First Thoughts on the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake
The Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake promises a faster, easier way to clean your firearm. Hoppes has been a trusted name in gun care for generations, and the Boresnake aims to simplify a traditionally tedious task. Does it live up to the hype, or is it just another gimmick? I’ve spent over a decade in the tactical gear industry, and I’m always looking for efficient solutions.
My primary need was for a compact and rapid cleaning system for my 9mm pistols used in training courses. Time is precious during these courses, and deep cleaning can be pushed to the end of the day. I wanted something that could quickly remove residue between drills.
Upon unboxing, the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake comes neatly packaged in its “snake head” carrying case. The kit also includes Hoppes No. 9 solvent, lubricating oil, and Weatherguard cloths, giving you everything needed for a quick clean. My first impression was that it felt lightweight, but the construction seemed robust enough for regular use. Compared to traditional cleaning rods and patches, the Boresnake appeared much simpler and potentially faster. I chose this over separate rods and brushes due to its all-in-one design and claim of speed. I was cautiously optimistic; the concept is appealing, but the execution is what truly matters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake at an outdoor shooting range after a rigorous pistol qualification session. The weather was dry and dusty, creating a significant amount of carbon buildup in my Glock 19. Using the Boresnake was surprisingly simple. A few drops of Hoppes No. 9 solvent on the bronze brush section, followed by pulling the snake through the bore, seemed to do the trick. The bore looked noticeably cleaner after just a few passes. I did observe some initial resistance when pulling the Boresnake through, due to the tight fit of the brush.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake has become a regular part of my cleaning routine. It remains effective at removing loose carbon and fouling. The durability seems good; the bronze brush shows no signs of significant wear, and the rope material hasn’t frayed. Cleaning the Boresnake itself is easy. Simply washing it with warm, soapy water and letting it air dry does the trick. Compared to the mess of traditional cleaning methods with patches and rods, the Boresnake offers a much cleaner and faster experience. It outperforms in convenience and speed, but a full, detailed cleaning is still needed on occasion.
Breaking Down the Features of Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake
Specifications
- Type: Rope Cleaning Kit. This speaks to the portability and ease of use.
- Size: 357-38 Cal/9mm Pistol. It is specifically designed for these calibers, ensuring a proper fit.
- Pieces: 4. This includes the Boresnake, solvent, oil, and Weatherguard cloths.
- Bristle Type: Bronze. Bronze bristles effectively remove carbon buildup without damaging the bore.
- Includes: Boresnake/Cleaner/Oil. This creates an all-in-one solution.
- Case Material: Nylon. The nylon case is durable and easily portable.
- Caliber or Gauge: 9mm,357,380,38 Cal. Provides a versatile cleaning solution.
Performance & Functionality
The Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake performs admirably for quick cleanings. It effectively removes loose fouling and carbon buildup from the bore. The bronze brush provides adequate scrubbing power, and the trailing rope swabs up the residue. The primary weakness is that it doesn’t replace a thorough cleaning with a rod and patches for heavily fouled firearms. It meets expectations as a quick and convenient cleaning tool, but not as a complete replacement for traditional methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake is simple and functional. The rope is durable and easy to grip, even with wet hands. There is almost no learning curve involved. The entire kit is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a range bag.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake should last a reasonably long time. The bronze brush is resistant to wear, and the rope material is durable. Maintaining the Boresnake is easy. Regular cleaning with soap and water prevents buildup and extends its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake kit includes Hoppes No. 9 solvent and lubricating oil. These are standard products and can be easily replaced with other brands if preferred. There aren’t many customization options for a product like this. The real customization is in what solvent and oil you prefer to use with it. The included Weatherguard cloths can be swapped out for your preferred brand as well.
Pros and Cons of Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake
Pros
- Extremely fast and convenient for quick cleanings at the range.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry.
- Simple to use with minimal learning curve.
- Includes solvent, oil, and cleaning cloths for a complete cleaning solution.
- Hoppes No. 9 solvent has a strong reputation.
Cons
- Does not replace a thorough cleaning with a rod and patches for heavy fouling.
- Price is $297.46, which is high.
Who Should Buy Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake?
The Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake is perfect for frequent shooters who need a quick and convenient way to clean their firearms at the range. It’s also suitable for law enforcement or military personnel who require a lightweight and portable cleaning solution. Those who prioritize a deep, meticulous cleaning process after every shooting session might find the Boresnake insufficient. A quality bore light is a must-have to ensure the bore is sufficiently clean after each pass.
Conclusion on Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake
The Hoppes 357/9MM Quick Cleaning Boresnake delivers on its promise of speed and convenience. It’s a valuable tool for maintaining firearms in the field and at the range. However, at $297.46, the price is extremely high and not justified for what it provides. I would recommend this for its ease of use, but only if it were at a more reasonable price point. Look for it on sale.