The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge Made a Bold First Impression
After a dove hunt gone wrong last season, I realized something crucial: neglecting shotgun maintenance can turn a beautiful day in the field into a frustrating experience. My old cleaning kit, a hodgepodge of mismatched parts accumulated over years, was clearly no longer cutting it. That’s when I started researching dedicated cleaning kits, and the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge caught my eye with its promise of a complete, organized solution at an affordable price point.
I was tired of improvising with cleaning rods that were too short and patches that fell apart. I needed a reliable, all-in-one system to keep my shotguns in top working order. The Kleen-Bore kit’s advertised compatibility with both 12 and 20 gauge shotguns was a significant selling point, as those are the two gauges I use most frequently.
Upon unboxing, the kit’s compact, reusable carrying case was a welcome sight. The components felt well-organized and of decent quality, especially considering the price. The 3-piece aluminum rod felt surprisingly sturdy, and the inclusion of BreakFree CLP was a nice bonus.
Compared to the generic cleaning kits I’ve used in the past, the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge seemed much more purpose-built and comprehensive. I considered a more expensive kit from a different Manufacturer that had more specialized brushes, but the Kleen-Bore offered better value and seemed perfectly adequate for routine cleaning. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – the kit appeared to be a well-organized and complete cleaning solution, ready to tackle the post-hunt grime.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge came after a muddy sporting clays session. The weather had been drizzly, and my 12-gauge over-under was thoroughly coated in grime and residue. This was the perfect scenario to put the kit through its paces.
Using the kit was straightforward and intuitive. The 3-piece aluminum rod assembled easily, and the phosphor bronze bore brush effectively scrubbed the barrel. The BreakFree CLP seemed to dissolve the fouling quickly. Even with wet hands, the components were easy to grip and manipulate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, I can confidently say that the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge has held up admirably. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the rod, brushes, or patch holder. The case has kept everything neatly organized.
Maintenance of the kit is minimal – simply wipe down the components after each use and occasionally clean the brushes with solvent. Compared to my previous haphazard cleaning routine, this kit makes the entire process much more efficient and enjoyable. The Kleen-Bore kit has definitely exceeded my expectations, proving to be a reliable and valuable addition to my shooting gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
Specifications
- Caliber or Gauge: 12, 20 Gauge. This caters to two of the most popular shotgun gauges, making it versatile for many shotgun owners.
- Length: 32″. This is the length of the 3-piece aluminum rod, providing adequate reach for most shotgun barrels without being unwieldy.
- Thread Pattern: #5/16×27. This American standard thread allows compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket cleaning accessories.
- Bristle Type: Nylon. The nylon bristle gun brush is effective for general cleaning and safe for most firearm finishes.
- Case Material: Polypropylene. This lightweight and durable plastic makes the carrying case resistant to impacts and moisture.
- Includes: Rod, Brush, Holder, Patches, CLP, Cloth. This makes it a comprehensive cleaning solution.
- Pieces: 1 Kit. This is a all-in-one cleaning kit.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge performs its job effectively. It thoroughly cleans shotgun barrels, removing fouling and preventing rust. The included BreakFree CLP further enhances cleaning performance by loosening stubborn residue and providing lubrication.
The kit’s primary strength lies in its completeness and ease of use. All essential cleaning tools are included in a single, organized package. A potential weakness is that the included patches might not be sufficient for extensive cleaning sessions, requiring the user to purchase additional patches.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s components are well-designed for ease of use. The aluminum rod is lightweight and easy to handle. The brushes are durable and effectively clean the bore.
The polypropylene case is sturdy and provides ample storage for all components. There is little to no learning curve involved in using the kit, making it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is built to last. The aluminum rod and durable brushes are designed for repeated use. Maintenance is simple – clean the components after each use to prevent buildup and ensure longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge comes with a standard set of accessories, including a double end nylon bristle gun brush; 12/20 GA phosphor bronze bore brush; slotted shotgun patch holder; 2 oz BreakFree CLP; silicone cloth; and shotgun cotton cleaning patches. The 5/16-27 American standard threads on the aluminum rod allow compatibility with many aftermarket bore brushes, mops, and jags. This thread pattern is a key feature for those who like to customize their cleaning routine.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
Pros
- Comprehensive Kit: Includes everything needed for basic shotgun cleaning.
- Dual Gauge Compatibility: Works for both 12 and 20 gauge shotguns.
- Organized Storage: The reusable carrying case keeps components organized and protected.
- Durable Components: The aluminum rod and phosphor bronze brush are built to last.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Limited Patch Supply: The included cotton cleaning patches may need to be supplemented with additional purchases.
- Basic Brushes: The brushes are adequate but may not be suitable for heavy fouling or specialized cleaning tasks.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge?
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is perfect for hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and recreational shooters who own 12 and/or 20 gauge shotguns and are looking for a complete and affordable cleaning solution. It’s also ideal for beginner shooters who need a simple, all-in-one kit to get started with firearm maintenance.
Those who require specialized brushes or frequently clean heavily fouled firearms might find this kit too basic and may want to consider a more advanced cleaning system. A must-have accessory to consider alongside this kit is a larger supply of cotton cleaning patches.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge
The Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge is a well-rounded and affordable cleaning solution for 12 and 20 gauge shotguns. It offers excellent value for the money, providing all the essential tools needed for routine cleaning in a convenient, organized package. For $29.99, the price is more than justified.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly way to keep their shotguns in top condition. If you’re ready to stop improvising and start cleaning your shotguns the right way, then grab the Kleen-Bore Shotgun Classic Kit 12,20 Gauge today. You won’t regret it.