First Thoughts on the Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam promises a convenient and quick way to clean your shotgun. Many shooters, especially those with busy schedules or limited cleaning space, will find the allure of a one-pull cleaning system hard to resist. Does this product live up to the hype, or is it just another piece of kit destined to gather dust in your range bag?
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of cleaning kits, some ingenious, others downright awful. I was searching for a simple cleaning solution that wouldn’t require hauling my entire cleaning bench to the range every time I needed a quick scrub. The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam looked like it might fit the bill, offering both the convenience of a Boresnake and the inclusion of CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, and Preservative).
My initial impression was positive, although the “clam” packaging felt a bit cheap. The Boresnake itself seemed well-constructed, and the included CLP appeared to be a decent quality product. Compared to a traditional cleaning rod, patches, brushes, and solvents, the Boresnake offers a significantly more compact and streamlined solution. I chose this over other simpler boresnakes due to the included CLP, which promised an all-in-one cleaning solution in a convenient package.
I was cautiously optimistic. A quick and easy cleaning solution for my shotgun sounded great, but I was also wary of potential drawbacks, like inadequate cleaning or damage to the bore. Only real-world testing would reveal the true value of the Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam was at the local shooting range after a morning of clay shooting. The weather was dry and relatively warm, typical for a late summer day, but the shotgun was definitely showing signs of fouling. The convenience of the Boresnake was immediately apparent.
A few drops of the included CLP at the chamber end and a steady pull through the bore was all it took. The Boresnake seemed to remove a good amount of residue. I did find that a couple of passes were needed to get the bore reasonably clean.
There were no immediate issues. The Boresnake pulled through smoothly, and the CLP seemed to dissolve powder residue effectively. I noticed a slightly tighter fit than expected, but it wasn’t difficult to pull through.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam after each shooting session, I can attest to its convenience. The Boresnake has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of fraying or damage to the bronze brushes.
The durability seems solid, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. Cleaning the Boresnake itself is easy; a quick wash with soap and water, followed by air drying, keeps it in good condition. Compared to my traditional cleaning rod and patches, the Boresnake is a breeze to maintain.
However, I’ve also come to realize that it’s not a complete replacement for a thorough cleaning. For a deep clean, especially after shooting corrosive ammunition or leaving the shotgun unused for an extended period, a traditional cleaning is still necessary. The Boresnake excels as a quick, post-shooting maintenance tool. It’s good, but not perfect.
Breaking Down the Features of Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam
Specifications
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns. It consists of a Boresnake pull-through bore cleaner integrated with a bottle of CLP. The Boresnake features an integrated bronze brush to loosen fouling and woven floss to swab the bore clean.
The CLP is a cleaner, lubricant, and protectant designed to dissolve powder residue, lubricate moving parts, and protect against rust and corrosion. These specifications are important because they address the key needs of shotgun maintenance: removing fouling and protecting the firearm. The clam packaging keeps everything together in a compact, portable unit.
Performance & Functionality
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam performs well as a quick and easy cleaning solution for light fouling. It’s certainly not a substitute for a deep cleaning with a rod, brushes, and solvent. It’s ideal for maintaining a relatively clean bore after a shooting session.
The primary strength is its convenience. The weakness lies in its inability to remove heavy fouling or address issues beyond the bore. For what it is designed to do – a quick clean – it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boresnake’s design is simple and effective. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry in a range bag or hunting pack. The build quality appears solid. The integrated bronze brush and floss seem durable, and the handle is comfortable to grip.
There’s virtually no learning curve. It is a user-friendly design. Anyone can use this effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boresnake should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The bronze brush and floss are the most vulnerable parts, but they appear to be well-constructed. Maintenance is simple: wash with soap and water and air dry.
With responsible care and use, the Boresnake should provide years of service. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam comes with the Boresnake itself and a bottle of CLP. There are no customization options for the Boresnake itself. However, the user can use different CLPs if preferred once the original bottle runs out.
The Boresnake is designed to be compatible with any standard 12-gauge shotgun. Its simplicity means no other accessories are required for it to function.
Pros and Cons of Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam
Pros
- Convenient and easy to use for quick cleaning.
- Integrated bronze brush and floss for effective fouling removal.
- Compact and portable design, perfect for range bags.
- Includes CLP for cleaning, lubrication, and protection.
- Simple maintenance; easy to clean and store.
Cons
- Not a replacement for a deep cleaning with traditional tools.
- May not be effective for heavy fouling or rust removal.
Who Should Buy Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam?
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam is perfect for shotgun owners who want a quick and easy way to maintain their firearm after shooting. It’s ideal for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone who wants to prevent fouling build-up between thorough cleanings. This is great for anyone who prioritizes convenience and portability.
Those who require a deep clean or frequently use corrosive ammunition should skip this product. If you need to remove heavy fouling or rust, stick to traditional cleaning methods. A high-quality gun cleaning kit might be a must-have accessory to keep alongside the Boresnake for comprehensive cleaning tasks.
Conclusion on Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam
The Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam offers a convenient and effective way to perform quick cleanings on your 12-gauge shotgun. It’s not a replacement for a deep clean, but it’s an excellent tool for maintaining a clean bore after shooting. The price of $19.99 is justified by the convenience and time savings it provides.
I would recommend the Boresnake w/ CLP Cleaning Kit 12GA Shotgun Clam to anyone looking for a simple and portable cleaning solution. It’s a valuable addition to any shooter’s range bag. Pick one up today and experience the convenience for yourself.