First Thoughts on the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod isn’t exactly the sexiest piece of gear on the market, but it is essential. A quality cleaning rod is crucial for maintaining accuracy and extending the life of any firearm, especially those chambered in the small but potent .17 caliber. The Dewey name is synonymous with quality in gun cleaning, so my expectations were high when I first encountered this rod.
My search for this particular rod stemmed from frustration with cheaper alternatives that scratched my prized .17 HMR rifle’s bore. These cheaper rods often had soft brass or aluminum that quickly wore down, risking damage to the rifling. The promise of a nylon-coated rod that won’t scratch delicate barrels immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the Dewey rod felt noticeably sturdier than my previous cleaning rods. The nylon coating was smooth and even, giving me confidence that it wouldn’t damage my barrel. The handle rotated freely, and the overall construction seemed robust – a far cry from the flimsy rods I had used before.
I considered several other .17 caliber cleaning rods, including those from Bore-Snake and Tipton. I ultimately chose the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod because of Dewey’s reputation for quality. Their proven track record made them a trustworthy choice for protecting my firearm investment.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I hoped this rod would live up to its promise of gentle yet effective cleaning, saving me from the potential headache of a damaged barrel.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod was at the shooting range, immediately after a .17 HMR shooting session. The rifle’s barrel was moderately fouled, so I was eager to see how the rod performed. Using a breech bore guide, as recommended by Dewey, I inserted the rod into the action.
The rod moved smoothly through the barrel without any noticeable resistance or wobble. The nylon coating provided a reassuring feel as it glided across the rifling. After a few passes with a solvent-soaked patch, the bore was noticeably cleaner.
There were no surprises or issues during the first use, only a feeling of confidence that I was using a quality tool. The smooth action and gentle cleaning convinced me that it was a worthwhile investment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear on the nylon coating, and the rod remains straight and true. The handle continues to rotate smoothly, making cleaning a breeze.
The durability of the rod is impressive; it feels like it will last for years with proper care. Cleaning the rod itself is also simple – a quick wipe down with a clean cloth removes any solvent or residue. This rod significantly outperforms cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past.
My previous experiences with flimsy cleaning rods often left me frustrated and concerned about potential damage. The Dewey rod has completely alleviated those concerns, providing a reliable and effective cleaning solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
Specifications
- Caliber: Specifically designed for .17 caliber firearms, including .17 HMR and .17 WSM. This specialized sizing ensures a proper fit and effective cleaning.
- Length: 11 inches of rod length, appropriate for most .17 caliber rifles, but not pistols. The length ensures adequate reach for cleaning typical rifle barrels.
- Coating: Features a tough nylon coating that prevents scratching of delicate rifling. This is a crucial feature for preserving the accuracy and longevity of your firearm.
- Handle: Equipped with a smooth-turning, ball-bearing handle for effortless operation. The rotating handle allows the brush or jag to follow the rifling without binding.
- Thread: Utilizes a 5-40 female thread, which is specific to .17 and .20 caliber rods. This smaller thread size ensures compatibility with .17 caliber brushes and jags.
- Jag: Includes an extra-long Dewey jag designed for wrapped-around or over-the-end patch application. The jag is specifically designed for effective patch retention and bore contact.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rod’s ability to safely and effectively clean a .17 caliber firearm. The nylon coating protects the bore, the rotating handle ensures smooth operation, and the correct thread size guarantees compatibility with cleaning accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function, which is cleaning the bore of a .17 caliber firearm without causing damage, is executed perfectly. Accuracy is crucial for .17 caliber rifles, and this rod helps maintain it.
The rod’s smooth action and the secure fit of the jag and patches contribute to its overall usability. A definite strength is the peace of mind it provides, knowing that the delicate rifling is protected. The 5-40 thread not being compatible with more common 8-32 accessories could be viewed as a limitation, requiring specific .17 caliber attachments.
The rod meets and exceeds expectations, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives. It offers a level of quality and performance that justifies its price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials used throughout. The nylon coating is durable and smooth, and the handle feels comfortable in hand. The overall weight is balanced, making it easy to maneuver within the bore.
The rod is very user-friendly with no learning curve. The rotating handle and smooth nylon coating make cleaning a simple and straightforward process.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod comes with a Dewey jag specifically designed for .17 caliber firearms. This jag is compatible with standard cleaning patches.
The 5-40 thread limits compatibility with some universal cleaning accessories, requiring the use of .17 caliber-specific brushes and jags. Dewey offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including brushes, mops, and slotted tips.
Pros and Cons of Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
Pros
- Gentle nylon coating protects delicate .17 caliber rifling.
- Smooth-turning ball bearing handle for effortless cleaning.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Includes a .17 caliber-specific Dewey jag.
- Easy to use and maintain.
Cons
- 5-40 thread is not compatible with all standard cleaning accessories.
- Relatively short 11-inch length may not be ideal for longer barrels, but is perfect for most .17 caliber rifles.
Who Should Buy Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod?
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is perfect for firearm owners who value accuracy and wish to properly maintain .17 caliber rifles (like .17 HMR or .17 WSM). It is especially valuable for those who want to protect the delicate rifling of their barrels. This rod is a good fit for target shooters, varmint hunters, and anyone who wants to keep their .17 caliber firearm in top condition.
This product may not be the best choice for those who only occasionally clean their firearms, or those who prioritize budget over quality. Anyone looking for a multi-caliber cleaning rod would be better served by a universal kit with interchangeable attachments, though that won’t give the same protection.
A must-have accessory is a quality .17 caliber bore guide, such as those offered by Dewey or other reputable brands. Using a bore guide will help prevent damage to the chamber and rifling.
Conclusion on Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod
The Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod is an excellent investment for anyone who owns a .17 caliber firearm. Its gentle nylon coating, smooth operation, and durable construction make it a top-tier cleaning tool. The price of $18.49 is more than justified by the quality and peace of mind it provides.
I would absolutely recommend the Dewey 17 Caliber 11″ Nylon Coated Rod to fellow firearm enthusiasts. It’s a small price to pay for protecting the investment of a high-quality rifle. Keep your .17 caliber firearm performing at its best – get yourself a Dewey rod and clean with confidence.