The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning a firearm is a necessary evil, a task often relegated to the end of a long day at the range or a grueling hunt. The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod aims to make that chore a little less painful, promising portability and functionality for the often-overlooked .17 caliber rifles. It’s a compact, multi-section rod designed for ease of use and storage, a feature that immediately caught my eye.
I was on the hunt for a truly portable cleaning solution for my .17 HMR. My usual cleaning rod was cumbersome, taking up too much space in my range bag and making field cleaning practically impossible. I’d been eyeing a few other options, including a bore snake and a one-piece coated rod. However, the Kleen Bore system’s combination of segmented design and included attachments seemed the most versatile for my needs.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the compact vinyl pouch. The compartmentalized design kept everything organized and prevented the rod sections from scratching each other. The black oxide finish on the steel rod sections looked durable, and the swivel nylon handle felt comfortable in my hand. Compared to a bore snake, it felt more robust and capable of tackling heavier fouling.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod appeared well-made and thoughtfully designed. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it could truly deliver on its promise of convenient and effective cleaning.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod came after a day at the range, where I put about 200 rounds through my .17 HMR. The range was outdoors and quite dusty, meaning the rifle needed a thorough cleaning. The rod assembled easily and felt sturdy enough as I ran it through the bore.
The nylon swivel handle worked smoothly, allowing the rod to rotate freely with the rifling. However, I quickly realized that the patch jag was a bit small for my preferred cleaning patches; I had to double them over to get a snug fit. This wasn’t a major issue, but it was a minor inconvenience that required adjusting my usual cleaning routine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of bending or breakage in the rod sections, and the black oxide finish is still intact. I’ve also noticed some slight wear on the phosphor bronze brush but nothing out of the ordinary, especially considering the amount of use it sees.
Maintenance is simple. I wipe down the rod sections with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Compared to my previous cleaning rod, the Kleen Bore is much easier to store and transport, making it a clear winner in terms of convenience. The compact size means that it’s now a permanent fixture in my range bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod
Specifications
The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod is designed specifically for .17 caliber rifles. This ensures a proper fit and effective cleaning without damaging the bore.
The rod consists of three sections, each constructed from steel with a black oxide finish. This provides durability and corrosion resistance.
When fully assembled, the rod measures 34 inches in length. This is sufficient for cleaning most .17 caliber rifle barrels, including those with longer barrels.
The rod features a swivel nylon handle. This allows for smooth rotation and prevents the rod from binding within the bore.
The kit includes a phosphor bronze brush, a cotton bore mop, and a patch jag. These accessories provide a complete cleaning solution for removing fouling and debris.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and longevity of the cleaning rod. The appropriate caliber ensures a proper fit, while the durable materials and swivel handle contribute to ease of use and effective cleaning. The included accessories ensure that you have everything you need to get the job done.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod performs its primary function – cleaning a .17 caliber rifle bore – effectively. The rod sections assemble securely, providing a stable platform for pushing the brush or mop through the barrel. The swivel handle greatly aids in this process by allowing for smooth, controlled rotation.
One slight weakness is the size of the included patch jag, which, as mentioned, requires doubled-over patches for optimal fit. The phosphor bronze brush does an excellent job of scrubbing away stubborn carbon deposits and lead fouling. Ultimately, the Kleen Bore rod meets my expectations for a portable and functional cleaning tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod prioritizes portability and ease of use. The multi-section design allows the rod to be disassembled and stored in a compact vinyl pouch. The nylon handle is comfortable to grip, and the swivel feature enhances control during cleaning.
The build quality is generally good, with durable materials and a robust finish. While not luxurious, the Kleen Bore rod feels like a tool that will last. There is a very slight learning curve associated with assembling the rod sections, but it’s intuitive and quickly mastered.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel rod sections and black oxide finish contribute to the overall durability of the Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod. With proper care, the rod should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe down the rod sections after each use and apply a light coat of oil as needed.
The phosphor bronze brush will eventually wear out and need replacing. These can easily be sourced from most gun stores, ensuring that the cleaning rod can continue to be used effectively.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod kit includes a phosphor bronze brush, a cotton bore mop, and a patch jag. These accessories are sufficient for basic cleaning. However, there are limited customization options available.
You could potentially use different types of brushes or mops with the rod. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited due to the specific threading and size of the rod sections.
Pros and Cons of Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod
Pros
- Portable and compact design, ideal for range bags and field cleaning.
- Durable steel construction with a black oxide finish.
- Swivel handle allows for smooth and controlled cleaning.
- Includes essential cleaning accessories: brush, mop, and jag.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Patch jag is slightly small, requiring doubled-over patches.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod?
The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod is perfect for .17 HMR or .17 WSM rifle owners who prioritize portability and convenience in their cleaning tools. It’s an excellent choice for shooters who frequently visit the range or hunt in the field and need a compact cleaning solution. Casual shooters who simply want an affordable and effective way to clean their .17 caliber rifles will also find it appealing.
This product may not be ideal for those who prefer a one-piece cleaning rod or require extensive customization options. Competitive shooters who demand the highest level of precision and control may also find it lacking compared to more expensive cleaning systems.
A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality cleaning patches that fit the jag more snugly. You could also consider purchasing a bore guide to further protect the bore of your rifle during cleaning.
Conclusion on Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod
The Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod is a solid and practical cleaning tool that offers excellent value for its price. While not perfect, its portability, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to any .17 caliber rifle owner’s range bag. The compact design is a standout feature.
The price is definitely justified. It provides a complete and effective cleaning solution without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Kleen Bore .17 Caliber Small Bore Cleaning Rod to anyone looking for a convenient and affordable way to maintain their .17 caliber rifle. It’s a reliable tool that will help keep your rifle clean and performing at its best. Grab yours today and experience the convenience of a truly portable cleaning solution!