First Thoughts on the Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle
For years, I’ve battled the bane of every serious shooter: copper fouling. That blue-green gunk clinging stubbornly to rifling, degrading accuracy and requiring endless scrubbing. Enter the Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle, a product promising to dissolve that frustration overnight. It’s made by a manufacturer renowned for their cleaning products, and I hoped it would live up to its reputation.
My problem was simple: I needed a solvent that could effectively remove copper fouling without the need for harsh abrasives or endless elbow grease. After a particularly intense range day with my custom AR-15, the copper buildup was significant, and my usual cleaning routine wasn’t cutting it. The claim of overnight copper removal intrigued me.
Unboxing wasn’t a grand affair; just a sturdy plastic bottle filled with a pungent, amber-colored liquid. The smell was immediately reminiscent of traditional bore cleaner, but with a sharper, more aggressive edge. It felt professional, like something a serious shooter would use.
Compared to standard bore solvents I’ve used in the past, like Hoppe’s No. 9 (the inspiration for the name), the Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle promised a targeted approach to copper removal. Where other solvents addressed a wider range of fouling, this one was specifically designed to aggressively break down copper. I had also considered using a bore foam, but I felt the liquid would do a better job penetrating the grooves in my barrel.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The scent alone suggested a potent formula, but I knew the real test would be its performance in the field… or rather, in my cleaning room. The prospect of significantly reducing my cleaning time was definitely exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved a thoroughly fouled .308 Winchester barrel from my precision bolt-action rifle, which had seen a couple hundred rounds of copper jacketed ammunition. I liberally saturated a bore patch with the Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle and ran it through the barrel, followed by a nylon brush soaked in the same solvent. I repeated this several times before leaving the bore wet with the solvent overnight, as recommended.
The smell was intense, even in a well-ventilated area. I recommend using this product in a garage or outdoors. The next morning, I ran a clean patch through the barrel and was immediately impressed. The patch came out with a significant amount of blue copper residue. It was far more than I’d typically see after an overnight soak with other solvents.
The ease of use was straightforward. Wet the bore, let it sit, and clean. The effectiveness was undeniable. My only initial concern was the strong ammonia smell, which prompted me to ensure I was wearing gloves and working in a ventilated space.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use on multiple firearms, the Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle has consistently delivered exceptional results. I now use it after every range session where I fire copper-jacketed bullets. It makes subsequent cleaning much easier.
Durability-wise, the solvent hasn’t damaged any of my firearms finishes. However, as with any solvent, caution is advised to avoid prolonged contact with blued or painted surfaces. The bottle itself is sturdy and has held up well to repeated handling.
Maintaining the solvent itself is simple; just ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation. Compared to previous experiences with less effective solvents, this product has significantly reduced my cleaning time and effort. It outperforms almost every other copper solvent I’ve used. The amount of scrubbing needed is drastically reduced and my barrels are visibly cleaner.
Breaking Down the Features of Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle
Specifications
- Size: 1 pint. The pint-sized bottle provides a generous amount of solvent for numerous cleaning sessions. This is sufficient for regular use by even a frequent shooter.
- Formulated for bench rest shooters. This solvent is specifically designed for high-accuracy shooting where a pristine bore is critical. It assures me of its precision and effectiveness.
- Removes copper fouling overnight. This key feature is the biggest selling point, promising to dissolve stubborn copper deposits. This is a huge time-saver.
- Safe and fast, contains no abrasives. The non-abrasive formula ensures the bore isn’t damaged during cleaning. It is important to maintain the life of the firearm.
- Also removes powder, lead and plastic fouling. While primarily a copper solvent, its ability to tackle other types of fouling provides added value. This makes it useful for a wider variety of firearms.
- Ten bottles per case. This is relevant for retailers or those buying in bulk. For individuals, the pint bottle is sufficient.
These specifications translate to a product designed for serious shooters who demand the best possible accuracy and want to minimize cleaning time without damaging their firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle excels at its primary function: removing copper fouling. After an overnight soak, even heavily fouled barrels require minimal scrubbing to remove the remaining residue. It works perfectly for this task.
Its strength lies in its ability to dissolve copper quickly and effectively. A slight weakness might be its strong odor, requiring adequate ventilation. It exceeds my expectations for a copper solvent.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The bottle is easy to grip and pour from. It doesn’t have any fancy features, but it doesn’t need them.
The build quality is good, with a sturdy bottle that prevents leaks. The solvent’s viscosity is ideal for soaking patches and penetrating the bore. The design is user-friendly with no learning curve; apply, wait, and clean.
Durability & Maintenance
The solvent itself should last a long time with proper storage. As for the barrel of the gun, I expect it to last longer with this product. It should last for years.
Maintaining the solvent is straightforward: keep the cap tightly sealed and store it in a cool, dark place. This will prevent evaporation and maintain its effectiveness. Minimal maintenance is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle doesn’t require any specific accessories, but it works best with high-quality bore brushes, patches, and a good cleaning rod. It is compatible with standard cleaning supplies. No modifications are needed.
Pros and Cons of Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle
Pros
- Extremely effective at removing copper fouling. Reduces cleaning time significantly.
- Non-abrasive formula. Safe for use on high-quality barrels.
- Also removes powder, lead, and plastic fouling. Versatile cleaning solution.
- Easy to use. Simple application process with minimal effort.
- Concentrated formula. A little goes a long way, making it cost-effective.
Cons
- Strong ammonia odor. Requires adequate ventilation during use.
- May affect certain firearm finishes if left in contact for extended periods.
Who Should Buy Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle?
Perfect for: Competitive shooters, precision rifle enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to maintain the accuracy of their firearms by effectively removing copper fouling. Any shooter who values their time would benefit.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who are sensitive to strong odors or those who rarely shoot copper-jacketed bullets.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality bore brushes, cleaning patches, and a well-ventilated workspace.
Conclusion on Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle
The Bench Rest-9 Copper Solvent 1 Pint Bottle is a highly effective solution for removing copper fouling from firearms. Its non-abrasive formula and overnight action make it a valuable tool for maintaining accuracy and extending barrel life. It is worth the investment.
The price is justified by its superior performance and time-saving benefits. This product is competitively priced for this type of quality.
I would absolutely recommend it to any serious shooter who wants to keep their firearms in top condition. It’s a must-have for any cleaning bench. Get a bottle, and experience the difference a truly effective copper solvent can make!