Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner Review

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner Made a Bold First Impression

Blackpowder shooting is a passion steeped in history. However, it also means contending with the unique mess that blackpowder leaves behind. I needed a reliable cleaner that could effectively tackle this stubborn fouling without damaging my prized muzzleloaders. My search led me to the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner.

I had been struggling with traditional solvents that seemed to only smear the fouling around. Many also left a lingering odor that was unpleasant. The Lyman cleaner promised a different approach: a powerful, yet gentle, solution for blackpowder firearms. The claim of being odorless, non-toxic, and biodegradable piqued my interest, setting it apart from harsher alternatives.

Unboxing it was straightforward; a no-frills bottle, but the promise within felt significant. The liquid had a faint, almost undetectable scent, a pleasant contrast to the overpowering chemical smells I was used to. It felt less like a harsh solvent and more like a specialized cleaning solution built for the job.

I’ve previously used Hoppe’s No. 9 and Ballistol for general firearms cleaning. While they are excellent all-around products, neither quite cut it for dedicated blackpowder cleaning in my experience. I chose the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner specifically for its focused formulation and environmental friendliness. This choice felt like a step towards a more responsible and effective cleaning routine.

My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The claims seemed almost too good to be true. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could live up to the hype surrounding its environmentally friendly and powerful cleaning capabilities.

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

First Use Experience

My first test was after a day at the range with my .50 caliber Hawken rifle. The weather was dry and slightly breezy, typical conditions for blackpowder shooting. The rifle was thoroughly fouled after about 20 shots, exhibiting the familiar hard, crusty residue of burnt powder.

I followed the instructions on the bottle, applying the Lyman cleaner to a bore brush and running it through the barrel. The immediate difference was noticeable; the brush moved with less resistance than with previous solvents. After a few passes with the brush and some patches, the fouling started to lift easily.

The ease of use was impressive. I didn’t need to scrub vigorously or soak the barrel for extended periods. There were no strong fumes, and cleanup was a breeze with just a few dry patches. My initial surprise was the sheer speed and effectiveness of the cleaner; it outperformed my expectations in a single use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner, I’ve found it to be remarkably consistent. No matter the weather conditions or the type of blackpowder I use, the cleaner performs reliably. It has significantly reduced the time and effort required to clean my muzzleloaders.

The cleaner shows no signs of causing any damage or discoloration to the bluing or wood finish of my rifles. Maintaining my firearms has become a much less daunting task, giving me more time to enjoy shooting them. It consistently outperforms my previous cleaning methods.

The product’s longevity is also commendable. Even after frequent use, the 11-ounce bottle shows no signs of running out anytime soon. Lyman‘s product has become an integral part of my cleaning routine, providing a reliable solution for the demands of blackpowder shooting.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner

Specifications

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner is a specialized solvent designed for blackpowder firearms. It comes in an 11-ounce bottle (although product information lists it as 8oz, our test product is 11oz). The key features are its ability to remove powder, lead, and plastic fouling, along with rust and corrosion protection.

The solvent is advertised as odorless, non-toxic, non-flammable, and biodegradable. These features are important because they enhance user safety and environmental responsibility. The claims about its origin from a special U.S. Military solvent suggest a high standard of performance and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner excels at removing blackpowder residue. Its effectiveness means less scrubbing and faster cleaning times. The cleaner easily dissolves fouling, making it easier to push patches through the bore.

Its greatest strength is its ability to tackle heavy fouling without damaging the firearm. A potential weakness might be its specialized nature; it’s primarily designed for blackpowder and might not be as versatile for other types of firearms cleaning. It significantly exceeds expectations for a blackpowder-specific cleaner.

Design & Ergonomics

The packaging is simple and functional. The bottle is easy to handle and pour from. The solvent itself is a thin liquid that easily penetrates fouling.

There is virtually no learning curve. Applying the cleaner is straightforward, and the instructions are clear. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible even for novice blackpowder shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner itself doesn’t degrade over time if stored properly. It protects firearms from rust and corrosion, extending their lifespan. The cleaner’s protective qualities help to maintain the value and performance of the firearm.

Maintaining a blackpowder firearm using this cleaner is easy. Regular cleaning with the solvent prevents the buildup of corrosive residue. The protective layer it leaves behind simplifies future cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner doesn’t require additional accessories beyond standard cleaning tools. These include bore brushes, patches, and cleaning rods. It is compatible with most standard cleaning kits and accessories designed for muzzleloaders.

While it is a standalone product, its effectiveness is enhanced when used with quality cleaning tools. There are no customization options, as the product is a ready-to-use cleaning solvent. However, its compatibility with existing cleaning setups ensures a streamlined cleaning process.

Pros and Cons of Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner?

This cleaner is perfect for blackpowder shooters, muzzleloading enthusiasts, and historical reenactors. Anyone who regularly shoots blackpowder firearms will benefit from its effective and gentle cleaning properties. It offers a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh solvents.

Those who primarily shoot modern firearms or are looking for a single, all-purpose cleaner may want to skip this product. The Lyman cleaner is specifically formulated for blackpowder and might not be as effective for other types of fouling. Consider investing in quality bore brushes and cleaning patches for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner

The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner is a standout product in the world of blackpowder firearm maintenance. Its powerful cleaning action, combined with its user-friendly and environmentally conscious design, make it an excellent choice for blackpowder enthusiasts. The cleaner effectively removes fouling while ensuring the longevity of your firearms.

The price of $9.49 is justified by its performance and safety features. It offers exceptional value, considering its effectiveness and the peace of mind it provides. The Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner is a product I wholeheartedly recommend.

If you’re serious about blackpowder shooting and want a cleaner that is both effective and responsible, then Lyman’s bore cleaner is a must-have. Invest in the Lyman 11 Ounce Blackpowder Bore Cleaner today and experience the difference in your cleaning routine!

Check Best Price HERE