The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge Made a Bold First Impression
For over a decade, I’ve been the guy friends, family, and even strangers at the range come to for advice on all things tactical and outdoor gear. Cleaning and maintaining your firearms is paramount, and I’ve tried countless cleaning kits promising the world, only to deliver frustration. That’s why I was cautiously optimistic when I received the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge, a kit designed for two of the most common shotgun gauges.
I’d been searching for a reliable, all-in-one kit to keep in my truck for quick cleanings after a day of busting clays or chasing upland birds. My current setup was a hodgepodge of mismatched rods, brushes, and solvents, which was disorganized and frankly, a pain to use. This kit seemed to address that issue with its promise of a complete cleaning solution in a reusable case.
Upon unboxing, the kit felt surprisingly solid. The aluminum rod sections had a decent weight, and the case, while plastic, felt sturdy enough to withstand being tossed around in my truck. I was immediately drawn to the included BreakFree CLP, a cleaner, lubricant, and preservative I’ve used and trusted for years. My first thought was, “Finally, a kit that seems to understand the importance of quality cleaning fluids.”
I considered a few alternatives, like the Otis Technology cleaning kits known for their bore snakes, but I wanted a more traditional rod-based system for a thorough cleaning. I also looked at some generic kits on Amazon, but the low price often translated to questionable quality brushes and flimsy rods. The Kleen-Bore kit seemed to strike a good balance between affordability and quality, and being from Kleen-Bore, a company with a solid reputation, gave me confidence in its performance.
My first impression was cautiously positive. I wasn’t blown away, but the kit seemed well-organized and contained everything needed for a basic shotgun cleaning. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise of being a reliable and convenient cleaning solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge took place at my local shooting range after a morning of shooting skeet with my 12-gauge. The weather was fair, but the gun had seen a decent amount of use, leaving a noticeable buildup of powder residue and plastic wad fouling. I set up a small cleaning station on a nearby bench and got to work.
The aluminum rod assembled easily, and the included brushes fit snugly onto the threaded end. I started with the phosphor bronze bore brush, running it through the barrel several times to loosen the stubborn fouling. The BreakFree CLP worked wonders, quickly dissolving the residue and making it easier to brush away. Using the slotted patch holder with the included cotton patches, I was able to effectively swab the barrel clean.
The process was straightforward and relatively quick. The only minor issue I encountered was the length of the rod, which, while adequate, felt a bit short for my 28-inch barrel. This meant I had to reposition the rod several times to clean the entire length of the bore. Overall, the first use was positive. The kit effectively cleaned my shotgun, and the process was much more convenient than using my old, disorganized setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge following various shooting sessions, I can confidently say it holds up well to regular use. I’ve used it to clean both my 12-gauge and my son’s 20-gauge shotguns after everything from clay shooting to upland bird hunting.
The kit shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The aluminum rod remains straight and sturdy, and the brushes, while showing some signs of use, still function effectively. I make sure to clean the brushes after each use to prolong their lifespan. The included silicone cloth is excellent for wiping down the exterior of the shotgun, preventing rust and corrosion.
Maintaining the kit is simple. I occasionally wipe down the case with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also learned to apply a drop of oil to the rod threads to ensure smooth assembly and disassembly. Compared to my previous cleaning routine, which involved searching for the right brush or solvent, the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge has significantly simplified the cleaning process. It’s become an indispensable part of my shooting routine, offering a reliable and convenient way to keep my shotguns in top condition.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is specifically designed for cleaning 12 and 20 gauge shotguns. It includes a 32″ Kleen-Bore 3-piece aluminum rod, which accepts 10, 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410 accessories with 5/16-27 American standard threads. The kit also contains a double-ended nylon bristle gun brush, a 12/20 GA phosphor bronze bore brush, and a slotted shotgun patch holder.
Included are essential cleaning supplies like 2 oz of BreakFree CLP, a silicone cloth, and shotgun cotton cleaning patches. Everything is neatly organized within a reusable carrying/storage case. These specifications are important because they determine the versatility and effectiveness of the kit. The multi-gauge compatibility of the rod means you can use it with other shotguns by simply changing the brush. The BreakFree CLP is a trusted product known for its cleaning, lubricating, and preserving properties.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge performs its job admirably. It effectively removes powder residue, plastic wad fouling, and other debris from the shotgun barrel, ensuring smooth operation and preventing corrosion. The brushes are durable and do a good job of scrubbing away stubborn deposits. The BreakFree CLP works as advertised, cleaning, lubricating, and protecting the metal surfaces.
The kit’s main strength is its all-in-one convenience. Everything you need for a basic shotgun cleaning is included in the compact case. One area that could be improved is the length of the cleaning rod. While 32″ is adequate, a slightly longer rod would be preferable for longer barrels, reducing the need to reposition the rod during cleaning. Overall, the kit meets my expectations for a basic shotgun cleaning kit, offering good performance and functionality at an affordable price.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is simple and functional. The aluminum rod is lightweight and easy to handle. The brushes are well-made and fit securely onto the rod. The plastic case is durable enough for storage and transport, though it’s not designed for heavy-duty use.
The kit is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to operate. The only potential learning curve is familiarizing yourself with the different brushes and their intended uses. The kit is comfortable to use, even for extended cleaning sessions. The aluminum rod provides a good grip, and the brushes are designed to minimize strain on your hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is built to last with proper care. The aluminum rod is resistant to bending and breaking, and the brushes are made from durable materials. With regular cleaning and maintenance, the kit should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the kit is easy. Simply clean the brushes after each use with solvent and a brush cleaner. Wipe down the rod with a cloth to remove any residue. Store the kit in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion. The BreakFree CLP also helps to protect the metal components from rust and wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge comes with a basic set of accessories: a double-ended nylon brush, a phosphor bronze bore brush, a slotted patch holder, cotton patches, BreakFree CLP, and a silicone cloth. While the kit doesn’t offer many customization options directly, the 5/16-27 American standard threads on the cleaning rod allow compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket brushes and accessories.
You could easily add a bore snake for quick cleanings in the field or upgrade to a higher-quality brass brush for more aggressive cleaning. The kit is also compatible with various solvents and lubricants, allowing you to choose the products that best suit your needs. The standard threading means that most shotgun cleaning accessories from other brands will work with the Kleen-Bore rod.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
Pros
- All-in-one kit for 12 and 20 gauge shotguns, providing convenience.
- Durable aluminum cleaning rod with standard threading for accessory compatibility.
- Includes BreakFree CLP, a trusted cleaner, lubricant, and preservative.
- Affordable price point, making it a great value for the money.
- Reusable carrying case keeps everything organized and protected.
Cons
- The 32″ cleaning rod might be a bit short for shotguns with longer barrels.
- The plastic carrying case is functional but not exceptionally durable.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge?
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is perfect for shotgun owners who want a convenient and affordable all-in-one cleaning solution. It’s ideal for recreational shooters, hunters, and anyone who wants to keep their 12 or 20 gauge shotgun in good working order. This kit is a great option for beginners who are just starting to learn about firearm maintenance, as it provides everything they need to get started.
Those with high-end shotguns or those who require specialized cleaning tools might find this kit too basic. If you own shotguns with very long barrels (over 30 inches), you might prefer a longer cleaning rod.
A must-have modification would be adding a bore snake for quick field cleanings when a full cleaning isn’t practical. Investing in higher-quality cotton patches can also improve the cleaning process.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge offers a solid value proposition for shotgun owners seeking an affordable and convenient cleaning solution. While it might not be the most advanced kit on the market, it provides everything you need for basic cleaning and maintenance. The inclusion of BreakFree CLP is a major plus, and the durable aluminum rod ensures long-lasting performance.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of the components and the convenience of the all-in-one design. I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to keep their 12 or 20 gauge shotgun in top condition.
Ready to keep your shotgun performing at its best? Grab the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge today and experience the convenience of a complete cleaning solution!