First Thoughts on the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade solvent promises a clean sweep of fouling without harming firearm finishes. Marketed as odorless, non-staining, and residue-free, it’s an intriguing prospect for any firearm enthusiast. I was keen to discover if its claims of safety and efficiency held up in practical use.
My interest in Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade stemmed from a need for a solvent that wouldn’t compromise the Cerakote finish on my competition rifle. Harsh chemicals had previously marred the finish on a treasured shotgun, leaving me searching for a safer alternative. The appeal of a solvent specifically designed to be pH neutral and safe on various materials was compelling.
Upon receiving the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade, I immediately noted its compact size. The small bottle felt solid and well-sealed. The absence of any discernible odor was a welcome surprise compared to the overpowering smell of other solvents I’ve used.
Compared to products like Hoppe’s No. 9 or CLP, the Breakthrough solvent distinguishes itself with its odorless nature and claim of complete evaporation. While Hoppe’s No. 9 is a classic with a strong solvent smell, and CLP serves as a cleaner, lubricant, and protectant, Breakthrough focuses solely on cleaning. I chose Breakthrough because of the safety claims and the need to preserve firearm finishes, a feature that other brands, while effective, often overlook.
My first impression of the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade was cautiously optimistic. I was intrigued by its odorless nature and the promise of complete evaporation. The real test would be its effectiveness and whether it lived up to its safety claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade took place after a day at the shooting range with my AR-15. It was a typical dusty environment, leaving carbon fouling throughout the action. I applied the solvent to a bore snake and patches, carefully following the instructions.
The solvent appeared to work effectively, lifting carbon deposits with minimal effort. Even in the dry, dusty range environment, the solvent seemed to cut through the grime efficiently. The ease of use was notable, and the absence of a strong chemical smell was a definite plus.
After the first use, I observed no immediate adverse effects on the rifle’s Cerakote finish. This initial result was encouraging. However, only extended use would confirm its long-term safety.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade on multiple firearms, I’ve gained a solid understanding of its reliability. It consistently performs well in removing fouling from various parts, including barrels, bolts, and triggers. The absence of odor continues to be a major advantage.
The solvent has shown no signs of damaging any finishes, including Cerakote, polymers, and hydro-printing. So far, there are no signs of wear and tear attributed to the solvent itself. The maintenance process is straightforward: apply, scrub, and wipe clean.
Compared to previous experiences with other solvents that left oily residues, the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade surpasses them in terms of cleanliness. It leaves the firearm dry and ready for lubrication. It has met and exceeded expectations, offering a balance of cleaning power and safety that I hadn’t previously found.
Breaking Down the Features of Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade
Specifications
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade solvent is available in a 2-ounce bottle. The primary focus of this solvent is its military-grade cleaning capability. It is specifically designed to remove fouling without leaving any residue.
The solvent’s key specifications include its odorless nature, non-staining properties, and complete evaporation. It boasts a pH neutral formula, making it safe for use on wood, plastics, polymers, Cerakote, and hydro-printing. The flashpoint of 150° F makes it non-flammable, a significant safety feature. These specifications are significant because they address common concerns about firearm cleaning: safety, material compatibility, and user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade excels at its primary function: cleaning firearms. It effectively removes carbon fouling, powder residue, and other contaminants from various firearm components. The solvent is easy to apply and works quickly, reducing cleaning time.
The absence of odor is a significant strength, making the cleaning process more pleasant. A minor weakness is its price per ounce, which is slightly higher than some competing solvents. However, the benefits of its safety and residue-free cleaning justify the cost. The product meets and exceeds my expectations, providing excellent cleaning performance with added safety and convenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade is packaged in a simple, functional bottle. The small size is convenient for storage and transport. The solvent’s liquid consistency allows for easy application with patches, brushes, or bore snakes.
The design is straightforward and user-friendly. There is no learning curve. The absence of a strong chemical odor further enhances the user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The solvent itself does not degrade or expire quickly. Its non-corrosive formula ensures it won’t damage firearm components over time. The bottle is durable enough to withstand normal handling.
Maintaining firearms cleaned with Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade is simplified by its residue-free nature. It reduces the need for additional cleaning steps. Regular application and proper lubrication after cleaning will keep firearms in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade solvent does not come with specific accessories. However, it is compatible with standard cleaning tools, such as bore snakes, cleaning rods, patches, and brushes. The solvent’s compatibility with a wide range of cleaning tools allows users to customize their cleaning process according to their preferences.
It pairs particularly well with nylon brushes for scrubbing stubborn carbon deposits and microfiber cloths for wiping surfaces clean. The solvent’s ability to work effectively with different tools makes it a versatile addition to any firearm cleaning kit.
Pros and Cons of Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade
Pros
- Odorless formula makes cleaning more pleasant.
- pH neutral and safe for various firearm finishes (Cerakote, polymers, etc.).
- Effectively removes carbon fouling and powder residue.
- Non-flammable with a flashpoint of 150° F, enhancing safety.
- Evaporates completely, leaving no residue.
Cons
- Price per ounce is slightly higher than some competing solvents.
- Only available in smaller sizes (2oz bottle), requiring more frequent re-purchasing for heavy users.
Who Should Buy Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade?
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade is perfect for firearm owners who prioritize the safety of their firearm’s finish. This includes competitive shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and anyone with high-value firearms featuring Cerakote, hydro-printing, or delicate wood stocks. It is also ideal for individuals sensitive to strong chemical odors.
Those who prefer a multi-purpose product that cleans, lubricates, and protects might consider alternatives like CLP. Those on a tight budget may find cheaper solvents, though they might sacrifice the safety and residue-free benefits. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of cleaning brushes and microfiber cloths to maximize the solvent’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade
The Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade solvent offers a compelling combination of cleaning power and safety. Its odorless formula, non-staining properties, and residue-free evaporation make it a standout product in the crowded field of firearm cleaning solvents. While the price per ounce is slightly higher than some competitors, the benefits justify the cost for those who value their firearm’s finish and prefer a more pleasant cleaning experience.
The price is justified due to the solvent’s unique benefits. I would personally recommend the Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade to any firearm owner seeking a safe and effective cleaning solution. Take the next step in firearm maintenance and give Breakthrough BTS-2OZ Military-Grade a try.