The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge Made a Bold First Impression
For any shotgun owner, maintaining the firearm’s performance is paramount. Regular cleaning prevents corrosion, ensures proper cycling, and prolongs the lifespan of your trusted scattergun. That’s why I was immediately intrigued by the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge, a self-contained cleaning solution designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns. As someone who has seen countless cleaning kits come and go, I was eager to see if this offering from Kleen-Bore lived up to its “Classic” name.
My primary need was a portable and comprehensive cleaning kit for my 20-gauge used primarily for upland bird hunting. I was tired of lugging around a bulky, disorganized collection of rods, brushes, and solvents. I needed something compact, reliable, and effective for cleaning in the field after a long day of chasing quail.
Unboxing the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge revealed a well-organized and lightweight package. The reusable carrying/storage case immediately appealed to me. The components felt sturdy, particularly the 3-piece aluminum rod, a welcome departure from some of the flimsier rods I’ve encountered.
Compared to standalone brushes and solvent bottles, the all-in-one nature of the kit was a major draw. I also considered a generic universal cleaning kit but opted for the Kleen-Bore because it was specifically tailored for the 20-gauge. This ensures a proper fit for the bore brush and mop, maximizing cleaning effectiveness.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The kit looked promising, but the true test would be its performance in the field. I was eager to see how well it cleaned and how durable the components would prove to be.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge came during a dove hunt on a particularly dusty day. After a morning of heavy shooting, my shotgun was noticeably fouled with powder residue and grime. I set up the kit on the tailgate of my truck to perform a quick field cleaning.
The 32″ Kleen-Bore 3-piece aluminum rod assembled easily and felt surprisingly robust. The double-end nylon bristle gun brush was useful for cleaning the action and other hard-to-reach areas. The 20 GA phosphor bronze bore brush effectively scrubbed the fouling from the barrel.
I was impressed with how smoothly the bore brush traveled down the barrel. The included BreakFree CLP made the cleaning process even easier, dissolving stubborn residue and lubricating the moving parts. The patches also worked very well with the slotted shotgun patch holder.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my gear. I’ve used it in various conditions, from hot and dry to cold and damp. The kit has consistently performed well.
Durability has been surprisingly good. The aluminum rod shows no signs of bending or breaking. The brushes have retained their shape and effectiveness. The silicone cloth is still usable, although it has naturally darkened with use.
Maintenance is simple. The brushes can be cleaned with solvent, and the rod wipes down easily. Keeping the components organized in the carrying case ensures that everything is readily accessible and protected from damage. The kit has outperformed my previous haphazard system of using loose cleaning supplies.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge is designed for 20-gauge shotguns. This ensures a proper fit and optimal cleaning performance.
It includes a 32″ Kleen-Bore 3-piece aluminum rod. This rod accepts 10, 12, 16, 20, 28, and 410 accessories with 5/16-27 American standard threads, making it versatile.
The kit contains a double-end nylon bristle gun brush. This brush is ideal for cleaning actions, receivers, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Also included is a 20 GA phosphor bronze bore brush. This is specifically designed to scrub fouling and residue from the barrel of a 20-gauge shotgun.
A 20 GA cotton bore mop is also part of the kit. The mop is great for applying oil and removing any remaining debris after brushing.
The slotted shotgun patch holder allows for easy and effective cleaning with cotton patches. This ensures even distribution of solvent and efficient debris removal.
The kit comes with a 2 oz bottle of BreakFree CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant). The CLP helps dissolve fouling, lubricates moving parts, and protects against corrosion.
A silicone cloth is included for wiping down the exterior of the shotgun. It protects the firearm’s finish from moisture and corrosion.
Shotgun cotton cleaning patches are provided for use with the slotted patch holder. These patches are designed to absorb solvents and remove fouling from the bore.
The reusable carrying/storage case keeps all the components organized and protected. This is very useful for transporting and storing the kit.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge excels at its primary function: cleaning a 20-gauge shotgun. The combination of the bronze bore brush, cotton mop, and BreakFree CLP effectively removes fouling and prevents corrosion. The kit meets my expectations for a basic cleaning solution.
One strength of the kit is its portability. The compact carrying case makes it easy to bring to the range or on hunting trips. A weakness is the reliance on patches; a larger supply would be beneficial.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge is adequate for its intended purpose. The materials are not top-of-the-line, but they are durable enough for regular use. The kit is lightweight and easy to handle.
The kit is fairly user-friendly. Assembling the rod and attaching the brushes is straightforward. There is a minimal learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge should last for several years of regular use. The brushes will eventually wear out, but they are replaceable. The aluminum rod is sturdy enough to withstand repeated use without bending or breaking.
The kit is easy to maintain. Clean the brushes after each use and wipe down the rod and case. Replace the cotton patches as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge comes with everything you need for basic cleaning. There are no additional accessories included. The rod’s 5/16-27 American standard threads allow for compatibility with a wide variety of aftermarket brushes and accessories.
You could potentially upgrade the bore brush to a more aggressive model if needed. Using different solvents or lubricants is also an option. The Kleen-Bore kit is compatible with most standard shotgun cleaning accessories.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge
Pros
- Comprehensive kit includes everything needed for basic 20-gauge shotgun cleaning. The kit is an all-in-one solution for maintaining your firearm.
- Portable and organized thanks to the reusable carrying/storage case. The compact design makes it ideal for the range or field use.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to most shotgun owners. At $29.99, it’s a great value for the money.
- Easy to use with a minimal learning curve. The kit is user-friendly, even for beginners.
- Versatile rod accepts various accessories with standard threads. This allows for customization and upgrades as needed.
Cons
- Limited patch supply; you’ll likely need to purchase more patches separately. The included patches are sufficient for initial use, but replenishment will be necessary.
- Basic components, not the highest quality materials. The kit is adequate for basic cleaning but might not hold up to heavy-duty use.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge?
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge is perfect for 20-gauge shotgun owners who want a basic, affordable, and portable cleaning solution. It’s especially well-suited for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs to clean their shotgun in the field. It’s also great for new shotgun owners.
Those who need a more robust or specialized cleaning kit, or those who clean a variety of firearms, should skip this product. They should consider a more comprehensive universal cleaning kit.
A must-have accessory would be additional shotgun cleaning patches. A separate, high-quality gun oil might also be considered.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge is a solid and affordable option for basic 20-gauge shotgun cleaning. While it’s not the most luxurious or feature-rich kit on the market, it provides everything you need to keep your shotgun clean and functioning properly. The portable design and ease of use make it an excellent choice for hunters and recreational shooters who need a reliable cleaning solution on the go.
The price is certainly justified for what you get. The value proposition is strong, especially for those new to shotgun ownership.
I would personally recommend the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 20 Gauge to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and affordable cleaning solution for their 20-gauge shotgun. For less than $30, it’s a smart investment in the longevity and performance of your firearm. Pick one up today and keep your 20-gauge running smoothly!