The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm Made a Bold First Impression
As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless cleaning kits come and go. However, the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm promised something different: portability and convenience without sacrificing quality. This compact cleaning solution from Kleen-Bore aims to be the ideal companion for pistol owners on the go.
Years of field experience taught me the importance of maintaining firearms, but lugging around bulky cleaning kits was always a pain. I needed a solution that was lightweight, easy to carry, and effective for cleaning my 9mm and .38 Special handguns after range sessions. The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm seemed like it might fit the bill.
The initial unboxing was surprisingly pleasant. The POCKit Set is small and feels solid, with the handle providing a surprisingly comfortable grip. The two-section cleaning rod and accessories fit neatly inside the handle, creating a self-contained unit. Compared to my old, compartmentalized cleaning kit, this was a breath of fresh air. I considered other compact kits from Hoppe’s and Real Avid, but the Kleen-Bore seemed better organized and sturdier.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm looked well-made and cleverly designed, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to see if it could live up to its promise of convenient and effective firearm maintenance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm to my local shooting range, where I planned to put it to work after a session with my Glock 19 (9mm) and my S&W Model 64 (.38 Special). After a couple hours of shooting, my pistols were definitely in need of cleaning. The range was fairly dusty, adding to the fouling.
The POCKit Set proved surprisingly easy to use. Assembling the cleaning rod was quick and intuitive, and the muzzle guard was a welcome addition, protecting the barrel crown. I ran the phosphor bronze brush through both barrels, followed by the cotton mop, and finally the jag. The entire cleaning process was efficient and straightforward, even with the limited space available at the range.
The only minor issue I encountered was the short length of the cleaning rod when fully assembled. While sufficient for my Glock 19 with its ~4-inch barrel, it felt a bit short for the longer barrel of the S&W Model 64. Otherwise, the initial use was positive, and the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm performed admirably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm after each range visit, it has become a staple in my range bag. The set has held up well to repeated use. There are no signs of wear and tear on the cleaning rod or accessories.
The cleaning rod remains straight and sturdy, and the brushes and mops are still in good condition. I’ve made sure to clean the brush after each use to remove any fouling or debris. The handle is also easy to wipe down and keep clean. Compared to my previous cleaning kits, the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm is significantly more convenient and reliable for quick cleanings at the range or in the field.
My previous kits required me to carry a separate container for cleaning solvent. I often forgot it or it leaked, causing a mess. The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set doesn’t solve the solvent need, but its compact design and durability definitely outperforms the older, bulkier models.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm
Specifications
- Caliber Compatibility: .38/.357/9mm. This multi-caliber compatibility makes it a versatile option for handgun owners with multiple firearms.
- Rod Length: Up to 8.37 inches when both sections are connected. This allows cleaning of various barrel lengths, although it might be slightly short for longer-barreled revolvers.
- Components: Includes a two-section cleaning rod, a phosphor bronze brush, a cotton mop, and a jag. These accessories cover the essential steps for cleaning a handgun.
- Storage: Features a storage handle for the cleaning rod and accessories. This provides a compact and organized carrying solution.
- Muzzle Guard: The first rod section includes a muzzle guard. The guard helps to protect the rifling and crown.
These specifications make the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm a practical choice. Its portability and convenience are major advantages. The quality of the materials is key for long-term reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm performs its job effectively. It facilitates quick and thorough cleaning of handguns. The bronze brush effectively removes carbon fouling.
The cotton mop absorbs cleaning solvent and leaves the barrel dry and clean. The jag is useful for pushing patches through the barrel for a final polish. A slight weakness is the rod length. It can be a little short for some longer-barreled handguns.
It largely meets expectations. It is a simple, reliable, and portable cleaning kit that does exactly what it promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm features a simple yet effective design. The materials used appear to be durable, and the overall build quality feels solid for the price. The handle is comfortable to grip.
The ergonomics are excellent for its intended purpose. There is no significant learning curve. It is intuitive to assemble and use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm should last for years. The cleaning rod is made of sturdy material. The brushes and mops are replaceable when they wear out.
Maintenance is simple. Just clean the brush and wipe down the rod after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm comes with all the essential accessories needed for basic handgun cleaning. It includes a phosphor bronze brush, cotton mop, and jag for .38/.357/9mm calibers. Kleen-Bore designs the set to accept all Kleen-Bore handgun accessories.
While there are no specific customization options, users can purchase additional brushes and mops from Kleen-Bore or other manufacturers that are compatible with the rod’s threading. This allows some level of personalization to suit individual cleaning preferences. I may upgrade to a nylon brush, as they can sometimes be less abrasive, depending on the firearm.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm
Pros
- Compact and Portable: Easily fits in a range bag or backpack, making it ideal for on-the-go cleaning.
- Multi-Caliber Compatibility: Works with .38, .357, and 9mm handguns, offering versatility.
- Durable Construction: The cleaning rod and accessories are made from quality materials that can withstand frequent use.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money, especially for those seeking a basic and reliable cleaning kit.
- Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive design requires no special skills or knowledge to operate effectively.
Cons
- Rod Length: The assembled rod may be too short for cleaning longer-barreled handguns.
- Limited Accessories: Only includes the basic cleaning tools, lacking more specialized items like bore lights or detailed cleaning picks.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm?
The Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm is perfect for:
- Casual shooters who need a portable and convenient cleaning solution for their handguns.
- Individuals looking for an affordable and reliable cleaning kit that covers the basics.
- Those who prioritize portability and ease of use over having a comprehensive set of specialized tools.
Who should skip this product? Serious competitive shooters who require more specialized tools or individuals who own handguns with very long barrels might find the POCKit Set too basic or short. They might want to opt for a more comprehensive cleaning kit with longer rods and a wider range of accessories.
A must-have accessory would be a quality gun cleaning solvent. The kit itself doesn’t include it.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm
Overall, the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm is a solid and practical choice for handgun owners seeking a portable and affordable cleaning solution. Its compact design, multi-caliber compatibility, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the money. At a price point of $17.49, the value proposition is quite high.
I would definitely recommend this product to casual shooters and anyone who needs a convenient cleaning kit for on-the-go maintenance. While it may not be the most comprehensive cleaning kit on the market, it covers the essentials and provides excellent performance for its size and price. For quick and efficient handgun cleaning, the Kleen-Bore POCKit Set 38/357/9mm delivers. So, ditch those bulky kits and grab a POCKit Set – your handguns (and your range bag) will thank you.