HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE Review

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE Made a Bold First Impression

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE BoreSnake cleaning kit. It’s a simple, yet ingenious device promising to be the “fastest bore cleaner on the planet.” As someone who’s spent over a decade meticulously cleaning firearms in the field and at the workbench, I approached this claim with a healthy dose of skepticism.

My standard cleaning kit is extensive. It includes rods, brushes, patches, solvents, and lubricants—a ritual almost as important as the range day itself. I was looking for something to streamline the process. This was especially true for quick cleanings at the range or in less-than-ideal environments.

The initial unboxing was…underwhelming. It’s a rope with a bronze brush section, a weighted end, and a molded plastic storage container. The weight of the rope felt substantial. The stitching appeared robust, a good sign for longevity.

I considered other bore cleaning methods like traditional rods and patch systems and even more elaborate ultrasonic cleaners. I chose the HOPPES BoreSnake due to its packability and purported speed. It claimed to offer a three-step cleaning process in a single pass. I was hoping for efficiency without sacrificing thoroughness.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. Could this simple device truly replace my detailed cleaning process? Only time and testing would tell if the HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE could live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE took place at an outdoor shooting range. The day was relatively dry but a bit dusty. I wanted to test it after putting about 100 rounds through my Smith & Wesson Model 686 .357 Magnum revolver.

Using the BoreSnake was surprisingly easy. I attached a few drops of Hoppe’s No. 9 solvent to the leading section of the snake as instructed. Then, I dropped the weighted end through the bore and pulled it through from breech to muzzle. The resistance felt significant, indicating the bronze brush was doing its job.

The process was incredibly quick, taking perhaps 30 seconds. After that first pass, the majority of the fouling was gone. However, I noticed some lingering residue. I performed a second pass to ensure a thorough cleaning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE has become a mainstay in my range bag. It is especially useful for quick cleanings after shooting sessions. It’s also great for a preliminary clean before a more detailed cleaning at home.

The BoreSnake has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite being used on multiple firearms. The bronze brush section remains intact and effective.

Maintenance is simple: machine washing. After a few uses, it does accumulate carbon buildup, but a quick wash restores it to near-new condition. Compared to traditional cleaning methods, it’s significantly faster. However, it doesn’t completely replace the need for detailed cleaning with rods and brushes for deep fouling.

Breaking Down the Features of HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE

Specifications

• Caliber Compatibility: Designed for .357 Magnum, 9mm, .380 ACP, and .38 Special firearms. This versatility makes it suitable for multiple guns.
• Type: Bore cleaner rope. It is designed to clean the bore with a single pull-through motion.
• Construction: A one-piece design featuring an integrated bronze brush and a cleaning area 160 times larger than a standard patch. The one-piece design eliminates the risk of separating components.
• Pull Cord: Features a brass weight stamped with the size. This makes it easy to identify the correct BoreSnake for your firearm.
• Packability: Extremely packable and easy to store. The small size makes it ideal for range bags and field kits.

Performance & Functionality

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE performs admirably for a quick cleaning solution. It effectively removes loose powder residue and fouling in one or two passes. The bronze brush effectively scrubs the bore.

Its primary strength lies in its speed and ease of use. However, it does not replace the need for a thorough cleaning with traditional tools. It struggles with deeply embedded carbon fouling.

The HOPPES BoreSnake generally meets expectations for a portable cleaning tool. It is perfect for maintaining firearms during range sessions. However, it is not a substitute for comprehensive cleaning.

Design & Ergonomics

The HOPPES BoreSnake boasts a simple yet effective design. It is lightweight and easy to handle, even with gloved hands.

Its user-friendliness is one of its greatest assets. Minimal instruction is needed to use it effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The BoreSnake is surprisingly durable. The one-piece construction minimizes potential failure points.

It is also machine washable, making maintenance straightforward and easy. This ensures longevity even with frequent use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE itself doesn’t have customization options. However, it pairs well with cleaning solvents and lubricants.

The HOPPES No. 9 Lubricating Oil or HOPPES Elite Gun Oil will enhance its cleaning performance. It is also compatible with most standard gun cleaning accessories.

Pros and Cons of HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE

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Who Should Buy HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE?

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE is perfect for range enthusiasts. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters and anyone needing a quick cleaning solution in the field.

Those seeking a deep, meticulous cleaning should stick with traditional cleaning methods. This includes competitive shooters or anyone dealing with heavily fouled firearms.

A quality gun cleaning solvent like Hoppe’s No. 9 and a good gun oil are must-have accessories. These can enhance the BoreSnake’s cleaning and lubricating capabilities.

Conclusion on HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE

The HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE BoreSnake delivers on its promise of speed and convenience. It offers a valuable addition to any shooter’s cleaning kit.

At a price of $8.49, it is an absolute steal. The benefits far outweigh the cost for anyone valuing efficiency.

I would highly recommend it for quick cleanings and maintaining firearms between detailed sessions. If you’re looking for a fast, portable, and effective cleaning tool, the HOPPES 357 9MM 380 38 CALIBER PISTOL & REVOLVE is a must-have. Get yours today and experience the fastest bore cleaning on the planet!

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