First Thoughts on the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun
The Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun isn’t exactly the sexiest piece of tactical gear, but it’s arguably one of the most important for maintaining the performance and longevity of your shotgun. Kleen-Bore, a company known for its quality firearm cleaning supplies made right here in the USA, offers this simple, yet effective tool designed to keep your shotgun chamber clean and functioning smoothly. For a mere $8.49, it promises to remove stubborn fouling and ensure reliable cycling.
My need for the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun arose from years of frustration with inconsistent shotgun performance. Excessive wad fouling and unburned powder were consistently causing issues with extraction, particularly in my semi-automatic sporting clays shotgun. Standard bore brushes just weren’t cutting it, leading me to seek a dedicated chamber cleaning tool.
Upon unboxing (or rather, removing it from its simple packaging), the brush felt solid and well-made. The tapered design looked promising for reaching deep into the chamber. Compared to using makeshift cleaning solutions or ill-fitting brushes, the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun immediately felt like a more professional and dedicated tool.
My initial impression was positive. I was hopeful this brush would finally provide the effective chamber cleaning I’d been searching for, especially given the low price point and reputation of Kleen-Bore.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground for the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun was at my local shooting range after a particularly dirty sporting clays session. I had fired over 200 rounds of inexpensive target loads known for leaving significant residue. The chamber of my Benelli was visibly fouled with plastic wad residue.
The ChamberMate proved incredibly easy to use. After applying a bit of solvent, the tapered brush easily slid into the chamber, and with a few twists, I could feel it scrubbing away the stubborn deposits. The brush maintained its shape and didn’t shed bristles, even with vigorous scrubbing. I was immediately impressed with how much easier it was to clean the chamber compared to using patches or a standard bore brush.
After the first use, I noticed a significant improvement in the ease of cycling. The bolt moved much more smoothly, and I experienced no failures to extract during my subsequent shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The bristles remain firmly attached, and the handle shows no signs of weakening.
Maintaining the ChamberMate is simple. After use, I rinse it with solvent, scrub it with a bit of soap and water, and let it air dry. The brush has maintained its shape and effectiveness even with frequent cleaning.
In comparison to my previous cleaning routine, the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun has been a game-changer. Cleaning the shotgun’s chamber used to be a dreaded task. Now, it’s a quick and easy part of my post-shooting routine. The reliability of my shotgun has demonstrably improved.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, ensuring a proper fit and effective cleaning.
- Type: Chamber Brush. This is not a bore brush; it is specifically shaped and sized for cleaning the shotgun chamber.
- Material: Heavy-duty bristles. The bristles are robust enough to remove stubborn fouling without damaging the chamber.
- Tapered Design: The tapered shape allows it to easily enter and clean the entire chamber.
- Made in the USA: This ensures quality control and supports American manufacturing.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun excels at its primary function: cleaning the chamber of a 12-gauge shotgun. It effectively removes plastic wad fouling, unburned powder, and other debris that can accumulate in the chamber, leading to improved cycling and reliability. Its tapered design ensures that the entire chamber is cleaned, including hard-to-reach areas.
The brush’s strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a straightforward tool that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. The only potential area for improvement might be the addition of a longer handle for easier use in certain shotgun models.
The brush meets and exceeds my expectations. The improvement in my shotgun’s cycling reliability alone makes it worth the investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun is a no-frills tool. It’s designed for functionality rather than aesthetics. The handle is easy to grip, and the tapered brush head is well-shaped for its intended purpose.
It’s a very user-friendly tool. No special skills or techniques are required. Even a novice shooter can easily use it to clean their shotgun chamber.
Durability & Maintenance
The ChamberMate is built to last. The heavy-duty bristles and sturdy handle suggest it will withstand years of use. Proper maintenance, like rinsing after use, will further extend its lifespan.
Maintaining the brush is simple. It requires no special tools or cleaning solutions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun is a standalone tool. It doesn’t require any accessories or offer customization options. Its effectiveness lies in its simplicity and dedicated design.
However, it pairs well with a quality solvent for loosening stubborn fouling. Kleen-Bore also offers a range of cleaning solvents that are compatible with this brush.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun
Pros
- Effectively removes plastic wad fouling and unburned powder.
- Dramatically improves shotgun cycling reliability.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use.
- Made in the USA by Kleen-Bore, a trusted brand.
Cons
- Handle could be longer for some shotgun models.
- It is specifically for 12-gauge shotguns only; not versatile for other gauges.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun?
This is a must-have for any 12-gauge shotgun owner, especially those who frequently shoot target loads or experience cycling issues due to chamber fouling. It’s particularly beneficial for:
- Sporting clays shooters.
- Trap and skeet enthusiasts.
- Hunters who use their shotguns extensively.
- Anyone who wants to maintain the reliability and performance of their 12-gauge shotgun.
Those who own shotguns of other gauges should skip this product and seek a chamber brush specific to their shotgun’s gauge. Also, if you meticulously clean your shotgun after every use and never experience cycling issues, you might not find this tool essential, although it can still simplify the cleaning process.
A good quality solvent is a must-have accessory to use with this brush.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun
The Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun is an inexpensive but invaluable tool for any 12-gauge shotgun owner. For a mere $8.49, it delivers exceptional performance in cleaning the shotgun chamber, leading to improved cycling reliability and overall shotgun performance. Its simple design, durable construction, and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is absolutely justified. The increased reliability and ease of cleaning are worth far more than the cost of the brush.
I would unequivocally recommend the Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun to any 12-gauge shotgun owner. Don’t let chamber fouling compromise your shotgun’s performance. Get a Kleen-Bore ChamberMate Chamber Brush 12 Gauge Shotgun and keep your shotgun running smoothly!