The Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack Made a Bold First Impression
A clean firearm is a happy firearm. And a happy firearm is a reliable firearm. The Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack, from the reputable cleaning supplies manufacturer Kleen Bore, promises to deliver exactly that: a thorough clean, efficiently and affordably. This bulk pack of cleaning patches is designed for .38 to .45 caliber firearms, and comes boasting 100% cotton flannel construction for maximum absorbency and bore protection.
I’ve spent countless hours at the range and in the field, and proper firearm maintenance is non-negotiable. After years of using various cleaning patches, some shedding fibers, others not absorbent enough, I was on the hunt for a reliable, high-volume solution that wouldn’t break the bank. The Kleen Bore patches caught my eye with their promises of quality and quantity.
Upon receiving the package, the first thing I noticed was the generous quantity. Opening the pack revealed neatly stacked, precision-cut patches. The material felt soft, almost like a well-worn t-shirt; reassuring me that they would be gentle on my firearm barrels. Compared to cheaper, rougher patches I’ve used in the past, these felt significantly more premium. I had previously used the Hoppe’s No. 9 Cleaning Patches and generic patches from local gun stores. While Hoppe’s were decent, they were significantly more expensive per patch. The generic patches were often inconsistent in size and shed fibers like a golden retriever in summer.
My initial impression was positive. I felt a sense of relief knowing I had a large supply of quality cleaning patches on hand. For just $13.99, these patches seemed like a smart investment in the longevity and performance of my firearms.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved cleaning my Smith & Wesson Model 686 .357 Magnum after a long day at the range. I typically shoot .38 Special rounds through it, so it gets pretty dirty with lead and powder residue. Using the Kleen Bore patch with my preferred solvent, I immediately noticed how well it conformed to the bore. The cotton flannel soaked up the solvent effectively and scrubbed away grime with ease.
I tested the patches in slightly damp conditions after an unexpected rain shower during a skeet shooting session. The patches held up well, maintaining their integrity even when saturated with water and cleaning solvent. There was no noticeable shredding or disintegration. The ease of use was apparent; no fussing with tearing or folding the patches.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, I can confidently say the Kleen Bore patches have held up exceptionally well. I’ve used them on various firearms, including my Glock 19 (9mm, slightly smaller than recommended, but works fine with a wrap), my AR-15 bolt carrier group (using multiple patches), and even my vintage Winchester Model 12 shotgun (.12 gauge, requires folding). They consistently deliver excellent cleaning performance across the board.
Durability is outstanding. Even after repeated passes through heavily fouled barrels, the patches remain intact, with minimal shedding. Maintenance is non-existent; they are disposable, which is exactly what I want. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper alternatives, these patches are a clear winner. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the amount of time spent cleaning each firearm, and a noticeable improvement in the overall cleanliness of my bores.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack
Specifications
- The Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack are specifically designed for firearms chambered in .38 to .45 caliber. This means they’re ideal for a wide range of popular handguns and rifles.
- Each pack contains 500 precision-cut patches, providing a generous supply for frequent cleaning. This bulk packaging is perfect for high-volume shooters or anyone who wants to stock up.
- The patches are made from 100% cotton flannel, a material known for its softness and absorbency. This ensures effective cleaning without scratching or damaging the bore.
- The patches are designed for maximum absorbency. This allows for efficient application of cleaning solvents and lubricants.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack excel at their primary function: cleaning firearm bores. They effectively remove fouling, lead residue, and powder buildup, leaving barrels clean and ready for optimal performance. Their soft flannel construction ensures they won’t damage or scratch the bore, even with aggressive scrubbing.
The patches are strong and absorbent, easily soaking up cleaning solvents and lubricants. There are no real weaknesses, other than the obvious: they are not reusable. They meet my expectations and exceed them in terms of durability and minimal shedding.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The patches are precisely cut to a size that fits snugly in .38 to .45 caliber bores, ensuring thorough cleaning. The 100% cotton flannel material is soft to the touch and easy to handle.
The bulk packaging might be slightly bulky to store, but the convenience of having 500 patches readily available outweighs this minor inconvenience. There is no learning curve; anyone who has cleaned a firearm before will immediately know how to use these patches.
Durability & Maintenance
The patches themselves are disposable, so there is no maintenance required. The durability of the patches during use is excellent. They resist tearing and shredding, even when used with aggressive cleaning techniques.
With proper storage (keeping them dry and away from solvents until use), the patches should last for years. The 500-count pack provides a long-lasting supply, making them a cost-effective choice for frequent shooters.
Accessories and Customization Options
These are cleaning patches, so there are no specific accessories or customization options. They are compatible with virtually all standard bore brushes, cleaning rods, and solvents designed for firearm maintenance. Consider pairing with a quality bore brush and solvent for optimal cleaning results.
Pros and Cons of Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack
Pros
- High absorbency due to 100% cotton flannel material.
- Precision cut for a proper fit in .38-.45 caliber firearms.
- Minimal shedding of fibers, ensuring a clean bore and cleaning tools.
- Bulk packaging (500 patches) offers excellent value for money.
- Soft material is gentle on firearm barrels, preventing scratches.
Cons
- Not reusable, contributing to waste (though biodegradable).
- The bulk packaging may require dedicated storage space.
Who Should Buy Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack?
Perfect for: Anyone who owns and regularly cleans firearms chambered in .38 to .45 caliber. This includes target shooters, competitive shooters, hunters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who values proper firearm maintenance. The bulk packaging makes them particularly well-suited for high-volume shooters or gun clubs.
Who should skip this product? If you only own firearms of significantly smaller or larger calibers, these patches may not be the best fit. Similarly, if you rarely clean your firearms or prefer to use reusable cleaning cloths, you might not need this large quantity of disposable patches.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality bore brush, cleaning rod, and firearm cleaning solvent are essential for effective cleaning. Consider purchasing a solvent-resistant storage container to keep the patches organized and protected from accidental spills.
Conclusion on Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack
The Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, affordable, and effective solution for cleaning their firearms. The 100% cotton flannel construction, precision cut, and minimal shedding make them a superior alternative to cheaper, lower-quality patches. At a price of $13.99 for 500 patches, the value proposition is undeniable.
I would absolutely recommend these patches to any firearm owner who prioritizes proper maintenance and wants to keep their firearms in top condition. They are a small investment that can significantly extend the life and improve the performance of your firearms.
Don’t let a dirty gun ruin your next range day or hunting trip. Grab a pack of Kleen Bore .38-.45 Super Shooter Cleaning Patches 500/Pack and experience the difference a quality cleaning patch can make!