First Thoughts on the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle
The Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle promises a clean bore, free from copper, lead, plastic, and wax fouling. Developed by benchrest competitor Butch Fisher, it’s marketed as safe for both carbon and stainless steel barrels. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time at the range and in the field, maintaining my firearms in optimal condition is paramount. This cleaner piqued my interest due to its reputation for effectively removing stubborn fouling without harsh abrasives.
My search for the perfect bore cleaner stems from years of battling persistent copper buildup in my precision rifles. I needed something reliable, efficient, and gentle enough to prevent damage to the bore over time. The Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine claims to tackle these issues head-on.
Upon receiving the bottle, I immediately noted its compact size. The 4 oz. bottle seems like a practical amount for regular use without being wasteful. I appreciated the no-nonsense packaging; it’s clear the focus is on the product’s performance, not flashy marketing. Compared to products like Hoppe’s No. 9 and Bore-Tech Eliminator, the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine positions itself as a specialized solution for heavy fouling rather than a general-purpose cleaner. I chose this one based on countless positive reviews emphasizing its effectiveness on stubborn copper.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype and could become a staple in my cleaning kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved cleaning my AR-15 after a day at the range, firing approximately 200 rounds of .223 ammunition. The conditions were relatively dry and mild, typical for a California summer day. I followed the instructions, applying a liberal amount of Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine to a bore brush and running it through the barrel several times. Then, I let it sit for about 10 minutes before patching it out.
The initial patches came out heavily soiled with carbon and copper residue. It was noticeably more effective than my usual solvent on the first pass. I found the application process simple and straightforward. There were no overpowering or unpleasant odors, which is a definite plus compared to some bore cleaners.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine has become a regular part of my cleaning routine. I’ve used it on various firearms, including my bolt-action hunting rifle and my 9mm pistol. In all cases, it has consistently delivered excellent results. The durability of the cleaner itself is a non-issue, as it’s a liquid solvent. However, the 4 oz. bottle necessitates careful handling to avoid spills.
I clean my firearms after every range session, regardless of the number of rounds fired. This allows me to monitor any potential wear or damage. With Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine, I’ve observed no signs of etching or damage to the bore, which confirms its non-abrasive nature. Compared to my previous experiences with more aggressive copper solvents, the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine offers a gentler yet equally effective cleaning action.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle
Specifications
- Type: Bore Cleaner
- Size: 3.75 oz (Slightly less than advertised, but negligible)
- Quantity: 1 Bottle
- Removes copper, lead, wax, and plastic wad fouling. This ensures a comprehensive cleaning action.
- Safe to use on carbon and stainless steel barrels. It protects the integrity of various firearm materials.
- Helps control copper build-up. This reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning.
- Non-abrasive. This prevents damage to the bore during cleaning.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the product’s effectiveness and safety. The non-abrasive formula is especially important for maintaining the accuracy and longevity of a firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine excels at removing stubborn copper fouling. After soaking for the recommended time, patches come out significantly cleaner than with other solvents I’ve used. It’s reliable and consistent, providing peace of mind that my barrels are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
Its strength lies in its ability to tackle heavy fouling without damaging the bore. One area for potential improvement might be in its effectiveness against powder fouling alone; some dedicated powder solvents might edge it out slightly in that regard. Overall, the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine meets and often exceeds expectations, especially regarding copper removal.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The small bottle is easy to store and handle. The liquid is thin, allowing it to penetrate tight spaces within the bore.
There’s no real learning curve; it’s as simple as applying, soaking, and patching. The lack of harsh odors is a definite ergonomic advantage.
Durability & Maintenance
As a chemical solvent, the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine itself doesn’t degrade or wear out over time. The shelf life seems to be quite long, as I’ve had a bottle for over a year with no noticeable change in performance. Maintenance involves keeping the bottle tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine doesn’t require any specific accessories, but it works best with a quality bore brush, jag, and cleaning patches. It is compatible with all standard firearm cleaning tools. The product’s effectiveness can be enhanced when used in conjunction with a bore scope to visually confirm complete copper removal.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle
Pros
- Extremely effective at removing copper fouling, ensuring optimal barrel performance.
- Safe for use on both carbon and stainless steel barrels, providing versatility.
- Non-abrasive formula prevents damage to the bore, extending the life of the firearm.
- Helps control copper build-up, reducing the frequency of deep cleaning sessions.
- Easy to use with minimal learning curve, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Cons
- The 4 oz. bottle size may be too small for users who frequently clean multiple firearms.
- May not be as effective as dedicated solvents for solely powder fouling removal.
Who Should Buy Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle?
This product is perfect for precision rifle shooters who need to maintain accuracy by eliminating copper fouling. It is also ideal for handgun owners who want a safe and effective cleaner for lead and powder residue. The Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine benefits anyone who values meticulous firearm maintenance and seeks to prolong the life of their barrels.
Those who primarily shoot non-jacketed bullets and experience minimal copper fouling might find a less specialized, general-purpose cleaner sufficient. Individuals extremely sensitive to chemical odors, though this product has minimal odor, might prefer alternatives. A good bore guide is a must-have accessory when cleaning a rifle, ensuring the cleaning rod doesn’t damage the rifling.
Conclusion on Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle
Overall, the Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine 4 oz. Bottle is an excellent product that delivers on its promise of removing stubborn fouling without damaging the bore. Its effectiveness against copper, lead, wax, and plastic fouling makes it a valuable addition to any shooter’s cleaning kit. At $8.99, the price is justified by its performance and the peace of mind it provides.
I would highly recommend Lyman Butch’s Bore Shine to anyone serious about firearm maintenance and accuracy. Invest in a bottle, give it a try, and see the difference it makes in your cleaning routine!