Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal Review

First Thoughts on the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is a seemingly simple, yet potentially significant tool for any serious firearm owner. Marketed by Hoppes, a name synonymous with gun care, this cleaning jag promises a deeper, more effective cleaning experience. It’s designed to work with Hoppes Elite cleaning rods and others utilizing the 8/32 threading, fitting the niche of smaller caliber firearms.

As a dedicated small-bore enthusiast, I was constantly battling the frustrating reality of inadequate cleaning. Traditional patches often seemed to merely smear fouling, especially in the tighter confines of .17 and .20 caliber barrels. I was searching for something that would aggressively lift residue and ensure a truly clean bore, something that could complement my usual bore solvents and brushes.

Upon receiving the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal, I was immediately drawn to its solid construction. It feels more robust than the cheaper, plastic jags I’ve used in the past. The design, with its sharp point intended to pierce the cleaning patch, seemed like a genuinely innovative approach to achieving a thorough clean.

Compared to standard slotted jags or even some of the looped designs, the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Jag stood out. I considered the Tipton Best Bore Jags, but the Hoppes design seemed more focused on small-caliber precision. Initial impressions were positive; I felt like I had a tool that could truly make a difference in my cleaning routine.

I was excited to test its ability to remove stubborn fouling and lead residue, especially after a long day at the range with my .17 HMR. If it delivered on its promise, it would become an invaluable addition to my cleaning kit. My initial excitement outweighed any potential disappointments, and I eagerly anticipated its first use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal occurred after a day of varmint hunting with my .17 HMR rifle. I set up my cleaning station in the garage, eager to see how the jag performed after firing over a hundred rounds. The conditions were dry and dusty, typical for late summer in my region.

Using it was surprisingly straightforward. After attaching it to my Hoppes Elite cleaning rod, I carefully pierced a cleaning patch and began pushing it through the bore. The piercing point did indeed seem to help the patch grip the rifling more effectively.

One issue I immediately noticed was that the patch sometimes bunched up slightly at the muzzle. This required a bit of finesse to prevent damaging the crown. Despite this minor hiccup, the jag did a significantly better job of removing carbon and powder residue compared to my old slotted jag.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal has proven to be a reliable component of my cleaning routine. It has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or corrosion, even with frequent use of various bore solvents.

Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually all that’s needed. I’ve found that using it in conjunction with a high-quality bore solvent like Hoppes Elite Gun Cleaner maximizes its effectiveness.

Compared to my previous cleaning methods, the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Jag delivers a noticeably cleaner bore. My rifles have shown improved accuracy and consistency after thorough cleaning sessions with this jag. It outperforms standard slotted jags, particularly in removing stubborn fouling.

Breaking Down the Features of Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal

Specifications

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is designed for use with firearms chambered in .17 to .20 caliber. It features standard 8/32 threading, ensuring compatibility with most popular cleaning rod systems, including the Hoppes Elite line. The construction consists of durable, solvent-resistant materials.

The key feature is the pierce point itself, designed to create a secure fit between the patch and the bore. This allows for a more aggressive and comprehensive cleaning action. This specification is crucial for maintaining accuracy in small-caliber firearms.

Performance & Functionality

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal excels at its primary function: effectively cleaning the bore of a firearm. The pierce point design allows the patch to maintain consistent contact with the rifling, ensuring thorough removal of fouling.

Its strength lies in its ability to scrub the bore more effectively than standard jags. A minor weakness is the potential for patch bunching, which can be mitigated with careful technique. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a cleaning jag in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is well-designed for its intended purpose. The materials used give it a solid, durable feel in hand. Its light weight ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the cleaning rod.

The design is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or techniques to use effectively. The learning curve is virtually nonexistent. Even a novice gun owner can quickly learn to use it.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is built to last. The durable materials and simple design suggest it will withstand years of regular use. With proper care, it should easily outlast cheaper, less robust cleaning jags.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. A simple wipe-down after each use is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The solvent-resistant construction means it can withstand harsh cleaning chemicals without degradation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal itself does not come with any specific accessories. Its primary customization aspect is its compatibility with various cleaning rods and patch sizes. It’s designed to work seamlessly with the Hoppes Elite cleaning system and other rods with 8/32 threading.

It’s also compatible with a wide range of cleaning patches available from various manufacturers. This versatility ensures it can be tailored to individual cleaning preferences and needs. The standard threading allows for broad compatibility.

Pros and Cons of Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal

Who Should Buy Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal?

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is perfect for:

• Owners of .17 and .20 caliber firearms who want a deeper, more thorough clean.
• Shooters seeking to improve accuracy and consistency through meticulous cleaning.
• Gun owners looking for a durable and reliable cleaning tool at an affordable price.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who:

• Primarily own larger caliber firearms (different sizes are available).
• Are satisfied with the performance of basic slotted jags.

Must-have accessories for optimal use include:

• A high-quality bore solvent designed for removing carbon and lead fouling.
• Appropriately sized cleaning patches for .17-.20 caliber firearms.
• A sturdy cleaning rod with 8/32 threading.

Conclusion on Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal

The Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about maintaining the accuracy and longevity of their small-bore firearms. Its innovative pierce point design and durable construction make it a standout performer in its category. It facilitates a noticeably deeper and more effective cleaning process than traditional jags.

At a price of only $3.49, the value proposition is undeniable. It is a small investment that yields significant improvements in cleaning effectiveness. The price is easily justified by the improved cleaning performance and durable build.

I would absolutely recommend the Hoppes Elite Pierce Point Cleaning Jag .17 Cal – .20 Cal to any .17 or .20 caliber firearm owner. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable tool that will help you keep your firearm in top condition. Upgrade your cleaning kit today and experience the difference a truly clean bore can make!