Blue Rifle Ripcord Review

The Blue Rifle Ripcord Made a Bold First Impression

The Blue Rifle Ripcord promises a revolutionary approach to firearm cleaning. It’s a caliber-specific, molded rubberized core wrapped in heat-resistant Nomex fibers. My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and skepticism – could something so simple truly replace traditional cleaning rods and brushes?

I’ve spent years wrestling with cumbersome cleaning kits, patching rods, and solvents that seem to end up everywhere except inside the bore. The promise of a quicker, more efficient cleaning solution was definitely appealing. Unboxing the Blue Rifle Ripcord, the first thing I noticed was its compact design and the quality feel of the materials.

It felt robust and well-made, and the easy-feed design looked genuinely promising. Compared to bore snakes I’ve used in the past, the Blue Rifle Ripcord’s molded core appeared far more substantial and likely to maintain consistent contact with the bore. I previously used generic bore snakes, which often felt flimsy and lacked the scrubbing power needed for heavily fouled barrels. The Blue Rifle Ripcord felt different from the start.

My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the rubberized core’s long-term durability. I questioned how well it would hold up against repeated exposure to solvents and high temperatures. But overall, my first impression was positive. I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims and simplify my cleaning routine.

Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Rifle Ripcord to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Blue Rifle Ripcord was at the range after a long day of shooting my AR-15. The rifle had seen several hundred rounds of .223 ammunition and was definitely in need of a thorough cleaning. I wanted to see if the Blue Rifle Ripcord could effectively remove the carbon buildup.

I ran the Blue Rifle Ripcord through the bore several times, following the instructions for breech-to-muzzle cleaning. The easy-feed design made the process significantly faster than using a traditional cleaning rod and patches. The Blue Rifle Ripcord moved smoothly through the bore, and I could feel the Nomex fibers scrubbing against the fouling. I tested it in dry conditions, and the ripcord moved smoothly without catching on the bore.

After just a few passes, the patches came out significantly cleaner. I was impressed by how much carbon the Blue Rifle Ripcord had removed on its initial run. There were no surprises, except for how much easier and faster it was than traditional methods.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Blue Rifle Ripcord has proven to be a reliable and effective cleaning tool. I’ve used it on multiple rifles chambered in .223/5.56, and it has consistently delivered excellent results. The durability of the rubberized core is still strong.

I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear on the Blue Rifle Ripcord. It has withstood repeated exposure to solvents without any degradation of the materials. Cleaning the Blue Rifle Ripcord itself is also straightforward: I simply wash it with soap and water and let it air dry.

Compared to my previous experiences with bore snakes and cleaning rods, the Blue Rifle Ripcord has been a significant improvement. It is faster, more effective, and easier to maintain. I can say with confidence that it outperforms traditional cleaning methods.

Breaking Down the Features of Blue Rifle Ripcord

Specifications

The Blue Rifle Ripcord boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Caliber Specific: The molded rubberized core is designed for a specific caliber, ensuring a tight and effective fit within the bore. This guarantees maximum contact and cleaning efficiency.
• Heat Resistant up to 700 Degrees F: The Nomex fibers can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for cleaning rifles immediately after shooting. This allows for quick and effective cleaning before fouling hardens.
• Nomex Fibers: These fibers act as both a brush to loosen fouling and a patch to capture particles. They provide a 360-degree cleaning action, reaching every part of the bore.
• Easy-Feed Design: This feature allows for quick and easy cleaning from the breech to the muzzle. It simplifies the cleaning process, saving time and effort.
• 8-32 Threaded Ends: The Blue Rifle Ripcord is equipped with 8-32 threaded ends, making it compatible with all Otis cleaning components. This adds versatility and allows for customization with different brushes and tools.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the cleaning performance and user experience. The caliber-specific design ensures a proper fit, while the heat-resistant fibers allow for immediate cleaning after shooting. The easy-feed design and compatibility with Otis components make the cleaning process more efficient and versatile.

Performance & Functionality

The Blue Rifle Ripcord excels at its primary function: cleaning rifle bores quickly and effectively. Its 360-degree cleaning action and the scrubbing power of the Nomex fibers efficiently remove carbon buildup and fouling. The Blue Rifle Ripcord does its job very well.

The only weakness I’ve observed is that it may not be as effective at removing heavy copper fouling as a dedicated copper solvent and brush. It meets and generally exceeds expectations. It is much faster and easier to use than traditional cleaning methods, without sacrificing cleaning quality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Blue Rifle Ripcord is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The materials are high-quality and feel durable. The molded rubberized core provides a solid foundation, and the Nomex fibers are soft enough to prevent scratching the bore.

The weight is minimal, making it easy to carry in a range bag or backpack. There is virtually no learning curve. It is incredibly user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Blue Rifle Ripcord appears to be built to last. The materials are resistant to solvents and high temperatures. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply wash the ripcord with soap and water and allow it to air dry. Cleaning is very easy.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Blue Rifle Ripcord comes with the ripcord itself. However, the 8-32 threaded ends open up a world of customization. You can attach various brushes, jags, and other cleaning tools from Otis or other brands to enhance its cleaning capabilities.

It is compatible with most standard 8-32 threaded cleaning accessories, including bore brushes, mops, and jags. The Blue Rifle Ripcord is very versatile.

Pros and Cons of Blue Rifle Ripcord