First Thoughts on the Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon
As someone who’s spent over a decade handling, maintaining, and generally obsessing over firearms, I’ve seen my share of cleaning kits. Some are fantastic, some are downright awful, and most fall somewhere in between. The Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon piqued my interest because it seemed to offer a comprehensive package at a very reasonable price point. Could it deliver on its promises, or would it be another cheap kit destined for the back of the cleaning bench?
My need for this kit stemmed from a desire for a dedicated cleaning solution for my .45 ACP 1911. I was tired of juggling various brushes, solvents, and patches from different kits every time I wanted to give it a thorough cleaning. The promise of a complete, organized solution in a reusable case was incredibly appealing.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sturdy carry case. The components seemed well-organized, and the materials appeared to be of decent quality for the price. It certainly wasn’t the most premium feeling kit I’ve handled, but it didn’t scream “cheap junk” either.
I considered the Hoppe’s Handgun Cleaning Kit and the Otis Technology Ripcord Field Cleaning Kit before settling on the Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon. The Hoppe’s kit, while a classic, felt a bit basic in terms of included accessories. The Otis Ripcord, while innovative, seemed more suited for quick field cleaning rather than a deep clean. This Kleen-Bore kit seemed to strike a good balance between comprehensiveness and portability.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could truly simplify my handgun cleaning routine. At $33.99, the price was certainly right, but the real test would be in its performance and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon after a range session where I put about 200 rounds through my 1911. This left the gun noticeably dirty with powder residue and carbon fouling. The conditions were dry and relatively mild, perfect for assessing the kit’s core cleaning capabilities.
The kit proved easy to use right out of the box. The included rod assembled smoothly, and the muzzle guard provided added protection against scratching the bore. The bronze brush and nylon brush worked effectively at loosening stubborn carbon deposits, while the cotton mop helped to absorb the remaining solvent.
I did notice that the patches were a bit thin compared to some of the higher-end ones I’ve used. This meant I had to use a few more to achieve a completely clean bore. Otherwise, the first use was a positive experience, and the kit seemed to perform as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the brushes or rod. The carry case is also proving to be quite durable, surviving several trips to the range without any issues.
Maintenance is simple; I just wipe down the rod and brushes after each use and occasionally wash the cotton mop with soap and water. The included BreakFree CLP is effective for both cleaning and lubricating, helping to prevent rust and corrosion. This keeps the process simple, easy and clean.
Compared to my previous experience of piecing together cleaning supplies, this kit has been a noticeable improvement in terms of organization and convenience. It hasn’t blown me away with exceptional quality, but it has consistently delivered reliable performance at an affordable price. It simply works.
Breaking Down the Features of Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon
Specifications
The Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon includes:
- 6.50″ Kleen-Bore Precision stainless steel rod: This is the backbone of the kit, providing the necessary reach and rigidity for cleaning handgun barrels.
- Muzzle guard: This protects the rifling at the muzzle from damage during cleaning, a crucial detail for maintaining accuracy.
- Double end nylon bristle gun brush: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around the frame and slide.
- Barbed point brass jag: This securely holds cleaning patches for efficient solvent application and dirt removal.
- Phosphor bronze bore brush: This effectively removes stubborn carbon fouling and lead deposits from the bore.
- Cotton bore mop: This absorbs residual solvent and polishes the bore for a smooth finish.
- 2 oz BreakFree CLP: BreakFree CLP is a well-regarded cleaner, lubricant, and protectant that helps prevent rust and corrosion.
- 1 oz Pro-Shot Bio 4X LP needle oiler: Allows for precise application of oil to critical areas of the firearm.
- Silicone cloth: This wipes down the exterior of the firearm to protect it from moisture and fingerprints.
- Cotton cleaning patches: Essential for cleaning the bore and removing solvent.
- Heavy duty reusable carry/storage case: Keeps all the components organized and protected.
These specifications make this kit specifically tailored for .44 and .45 caliber handguns. The inclusion of BreakFree CLP is a major plus, as it simplifies the cleaning process by providing a single solution for multiple tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon performs its intended job effectively. The brushes and patches remove fouling and residue, and the BreakFree CLP leaves a protective layer.
One strength is the comprehensive nature of the kit. It includes everything needed for a thorough cleaning. A weakness is the relatively thin cleaning patches, which require more frequent replacement during cleaning.
The kit meets my expectations for a mid-range cleaning kit. It provides adequate performance and functionality for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit is well-designed and relatively easy to use. The components are lightweight and easy to handle.
There is no significant learning curve, even for novice gun owners. The case is well-organized.
Durability & Maintenance
The components appear to be reasonably durable. Regular cleaning and maintenance will extend the lifespan of the kit.
The kit is easy to clean and maintain. The stainless-steel rod is corrosion-resistant, and the brushes are easily cleaned with solvent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes a good selection of essential accessories. There are no customization options for the kit itself.
The brushes and rod are standard sizes and should be compatible with other brands. You could easily substitute different solvents or cleaning patches if desired.
Pros and Cons of Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon
Pros
- Comprehensive kit: Includes everything needed for a thorough .44 or .45 caliber handgun cleaning.
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to individual components.
- Durable carry case: Keeps components organized and protected.
- Effective cleaning: The brushes and solvent work well to remove fouling and residue.
- Convenient BreakFree CLP: Simplifies the cleaning process with its 3-in-1 functionality.
Cons
- Thin cleaning patches: Requires more frequent replacement during cleaning.
- Rod length could be longer: A slightly longer rod would provide better leverage in some longer barrels.
Who Should Buy Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon?
This kit is perfect for .44 and .45 caliber handgun owners looking for an affordable, all-in-one cleaning solution. It’s also great for new gun owners who want a simple and effective way to maintain their firearms. Tactical and Police officers will also benefit from the kit’s portability and comprehensive contents.
Anyone seeking premium-grade components or a super-compact field cleaning kit might want to explore other options. Those who frequently clean larger caliber firearms or rifles might also find the rod length limiting.
A bore light could be a useful addition to this kit. It would allow for a more thorough inspection of the bore after cleaning.
Conclusion on Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon
The Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon is a solid, well-rounded cleaning kit that delivers good performance at an excellent price. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end kits, it provides everything needed to keep your .44 or .45 caliber handgun clean and functioning reliably.
The price is definitely justified by the comprehensiveness of the kit and the effectiveness of its components. For $33.99, it’s hard to find a better value in the handgun cleaning market.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable cleaning solution for their .44 or .45 caliber handgun. It is the perfect starting point.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and invest in a dependable handgun cleaning kit, then grab the Kleen-Bore Tactical/Police Handgun Cleaning Kit .44, .45 Cal Handgun Bronze, Nylon and keep your firearm in top condition!