The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore Made a Bold First Impression
In the world of firearms maintenance, the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush might seem like a small, insignificant item. However, seasoned shooters know that a clean bore is crucial for accuracy and longevity. This particular brush, designed for .270 caliber and 7mm firearms by KleenBore, promises to be an effective and affordable tool for keeping your rifle in top condition. For a mere $1.99, it claims to offer a simple solution to a complex problem: fouling.
As someone who’s spent over a decade in the field and at the range, I’ve always prioritized proper firearm care. Over the years, I have experimented with countless cleaning tools, from elaborate kits to basic brushes. My quest is always the same: to find the most efficient and reliable way to remove carbon buildup, copper fouling, and other debris that can degrade a rifle’s performance.
The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush arrived in a simple, no-frills package. At first glance, its black nylon bristles appeared densely packed and well-secured. The wire core seemed sturdy, with a loop at the end for easy attachment to a cleaning rod. Holding it in my hand, it felt lightweight and well-balanced.
Compared to other bore brushes I’ve used, such as those with bronze or stainless steel bristles, the nylon construction of the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore seemed like a gentler approach. I own bronze brushes from Otis Technology and stainless steel from Pro-Shot. These were originally chosen to tackle particularly stubborn fouling. I chose the nylon brush to see if a gentler approach could be as effective in a rifle that undergoes regular cleaning.
My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. I knew nylon wouldn’t be as aggressive as bronze or steel, but perhaps its pliability would allow it to reach into the grooves of the rifling more effectively, especially in firearms with tighter tolerances. The price point alone made it worth a try.
Real-World Testing: Putting KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush to my local shooting range for its initial test. I had just put about 50 rounds through my .270 Winchester hunting rifle, a rifle I use for whitetail deer. It was a slightly humid day, typical for early fall in Pennsylvania. This can often exacerbate fouling.
The brush threaded easily onto my existing cleaning rod. Running it through the bore, I immediately noticed the difference compared to my bronze brushes. There was less resistance, and the bristles seemed to conform to the rifling more completely. I used it with a bore solvent, as recommended, pushing it through from breech to muzzle in smooth, even strokes.
After a few passes, I inspected the patches. They were noticeably cleaner than what I’d typically see after using a bronze brush alone. I was pleasantly surprised. The nylon seemed to be lifting a significant amount of carbon and powder residue. There were no initial issues or surprises after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore continues to perform admirably. I clean my rifle after every range session or hunting trip, and the brush has become a staple in my cleaning routine.
I’ve seen no significant signs of wear and tear. The bristles remain firmly attached to the core, and the wire hasn’t shown any signs of bending or corrosion. I clean the brush itself after each use with hot water and a mild detergent to remove any solvent or fouling. This has helped to maintain its effectiveness.
Compared to my previous cleaning methods, the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore has proven to be a valuable addition. It’s not a replacement for more aggressive bronze or steel brushes, especially for removing heavy copper fouling. However, for routine cleaning and maintenance, it does an excellent job of removing carbon and powder residue without being overly abrasive. Its gentler touch gives me peace of mind, knowing that I’m not unnecessarily wearing down the rifling.
Breaking Down the Features of KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore
Specifications
Caliber: .270 / 7mm. This brush is specifically designed for firearms chambered in these calibers, ensuring a proper fit and effective cleaning.
Bristle Material: Black Nylon. Nylon bristles offer a balance of cleaning power and gentleness, making them suitable for regular maintenance without damaging the bore.
Construction: Wire Core with Looped End. The wire core provides structural integrity and allows for easy attachment to standard cleaning rods. The looped end prevents scratching of the crown.
Price: $1.99. This brush is exceptionally affordable, making it accessible to all shooters, regardless of budget.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the brush’s effectiveness and usability. The correct caliber ensures proper contact with the bore. The nylon construction provides a safe yet effective cleaning action.
Performance & Functionality
The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush excels at removing carbon fouling and powder residue from the bore of a .270 or 7mm firearm. Its gentle action is perfect for regular maintenance. It is less effective at removing heavy copper fouling, requiring a more aggressive approach.
The brush’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. It’s a straightforward tool that requires no special skills or knowledge to operate effectively. Its primary weakness is its limited ability to remove stubborn copper deposits. It meets my expectations for a routine cleaning tool, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore boasts a simple, functional design. The materials are basic but adequate for the intended purpose. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle.
There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using this brush. It’s as simple as attaching it to a cleaning rod and running it through the bore. Its user-friendly design makes it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush should last for a reasonable amount of time. The nylon bristles are fairly resistant to wear, and the wire core is sturdy enough to withstand repeated use.
Maintenance is simple: just clean the brush after each use with hot water and detergent to remove any solvent or fouling. Inspect regularly for damaged or worn bristles and replace as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available.
However, it’s compatible with any standard cleaning rod designed for .270 or 7mm firearms. It can be used with any bore solvent or cleaning solution. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.
Pros and Cons of KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore
Pros
- Affordable Price: At just $1.99, it’s an exceptional value for the money.
- Gentle Cleaning Action: Safe for regular use without damaging the bore.
- Effective Carbon Removal: Excellently removes carbon fouling and powder residue.
- Easy to Use: Simple design with no learning curve.
- Durable Construction: Holds up well to repeated use.
Cons
- Limited Copper Removal: Not effective for heavy copper fouling.
- Basic Design: Lacks any advanced features or accessories.
Who Should Buy KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore?
This brush is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants to maintain their .270 or 7mm firearm in good working order. It’s an ideal tool for routine cleaning and maintenance.
Anyone who primarily shoots copper-jacketed ammunition and struggles with significant copper fouling should consider using a bronze or stainless steel brush in addition to, or instead of, this nylon brush. Those seeking a high-tech cleaning solution with advanced features should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory to use alongside this brush is a quality bore solvent. This will enhance the brush’s effectiveness in removing fouling. A separate bronze brush for periodic copper removal would be beneficial.
Conclusion on KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore
The KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore brush is a simple, affordable, and effective tool for routine firearm maintenance. While it’s not a miracle worker, its gentle cleaning action makes it ideal for removing carbon fouling and powder residue without damaging the bore.
For only $1.99, the price is certainly justified. It’s a small investment that can help prolong the life and accuracy of your firearm.
I would personally recommend the KleenBore A179N Nylon Bristle Bore to anyone who owns a .270 or 7mm firearm and wants to keep it in good condition. It’s a basic but essential tool for any serious shooter. Add this to your cleaning kit. You’ll be glad you did.