaked patches, but the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth’s claim of being effective on stainless steel without causing damage was a deciding factor. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; hoping it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth after a range session where I fired approximately 200 rounds through my .357 Magnum revolver and 100 rounds through my stainless steel 1911. I used the cloth to clean the cylinder face of the revolver, which had significant burn rings and lead splatter. The cleaning process itself was straightforward.
I simply wiped the affected areas with the cloth, applying moderate pressure. Surprisingly, the cloth quickly started lifting the carbon and lead residue. The burn rings on the cylinder face began to fade, and the stainless steel 1911’s slide became noticeably cleaner. There was a slight learning curve in determining the right amount of pressure to apply for optimal cleaning, but it was minimal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, cleaning my firearms after each range visit, the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth has proven to be a reliable addition to my cleaning kit. It holds up surprisingly well, showing only minor discoloration after multiple uses. The cloth still feels effective. I store the cloth in a sealed plastic bag to prevent it from drying out, which seems to be effective.
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth demonstrates its durability well, although the edges have started to fray slightly. The cleaning effectiveness hasn’t diminished noticeably with repeated use. Compared to my previous cleaning routine involving multiple brushes and solvents, the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth offers a significantly faster and less messy process.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is a chemically treated cloth specifically designed for removing lead and carbon fouling from firearms. It measures 10″ x 10″, providing a decent surface area for cleaning various gun parts. Each package contains one cloth. The cloth is specifically not intended for use on blued or case-hardened finishes.
The 10″ x 10″ size is sufficient for cleaning multiple firearms before needing to be replaced. The chemical treatment is what truly sets it apart, enabling it to lift lead and carbon deposits more effectively than a dry cloth. Knowing that it is unsuitable for blued finishes is critical, as it can damage the finish.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth excels at quickly removing lead and carbon fouling from stainless steel surfaces. It’s particularly effective on cylinder faces, slides, and other areas prone to heavy residue buildup. While it requires some elbow grease for heavily fouled areas, it significantly reduces cleaning time compared to traditional methods. The cloth performs exactly as advertised, making firearm maintenance easier and more efficient.
Its strength lies in its ability to swiftly remove lead and carbon. A potential weakness is its unsuitability for blued or case-hardened finishes, limiting its versatility. The cloth meets expectations for cleaning stainless steel firearms, but its limited application might be a drawback for some users.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth has a simple design, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. It is a relatively thin cloth, making it easy to manipulate and fold for cleaning tight spaces. The cloth feels slightly oily to the touch. The lack of bulk makes it easy to store and carry in a range bag or cleaning kit.
The cloth is user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. The build quality seems adequate for its purpose. The edges may fray with extensive use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is designed to last through multiple cleaning sessions before needing replacement. Proper storage in an airtight container helps prevent it from drying out and extending its lifespan. There is no specific maintenance required other than proper storage. Expect to replace the cloth after it becomes heavily soiled or loses its effectiveness.
The cloth’s lifespan depends heavily on the frequency and intensity of use. Airtight storage is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Regular inspection for excessive soiling will help determine when a replacement is necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is a standalone product and does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. However, it pairs well with other gun cleaning supplies like bore brushes and solvents for a comprehensive cleaning routine. Compatibility with other cleaning products enhances its overall utility, even though the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is effective on its own.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth
Pros
- Effectively removes lead and carbon fouling from stainless steel surfaces.
- Reduces cleaning time compared to traditional methods.
- Easy to use with minimal learning curve.
- Portable and convenient for use at the range or in the field.
- Relatively inexpensive making it an accessible cleaning solution.
Cons
- Not suitable for blued or case-hardened finishes.
- Cloth may fray with repeated use.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth?
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is perfect for firearm owners who primarily shoot stainless steel handguns or revolvers and need an efficient way to remove lead and carbon fouling. It is especially useful for competitive shooters who need to clean their firearms quickly between stages. The cloth is great for anyone seeking a quicker and less abrasive cleaning solution.
Those who primarily own firearms with blued or case-hardened finishes should skip this product due to the risk of damaging the finish. Owners who prefer all-in-one cleaning solutions might prefer bore snakes that clean and lubricate simultaneously. A good pair of nitrile gloves is a must-have accessory when using the cloth to protect your hands from the chemicals.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth
The Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth is a worthwhile addition to any gun owner’s cleaning kit, provided they primarily work with stainless steel firearms. It effectively removes lead and carbon fouling, saving time and effort compared to traditional cleaning methods. At $7.49, the price is justified for the convenience and effectiveness it offers.
I would personally recommend the Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth to anyone looking for a faster, easier way to clean their stainless steel firearms. If you’re tired of scrubbing away at stubborn fouling, give this cloth a try; you might be pleasantly surprised. Grab a Kleen-Bore Lead Away Gun Cloth and experience the difference it makes in your cleaning routine!