The BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning rods: they aren’t the most glamorous piece of gear in your range bag, but they are absolutely essential for maintaining accuracy and extending the life of your firearms. That’s why when I needed a dedicated cleaning rod for my .17 caliber rifles, the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD from BIR caught my eye. This particular model promises a coated design, preventing damage to the bore, and a generous 33-inch length, ideal for reaching the far end of longer rifle barrels.
My search began after noticing some copper fouling in my .17 HMR’s barrel that my standard cleaning kit wasn’t effectively removing. I wanted a rod specifically designed for smaller calibers to ensure a tight, precise fit and minimize the risk of scratching the bore. I initially considered a Bore Tech rod and a Tipton carbon fiber rod, but the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD’s appealing price point of $9.49 made it the perfect starting point. I wanted to see if a budget-friendly option could deliver on its promises of effective and safe cleaning.
Upon receiving the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD, my initial impression was surprisingly positive. The rod felt sturdy, despite its slim profile. The coating appeared to be evenly applied and smooth to the touch, inspiring confidence that it wouldn’t harm the delicate rifling of my .17 caliber barrels. It’s lightweight, but doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy. My excitement grew as I prepared to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test with the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD took place at my home cleaning bench after a range session with my .17 HMR rifle. The bore was visibly fouled with powder residue and copper. I used the rod with a .17 caliber bore brush and patches soaked in a copper solvent.
I was immediately impressed with how smoothly the rod moved through the bore. The coating truly did its job, minimizing friction and preventing any direct contact between the metal rod and the rifling. Even with a tight-fitting patch, the rod rotated easily, following the rifling without binding or catching. I used it for about 10 passes with solvent, followed by dry patches to remove residue. The rod cleaned well! The bore was significantly cleaner after just one session. I tested it on two different .17 caliber rifles that first session. No problems.
No unexpected issues or surprises arose during this first use. Everything worked as it should. The rod felt comfortable in my hand, and the length was perfect for reaching the entire barrel without having to reposition the rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD has proven to be a reliable and effective tool. It has seen action after numerous range trips, cleaning both my .17 HMR and .17 WSM rifles. The rod consistently performs well, maintaining its smooth action and effectively removing fouling.
The coating on the rod remains intact, with no signs of peeling or wear, even after repeated use with various solvents. The rod itself remains straight and true, resisting bending or flexing even when applying moderate pressure. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s required to keep it in good condition. It doesn’t take much effort to clean and maintain.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, uncoated cleaning rods, the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD is a significant upgrade. It cleans more effectively, is gentler on the bore, and feels much more durable. It’s a clear improvement and a valuable addition to my cleaning kit.
Breaking Down the Features of BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD
Specifications
- Caliber: .17 Caliber. This ensures a proper fit for .17 caliber barrels, preventing damage or ineffective cleaning.
- Length: 33 inches. The length provides adequate reach for cleaning most rifle barrels, including those on longer-barreled target rifles.
- Coating: The coating material is unspecified, but it is designed to protect the bore from scratches and damage during cleaning. This is a critical feature for preserving the accuracy of the rifle.
- Construction: Presumably steel. This ensures durability and resistance to bending or breaking under pressure.
- Handle: Assumed to be standard T-handle. This allows for a comfortable and secure grip during cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD excels at its primary function: cleaning .17 caliber rifle bores effectively and safely. The coated design minimizes friction and prevents scratching. It’s easy to use and provides a noticeable improvement in bore cleanliness compared to using uncoated rods or makeshift cleaning methods.
The main strength lies in its ability to reach the entire length of the barrel and maintain a smooth, consistent cleaning action. If there were anything to improve, it would be the handle; it could be more ergonomic. But even still, it does the job well and is difficult to fault at this price. It meets and exceeds my expectations, especially considering its affordable price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing bore protection and ease of use. The coating is smooth and evenly applied. It inspires confidence that it will not damage the delicate rifling of .17 caliber barrels.
The rod is lightweight and easy to handle, allowing for comfortable and controlled cleaning. There is a slight learning curve, as with any cleaning rod, to get a feel for the proper amount of pressure and rotation needed. But, in general it is user friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD appears to be quite durable. The coating has held up well to repeated use and exposure to solvents. The steel rod resists bending or breaking.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use. With proper care, this cleaning rod should last for years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD does not come with any included accessories. It is designed to be used with standard .17 caliber bore brushes, jags, and patches, which are widely available from various manufacturers. This allows for customization based on personal preferences and cleaning needs.
While there are no direct customization options for the rod itself, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket cleaning accessories, allowing users to tailor their cleaning setup to their specific rifles and cleaning routines. I have found it works well with brushes and jags from Hoppe’s and Pro-Shot, but it is likely compatible with most brands.
Pros and Cons of BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD
Pros
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for money.
- Coated Design: Protects the bore from scratches and damage.
- Adequate Length: 33 inches is sufficient for most .17 caliber rifles.
- Durable Construction: Resists bending or breaking under pressure.
- Effective Cleaning: Removes fouling and residue effectively.
Cons
- Basic Handle: A more ergonomic handle would improve comfort.
- No Included Accessories: Requires separate purchase of brushes and patches.
Who Should Buy BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD?
- Perfect for: .17 caliber rifle owners, target shooters, varmint hunters, and anyone who values maintaining the accuracy and longevity of their firearms. It’s also a great option for those on a budget who don’t want to compromise on bore protection.
- Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end cleaning rod with a rotating handle or included accessories may want to consider a more expensive option. Also, those needing a rod for larger calibers, should obviously skip this product.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality .17 caliber bore brush, jag, patches, and a good bore solvent are essential for effective cleaning.
Conclusion on BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD
The BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable and effective cleaning rod for their .17 caliber rifles. Its coated design provides superior bore protection, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The price is definitely justified.
The BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD has proven itself to be a valuable addition to my cleaning kit. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly cleaning solution. Don’t let a dirty bore compromise your accuracy. Invest in the BIR 17CAL 33 COATED CLEANING ROD and keep your .17 caliber rifles shooting their best. Add this cleaning rod to your collection and see how much you can improve your shooting experience.