Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner Review

First Thoughts on the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner

For years, the acrid smell and stubborn residue of blackpowder have been the bane of muzzleloader enthusiasts like myself. Cleaning after a day on the range or a successful hunt felt like a second job. That’s why I was intrigued by the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner, a product promising to simplify this tedious task.

I was drawn to this cleaner after struggling with other products that either left behind a film or required excessive scrubbing. The promise of a U.S. Military-derived formula, odorless and non-toxic, immediately piqued my interest. Could this finally be the solution to a cleaner, less frustrating blackpowder experience?

Unboxing the Lyman bore cleaner, the first thing I noticed was the sturdy 11-ounce bottle. It felt solid in my hand, suggesting a quality product inside. It isn’t flashy, but the simple labeling conveys a sense of practicality and straightforwardness. This cleaner’s claims of being odorless were indeed accurate upon initial inspection; no harsh chemical smells assaulted my nostrils.

I considered other cleaners like Hoppe’s No. 9 and Ballistol, both reputable brands, but their blackpowder-specific solutions often fell short on complete residue removal and rust protection. Lyman’s promise of removing lead and plastic fouling faster, coupled with its rust and corrosion protection, gave it the edge. The biodegradable aspect was also a plus, aligning with my commitment to responsible outdoor practices.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The lack of odor and the claim of military-grade cleaning power set it apart. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype and would truly streamline my blackpowder cleaning routine.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner at my local shooting range after a full day of running my .50 caliber Hawken rifle. The conditions were typical for late summer: hot and humid. After firing approximately 40 rounds, my bore was heavily fouled with powder residue and some lead.

Using a saturated patch on my cleaning rod, I swabbed the bore of my rifle thoroughly with the cleaner. It went on easily, without any noticeable fumes or irritation. Allowing it to soak for about 5 minutes, I then used a bronze brush to scrub the bore. The blackpowder residue lifted much easier than with previous cleaners I’ve used. A few more patches revealed a significantly cleaner bore with less effort.

I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the cleaner acted. The biggest surprise was how effectively it loosened the stubborn lead fouling, which often requires harsh solvents and extensive scrubbing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner continues to impress me. My muzzleloader sees action at least twice a month, and cleaning is now a much less daunting task.

The durability of the product is evident in how little I’ve used over this time; a little goes a long way. I haven’t noticed any degradation in the cleaner’s effectiveness. It still removes fouling with the same ease as when I first used it. Maintenance is simple; after cleaning, a light coat of oil protects the bore against rust. This routine has proven highly effective.

Compared to my previous experiences with other blackpowder cleaners, the Lyman product is a clear winner. It requires less effort, offers superior cleaning, and provides better rust protection, saving time and frustration.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner

Specifications

• Type: Bore Cleaner. Specifically designed for blackpowder firearms.
• Size: 11 ounces. The larger bottle provides ample cleaner for numerous cleaning sessions.
• Quantity: 1 bottle. This provides enough product for the average user to last a long while.
• Odor: Odorless. A significant advantage, making it more pleasant to use indoors.
• Toxicity: Non-toxic. Increases user safety and peace of mind.
• Flammability: Non-flammable. Offers greater safety during storage and use.
• Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly. A responsible choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Removes: Powder, lead, and plastic fouling. Provides a comprehensive cleaning solution.
• Protection: Protects against rust and corrosion. Extends the life of your firearm.
  The non-toxic nature and effective fouling removal are particularly important. These features contribute to a safer and more enjoyable shooting and cleaning experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner performs exceptionally well at its primary task: cleaning blackpowder firearms. It effectively removes fouling, lead, and even plastic residue from shotgun wads.

Its greatest strength lies in its ability to loosen stubborn deposits quickly and efficiently. The fact that it is odorless and non-toxic makes the cleaning process much more pleasant. The only minor weakness is that heavily leaded bores may still require some additional scrubbing with a bronze brush. It does, however, significantly reduce the required effort compared to other products. It more than meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner is packaged in a straightforward, functional bottle. The bottle is easy to grip.

The absence of harsh chemicals or strong odors makes it exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no need for extensive ventilation or protective gear during use.

Durability & Maintenance

The cleaner itself is designed to maintain the durability of your firearm by preventing rust and corrosion. Proper firearm maintenance, including regular cleaning with this product, ensures a long lifespan for your muzzleloader.

This product requires no special maintenance. Simply store the bottle in a cool, dry place.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner does not require any specific accessories for use, although cleaning patches and a bore brush are essential for any firearm cleaning. It is compatible with standard cleaning rods and accessories.

It enhances the overall maintenance and longevity of blackpowder firearms, especially when paired with a quality bore brush and cleaning patches.

Pros and Cons of Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner