The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod Made a Bold First Impression
After a decade of meticulously maintaining firearms, I’ve learned the importance of quality cleaning tools. When I saw the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod, I was intrigued by its stainless steel construction and DuPont TufCoat coating. I was looking for a rod that would effectively clean my rimfire rifles without damaging the bore.
My primary concern was finding a rod that wouldn’t scratch the delicate steel of my prized .22 target rifle. Many cheaper rods are made from softer metals that can leave deposits or even score the barrel. The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod promised a non-marring solution.
Unboxing the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod, I immediately appreciated the solid feel of the stainless steel. The DuPont TufCoat coating appeared smooth and uniform, lending an air of quality. The inclusion of a screw-on Delrin bushing and spinning Delrin handle was a thoughtful touch.
I considered the Hoppe’s 9 Deluxe Cleaning Rod and the Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rod. However, the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod’s specific focus on bore protection with its TufCoat seemed a cut above. The Manufacturer‘s attention to detail with the Delrin bushing and handle sealed the deal.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The rod felt well-made, but the ultimate test would be in its performance and durability. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promises of superior bore protection.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod after a long day at the range with my Ruger 10/22. I ran about 300 rounds of mixed ammunition through the rifle that day. My usual cleaning routine involves a bore snake, but I was eager to see how much more effectively the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod could clean the barrel.
The rod moved smoothly through the bore, thanks to the Delrin bushing centering it. Even after using a bore snake, the patches came out noticeably dirtier, indicating the rod’s superior cleaning power. The spinning Delrin handle made pushing the rod effortless, even through tighter spots in the barrel.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the threads on the handle felt slightly gritty at first. After a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth, the handle threads became much smoother. There were no other issues after first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod has proven to be a reliable tool. I clean my .22 rifles after every range session. The rod still glides smoothly through the bore.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the stainless steel rod itself. However, I did notice a small area (about 1/8″ in diameter) where the DuPont coating had chipped off near the handle. Recalling the other user’s experience, I contacted Tetra ProSmith customer service, who assured me it wouldn’t damage the barrel.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe the rod down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rods that bent or broke easily, the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod is a significant upgrade in durability and performance. It outperforms every other rod I have used.
Breaking Down the Features of Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod
Specifications
The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod is specifically designed for .22 caliber rifles. The rod is made from stainless steel with a DuPont TufCoat coating. The length is 29 inches, suitable for most .22 rifles.
The set includes a screw-on Delrin bushing, a brass collar to center the rod, and an exclusive spinning Delrin handle. These specifications matter because they directly impact the rod’s ability to clean effectively without damaging the rifle’s bore. The DuPont TufCoat, though prone to chipping as seen in my and others’ experience, is intended to provide a non-abrasive surface.
Performance & Functionality
The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod excels at effectively removing fouling from the bore of a .22 rifle. The Delrin bushing ensures the rod remains centered, preventing contact with the rifling. The spinning handle allows for smooth and consistent cleaning strokes.
The rod’s primary strength is its ability to thoroughly clean the bore without scratching the metal. A potential weakness is the fragility of the DuPont coating. Overall, it meets and largely exceeds my expectations for a .22 caliber cleaning rod.
Design & Ergonomics
The rod is well-balanced and comfortable to use. The stainless steel construction provides a solid feel, while the Delrin handle offers a comfortable grip. The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve.
The Delrin bushing screws on easily, and the spinning handle rotates freely. The weight is substantial enough to feel durable but not so heavy as to be cumbersome. The design is simple, robust, and effective.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel rod itself is extremely durable and should last for years with proper care. The weakest point is the DuPont TufCoat coating, as demonstrated by the chipping I experienced. Regular cleaning and light oiling will help maintain the rod in optimal condition.
The rod is easy to clean with a solvent and a clean cloth. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. It is easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod comes with a screw-on Delrin bushing and a spinning Delrin handle. There are no further customization options for this particular cleaning rod. However, it is compatible with standard .22 caliber bore brushes and jags from other brands.
The ability to use various brushes and jags adds versatility to the cleaning rod system. The Delrin bushing is designed specifically for this rod.
Pros and Cons of Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod
Pros
- Superior Bore Protection: The DuPont TufCoat coating, despite its potential for chipping, is designed to prevent scratching the bore.
- Smooth Cleaning Action: The Delrin bushing centers the rod, ensuring smooth movement through the barrel.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The spinning Delrin handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel rod is built to last, even with frequent use.
- Effective Cleaning: The rod effectively removes fouling and debris from the bore, leading to improved accuracy.
Cons
- Coating Durability: The DuPont TufCoat coating is prone to chipping.
- Price: It’s more expensive than basic aluminum cleaning rods.
Who Should Buy Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod?
The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod is perfect for .22 rifle owners who prioritize bore protection and thorough cleaning. This rod is ideal for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and hunters. Anyone who values the accuracy and longevity of their .22 rifle will benefit from this cleaning rod.
Those on a very tight budget might consider a cheaper aluminum rod. However, the long-term investment in the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod is well worth it for its superior cleaning and protective capabilities.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality .22 caliber bore brush. This should be paired with a good solvent.
Conclusion on Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod
The Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod is a well-designed and effective tool for maintaining the accuracy and longevity of your .22 rifle. Despite the minor issue with the DuPont coating, its benefits outweigh its drawbacks. The price of $23.49 is justified by the rod’s superior materials and performance.
I would absolutely recommend the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod to any .22 rifle owner who wants to take care of their firearm. Invest in the Tetra ProSmith .22 Cal Rifle Cleaning Rod and experience the difference a quality cleaning tool can make.