First Thoughts on the Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod is a simple, yet crucial piece of kit for any shotgun owner. Kleen-Bore, a name synonymous with firearms maintenance, promises a versatile and portable cleaning solution. This three-section rod aims to cover all your shotgun cleaning needs, regardless of gauge, making it a seemingly economical and space-saving choice.
I was looking for a reliable, portable cleaning rod that could handle all my shotguns, from my trusty 12-gauge to my smaller 20-gauge. I wanted a single solution instead of multiple rods cluttering my range bag. Upon unboxing, the Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod felt surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum construction didn’t immediately inspire confidence in its durability, but the compartmentalized vinyl pouch was a welcome touch for organization.
Compared to a solid, single-piece cleaning rod I’ve used in the past, this multi-section rod feels less robust. I also considered a bore snake, but I wanted something more rigid for tackling stubborn fouling. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Will this lightweight rod truly stand up to the rigors of regular use and effectively clean all my shotguns?
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the local shooting range after a morning of busting clays with my 12-gauge. The range was fairly clean, but the shotgun was definitely showing signs of powder residue and plastic wad fouling. Assembling the Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod was straightforward, and the nylon swivel handle felt comfortable enough in my hand.
The rod sections threaded together smoothly, but I immediately noticed a slight wobble at the joints. While cleaning, I had to be mindful of applying even pressure to avoid bending or potentially damaging the rod. It did manage to push a patch through the barrel and remove a decent amount of carbon, but it took more effort than I anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod on different shotguns and in varying conditions, its limitations became more apparent. While it effectively cleans light fouling, it struggles with heavy buildup, especially plastic wad residue. I found myself having to use much more solvent and scrubbing harder than with my more robust, single-piece rod.
The aluminum started showing minor scratches and dents after a few uses. The nylon swivel handle, while comfortable initially, began to loosen slightly. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to prevent the threads from seizing, but overall, the durability is a concern. It certainly doesn’t outperform my expectations, but it serves its purpose as a basic, portable option.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod
Specifications
- The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod is a three-section cleaning rod. It offers a 32″ reach, making it suitable for most shotgun barrel lengths.
- The rod is constructed from aluminum, making it lightweight and relatively inexpensive. The nylon swivel handle provides a comfortable grip during cleaning.
- The rod includes a slotted patch holder. It features an accessory adapter (#5/16-27 thread) allowing you to attach various brushes and mops.
- The “All Gauge” designation means it’s theoretically suitable for cleaning all shotgun bores, though smaller gauges may require specific brushes or mops. The rod is packaged in a compartmentalized vinyl pouch for easy storage and transport.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod performs adequately for light cleaning tasks. It effectively pushes patches through the bore to remove loose powder residue and light fouling. However, its lightweight aluminum construction lacks the rigidity needed for tackling heavy carbon buildup or stubborn plastic wad residue.
The slotted patch holder works well. It securely holds cleaning patches. However, the wobble at the joints of the assembled rod compromises its performance. This is because it can make it difficult to apply consistent pressure while cleaning.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod’s design prioritizes portability and affordability. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, making it easy to carry in a range bag or field kit. The nylon swivel handle offers a comfortable grip, but its long-term durability is questionable.
The three-section design is convenient for storage. However, the resulting joints introduce a weak point. The rod is generally user-friendly, but the wobble requires a bit of finesse to avoid bending or damaging the rod.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod raises concerns about its long-term durability. Aluminum is susceptible to bending and scratching. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the threads are necessary to prevent seizing.
Replacing damaged sections or the entire rod is relatively inexpensive. But, the need for frequent replacement detracts from its overall value. It’s not particularly difficult to maintain, but its longevity is questionable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod comes with a slotted patch holder. The accessory adapter (#5/16-27 thread) allows for the attachment of various brushes, mops, and other cleaning tools. This compatibility makes it versatile and adaptable to different cleaning needs.
It’s compatible with most standard shotgun cleaning accessories from various brands. This includes bore brushes, mops, and jags. The vinyl pouch provides a convenient way to store the rod and its accessories.
Pros and Cons of Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod
Pros
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to pack in a range bag or field kit.
- Affordable: A budget-friendly option for basic shotgun cleaning.
- All-gauge compatibility: Theoretically works for all shotgun bores (with appropriate accessories).
- Accessory adapter: Compatible with a wide range of brushes and mops.
- Compartmentalized pouch: Keeps the rod and accessories organized.
Cons
- Durability concerns: Aluminum construction is prone to bending and scratching.
- Wobble at joints: Compromises cleaning efficiency and requires careful handling.
- Limited cleaning power: Struggles with heavy fouling and plastic wad residue.
Who Should Buy Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod?
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod is perfect for casual shooters who need a lightweight and portable cleaning solution for light cleaning tasks. It’s also suitable for shotgun owners on a tight budget. This tool is ideal for those who prioritize convenience over heavy-duty cleaning power.
Serious hunters or competitive shooters who regularly subject their shotguns to heavy use should skip this product. Those individuals would benefit from a more robust, single-piece cleaning rod. Must-have accessories include a high-quality bore brush and a dedicated wad remover for tackling stubborn plastic residue.
Conclusion on Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod
The Kleen Bore All Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Rod is a decent entry-level cleaning tool. However, its lightweight construction and wobbly joints limit its effectiveness for heavy-duty cleaning. At $18.99, the price is justified for a basic, portable cleaning solution.
While I wouldn’t rely on it as my primary cleaning rod, it serves a purpose as a backup or travel option. I would personally recommend it to casual shooters who understand its limitations. It is an inexpensive way to keep your shotgun reasonably clean in the field. For serious cleaning, invest in a higher-quality, single-piece rod.