The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned firearms enthusiast, I’ve seen my fair share of cleaning kits, from bulky range behemoths to flimsy, single-use disposables. When I first laid eyes on the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C from Pro-Shot, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of portability and comprehensive cleaning power. This kit isn’t just another generic offering; it’s a purpose-built solution for maintaining your handguns on the go.
My need for a compact cleaning solution stemmed from my concealed carry lifestyle. I needed something small enough to stow in my range bag or even my tactical pants pocket, yet capable of thoroughly cleaning my EDC (Every Day Carry) pistol after a range session or, heaven forbid, after a defensive use. I had been using a hodgepodge of patches and solvents stuffed into a Ziploc bag, which was far from ideal.
Unboxing the kit, I was impressed with the thoughtful design. The Coyote EVA zippered pouch feels durable and well-constructed. The components inside are neatly organized, and the removable accessory tray is a nice touch. My first impression was definitely positive; this kit felt professional and well-suited for its intended purpose.
Compared to other compact kits I’ve used, like the Otis Technology Defender Series or the Hoppe’s Universal Cleaning Kit, the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C seemed to strike a better balance between size, comprehensiveness, and quality. The Otis kit is smaller, but sacrifices caliber versatility. The Hoppe’s kit is more universal, but its components feel less durable. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a genuinely useful, all-in-one cleaning solution that wouldn’t weigh me down.
Real-World Testing: Putting COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C was at my local indoor range after a 150-round practice session with my Glock 19 (9mm). The range’s ventilation wasn’t great, so my pistol was noticeably dirtier than usual. Using the kit was straightforward.
The included Step 1 Cleaner worked effectively to dissolve powder residue and fouling. The patches were the right size and thickness for thorough cleaning. I found the T-handle to be comfortable and easy to grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. No issues or surprises arose during the first use; the kit performed as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and cleaning sessions with both my 9mm and .45 ACP pistols, the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C continues to impress. The Coyote EVA pouch has proven surprisingly resilient to wear and tear. There is no fraying or zipper issues.
The brass patch puller and nylon bore brush are holding up well, showing no signs of premature degradation. Cleaning the kit is simple. I just wipe down the components and let them air dry. Compared to my previous cleaning methods, this kit is vastly superior in terms of convenience, organization, and effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C
Specifications
The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C from Pro-Shot includes the following components:
- Caliber Compatibility: 9mm, .357, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and all handgun calibers in between. This versatility makes it a great option for multi-gun owners.
- Pouch: Coyote EVA zippered pouch, designed for concealed carry and easy storage. The pouch’s compact size is perfect for range bags or tactical pants pockets.
- Cleaner: One quarter ounce bottle of Step 1 Cleaner. This solvent effectively removes powder residue and fouling.
- Patches: 2 1/4″ Cleaning Patches. The patches are sized appropriately for the included calibers.
- Accessory Tray: Removable accessory tray for organized storage. This helps keep the components separate and easily accessible.
- Handle: Black T Handle. The T handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- Rod Sections: Two 3″ Rod sections. These rod sections combine to provide sufficient length for cleaning most handgun barrels.
- Patch Puller: Brass Patch puller. The brass puller is durable and won’t damage the bore.
- Bore Brush: Nylon Bore brush. The nylon brush effectively removes stubborn fouling.
- Bore Light: Chamber flag bore light. The bore light allows for a clear view of the barrel’s interior.
- Instructions: Included instructions for proper cleaning procedures. Even experienced shooters can benefit from a refresher on best practices.
Performance & Functionality
The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C excels at its primary function: cleaning pistols. The Step 1 Cleaner effectively dissolves fouling, while the patches and brushes remove it from the bore.
The T-handle provides good leverage, making cleaning easier. The inclusion of a bore light is a significant plus, allowing for visual confirmation of cleanliness. The kit meets my expectations for a compact, portable cleaning solution.
While the kit is very effective, it does have some limitations. The solvent bottle is small, and may need to be replenished fairly quickly with frequent use. The two-section rod, while compact, can be slightly unwieldy compared to a one-piece rod.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coyote EVA pouch is well-designed and provides excellent protection for the kit’s components. The removable tray is a thoughtful addition that helps keep everything organized. The T-handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip.
The overall weight of the kit is minimal, making it ideal for concealed carry or stowing in a range bag. There is very little learning curve; the kit is intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The components of the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C appear to be reasonably durable. The brass patch puller and nylon bore brush should last for a considerable time with proper care. The Coyote EVA pouch is also durable.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the components and allow them to air dry. Regular inspection of the brush and patch puller is recommended to ensure they are in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C comes with everything you need to clean your pistols. There are no direct customization options for the kit itself.
The most logical “customization” would be to supplement the included solvent with a larger bottle of Pro-Shot Step 1 Cleaner, or to add your preferred gun oil for lubrication after cleaning. The kit is also compatible with most standard-sized cleaning patches and bore brushes.
Pros and Cons of COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C
Pros
- Compact and portable design, ideal for concealed carry and range bags.
- Comprehensive cleaning kit for multiple pistol calibers (9mm, .357, .40 S&W, .45 ACP).
- Durable Coyote EVA zippered pouch for protection and organization.
- Includes a chamber flag bore light for thorough barrel inspection.
- Affordable price point for a high-quality, U.S.A. made cleaning kit.
Cons
- Small solvent bottle may require frequent refills.
- Two-piece cleaning rod can be slightly less convenient than a one-piece rod.
Who Should Buy COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C?
The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C is perfect for:
- Concealed carry permit holders who need a compact cleaning solution for their EDC pistols.
- Range enthusiasts who want a portable cleaning kit for quick maintenance after shooting sessions.
- Multi-gun owners who need a versatile kit that works with various pistol calibers.
- Anyone seeking an affordable and effective pistol cleaning solution made in the U.S.A.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals who primarily clean long guns (rifles and shotguns), as the rod sections are optimized for pistols.
- Those who prefer highly specialized cleaning kits with advanced tools and solvents, as this kit prioritizes portability and simplicity.
A must-have accessory is a larger bottle of Pro-Shot Step 1 Cleaner or your preferred gun solvent. A quality gun oil for lubrication after cleaning is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C
The COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C from Pro-Shot is a well-designed, portable, and effective solution for maintaining your handguns. Its compact size, comprehensive components, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the price.
The price is absolutely justified. For around $25, you’re getting a high-quality, U.S.A. made cleaning kit that will last for years with proper care.
I personally recommend the COMPACT CONCEALED CARRY PISTOL CLEANING KIT (9MM) .357-.45 C to anyone looking for a convenient and reliable way to keep their pistols clean and functioning optimally. Don’t settle for flimsy, generic cleaning kits. Invest in a Pro-Shot kit and experience the difference. Your firearm will thank you for it! Go ahead, grab one. Your next range day will be much smoother.
