The Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ Made a Bold First Impression
Maintaining my rifles is a ritual. It’s a process I take seriously, and I’ve always believed that a clean rifle is an accurate rifle and a safe rifle. When I needed a new cleaning rod for my .17 HMR and .204 Ruger, I decided to try the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″. I had heard good things about Kleen-Bore‘s commitment to quality and their innovative approach to firearm maintenance.
I’ve used everything from cheap, multi-piece aluminum rods to more expensive, coated options. The aluminum rods always seemed to bend or scratch the bore, while some coated rods felt too flimsy. The Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ promised a good balance of rigidity and bore protection, so I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. I chose this over a bore snake and a coated brass rod because I wanted something that would really scrub the bore.
Unboxing the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″, I was immediately impressed. The steel rod felt solid and well-made, and the SAF-T-CLAD coating looked smooth and even. My first impression was excitement. This felt like a tool that was built to last.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ came after a long day at the range with my .17 HMR. The conditions were fairly mild – sunny and dry – but I had put a couple hundred rounds downrange. Cleaning was done at home, using a standard CLP.
The rod moved smoothly through the bore, with none of the binding or sticking I’ve experienced with other rods. The swivel handle felt comfortable and allowed for easy rotation. I did not need to change my cleaning habits, the rod was easy to use from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I clean my rifles after every range trip, which means the rod has seen quite a bit of use. The SAF-T-CLAD coating shows no signs of wear, and the steel rod remains straight and true.
Maintenance is simple: I just wipe the rod down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil. Compared to the aluminum rods I used to use, this Kleen-Bore rod is a significant improvement in terms of durability and bore protection. It definitely outperforms other cleaning rods I’ve owned in this caliber range.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″
Specifications
Caliber Compatibility: Designed for .17 to .204 caliber rifles. This is a very specific range, ensuring a snug fit for effective cleaning.
Material: Solid steel construction with SAF-T-CLAD coating. The steel provides rigidity, while the coating prevents bore damage.
Length: 33 inches. This length is ideal for most rifle barrels in these calibers, providing ample reach.
Handle: Swivel handle. The swivel handle allows the rod to rotate freely, following the rifling and improving cleaning efficiency.
Included Accessories: Includes a SAF-T-CLAD coated patch holder and polymer muzzle guard. These accessories further protect the bore and muzzle during cleaning.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the rod’s ability to effectively clean and protect the rifle bore. A properly sized, well-coated rod is essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing damage.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ performs its job admirably. The rod’s rigidity allows for thorough scrubbing, while the SAF-T-CLAD coating ensures the bore is protected from scratches. It meets my expectations for a high-quality cleaning rod.
The rod’s main strength is its ability to remove fouling without damaging the bore. The polymer muzzle guard also helps to prevent damage to the crown of the barrel. One potential weakness is that the patch holder is specific to this rod; you can’t easily swap it out for other brands’ accessories.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The steel rod feels solid and well-made, and the SAF-T-CLAD coating is smooth and even. The swivel handle is comfortable to hold and use.
The design is user-friendly. There’s no real learning curve – it’s a straightforward cleaning rod.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel construction and SAF-T-CLAD coating, I expect this rod to last for many years. Maintenance is minimal: simply wipe the rod down after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ comes with a SAF-T-CLAD coated patch holder and a polymer muzzle guard. No major customization is possible or necessary. You might be able to find aftermarket patch holders that fit, but the included one works well.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″
Pros
- Excellent Bore Protection: The SAF-T-CLAD coating prevents scratches and damage to the rifle’s bore.
- Durable Steel Construction: The solid steel rod is built to last and withstand repeated use.
- Smooth Swivel Handle: The swivel handle allows for easy and efficient cleaning.
- Included Muzzle Guard: The polymer muzzle guard protects the crown of the barrel.
- Easy to Use: Straightforward and intuitive design requires no learning curve.
Cons
- Patch Holder Specificity: The included patch holder may not be compatible with all aftermarket accessories.
- Price: At $23.99, it’s slightly more expensive than some basic cleaning rods.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″?
This cleaning rod is perfect for rifle owners who value accuracy and want to protect their rifle’s bore. It’s ideal for shooters who own .17 HMR, .17 Hornet, .17 Rem, .204 Ruger rifles and prioritize proper maintenance. This is a great tool for varmint hunters who regularly shoot and clean their rifles.
This rod might not be necessary for someone who only occasionally shoots their rifle and isn’t particularly concerned about bore condition. Someone who prefers bore snakes for quick cleaning might also skip this product. A good bore solvent or copper solvent might be useful for really cleaning the bore.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″
Overall, the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ is a high-quality cleaning rod that offers excellent bore protection and durability. The price is justified by the quality of the materials and construction.
I would definitely recommend this cleaning rod to anyone who owns a .17 to .204 caliber rifle and wants to keep it in top condition. Invest in the Kleen-Bore Saf-T-Clad Cleaning Rod .17-.204 Cal Rifle Steel 33″ and ensure the longevity and accuracy of your rifle!