The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal Made a Bold First Impression
The quest for maintaining peak accuracy in my .17 caliber rifles has been a long and winding road. Finding the right cleaning tools is paramount for any serious shooter. That’s why the Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal immediately caught my eye; it promised a simple, effective, and reusable solution for bore maintenance.
I was looking for a reliable way to remove fouling without damaging the delicate rifling of my .17 HMR. Cheap, disposable patches often leave lint behind, and harsh brushes can do more harm than good. The promise of a 100% cotton, washable bore mop seemed like the perfect balance of gentle cleaning power and long-term value. Compared to using traditional patches or bore snakes, this seemed like a more targeted approach. My initial thoughts were cautiously optimistic.
Upon receiving the Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal, I was pleased by its simple design. The mop felt well-constructed, with securely attached cotton fibers and a standard #5-40 thread. While I’ve used similar products from Hoppe’s and Pro-Shot in the past, the Breakthrough Clean‘s claim of being 100% cotton and easily washable swayed my decision. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. At $2.99, the price seemed reasonable, and if it performed as advertised, it would be a worthwhile investment.
My first impression was positive. The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal felt like a step up from the disposable patches I was used to.
Real-World Testing: Putting Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal was at my local shooting range after a session with my .17 HMR. I typically shoot about 100 rounds before cleaning, which leaves a noticeable amount of carbon fouling. I applied a small amount of Breakthrough Clean solvent to the mop and ran it through the bore several times.
The mop glided smoothly through the bore, effectively picking up residue. Even with the solvent, I noticed a significant difference in the ease of cleaning compared to patches alone. There were no noticeable snags or issues, and the mop felt secure on my cleaning rod.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple range trips, the Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal has become a staple in my cleaning kit. It has consistently delivered excellent results. I’ve used it with various solvents and oils, and it has held up remarkably well.
After each cleaning session, I simply wash the mop with warm water and a mild detergent, and allow it to air dry. The cotton fibers remain intact, and there’s no sign of significant wear and tear. Compared to my previous reliance on disposable patches, this mop has saved me time and money while providing a more thorough clean. This bore mop has exceeded my expectations; it is now an indispensable tool in my cleaning arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal
Specifications
- The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal is specifically designed for .17 caliber rifles, providing a precise fit for optimal cleaning. Its caliber-specific design ensures thorough and effective fouling removal.
- The bore mop is constructed from 100% cotton, a soft and absorbent material that is gentle on rifle barrels. This material choice minimizes the risk of scratching or damaging the rifling.
- Featuring a standard #5-40 thread, the bore mop is compatible with most standard cleaning rods, making it easy to integrate into existing cleaning kits. The standardized threading ensures versatility and convenience.
- The bore mop is washable and reusable, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable cleaning patches. This reusability makes it a practical and sustainable choice.
Performance & Functionality
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal excels at removing carbon fouling, powder residue, and other debris from rifle bores. It does so with a gentle yet effective cleaning action. Its soft cotton construction ensures that the bore is cleaned without causing scratches or damage.
The mop’s design allows it to conform to the bore’s shape, reaching into the grooves of the rifling for a thorough cleaning. One minor weakness is that it can become saturated quickly with solvent, requiring multiple applications for heavily fouled barrels. However, the overall performance far outweighs this minor inconvenience, making it a valuable tool for maintaining rifle accuracy and longevity.
Design & Ergonomics
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal features a simple, functional design. It is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a comfortable tool to use during cleaning.
There is no learning curve; it attaches easily to any standard cleaning rod. Its straightforward design makes it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal is designed for longevity. The 100% cotton construction is durable enough to withstand repeated use and washing.
Maintaining the bore mop is simple: just wash it with warm water and a mild detergent, and allow it to air dry. This ease of maintenance ensures that the mop remains in good condition for extended use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal is primarily a standalone cleaning tool and doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, it integrates seamlessly with other cleaning products, such as solvents, oils, and cleaning rods.
It is compatible with a wide range of cleaning rods that utilize the standard #5-40 thread. This compatibility enhances its versatility and makes it a valuable addition to any cleaning kit.
Pros and Cons of Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal
Pros
- Effective cleaning: Removes fouling and residue effectively without damaging the bore.
- Reusable and washable: Offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable patches.
- Gentle on barrel: Made from 100% cotton, minimizing the risk of scratches or damage.
- Easy to use: Attaches to standard cleaning rods with a #5-40 thread.
- Affordable: Priced at $2.99, it is an accessible and worthwhile investment.
Cons
- Can become saturated quickly with solvent, requiring multiple applications.
- Requires washing and drying after each use, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Who Should Buy Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal?
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal is perfect for .17 caliber rifle owners who prioritize maintaining accuracy and extending the life of their firearms. It is also ideal for shooters looking for a reusable and environmentally friendly cleaning solution. Target shooters who demand the utmost accuracy will find it very helpful.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer the convenience of disposable cleaning patches or who are looking for an all-in-one cleaning solution. Must-have accessories include a high-quality cleaning rod with a compatible #5-40 thread and a reliable bore solvent.
Conclusion on Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal
The Breakthrough Clean BT17BM Bore Mop – .17 Cal is a simple yet effective tool that delivers on its promises. At a price of $2.99, it represents excellent value.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable, reusable, and gentle cleaning solution for their .17 caliber rifles. Upgrade your cleaning kit today and experience the difference a quality bore mop can make!