The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square Made a Bold First Impression
A clean firearm is a happy firearm, and for years I’ve relied on everything from old t-shirts to expensive bore-cleaning kits to keep my collection in tip-top shape. When I first heard about the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square, a simple, non-toxic cloth promising to clean and protect metal surfaces, I was intrigued. I was especially drawn in by the promise of safely removing surface rust and tarnish from blued and stainless firearms.
My main motivation for trying this product was the creeping surface rust I’d noticed on my grandfather’s old shotgun. It’s a beautiful piece of history, but the humidity in my gun safe was taking its toll. I’d tried various oils and rust inhibitors, but the rust kept coming back. My hope was that the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square would offer a more effective and easier solution.
Upon receiving the cloth, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. It was a plain, unassuming 9.8-inch square of what felt like tightly woven cotton. It wasn’t oily or chemically scented, which I appreciated, unlike some rust-removing products. Initial inspection revealed no loose threads or any signs of poor construction; it seemed like a durable, well-made cloth.
In the past, I have used Hoppe’s No. 9 patches and Birchwood Casey’s Gun Scrubber. While these products are effective, they often require additional cloths for application and wiping, plus they involve harsher chemicals. The promise of a single, non-toxic cloth for cleaning made the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square stand out. I chose this product hoping for a simpler, safer, and more convenient cleaning solution.
Honestly, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. Could a simple cloth really remove rust and tarnish without harsh chemicals? I was skeptical, but willing to give it a try.
Real-World Testing: Putting Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test subject was indeed my grandfather’s shotgun. I chose a well-lit area and carefully wiped down the affected areas of the blued receiver, paying close attention to the spots of surface rust. The cloth glided smoothly over the metal, and with minimal pressure, I could see the rust beginning to lift.
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square performed admirably even in the tricky areas around the trigger guard and engraving. I tested it in relatively dry conditions inside my workshop. Using it was incredibly straightforward: simply wipe the cloth over the affected area until the rust or tarnish disappears.
I did notice a slight darkening of the cloth as it picked up the rust and grime, but no immediate issues or surprises. The cloth’s simple operation made it ready for anyone to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square on various firearms, including stainless steel pistols and blued rifles, I’m impressed with its performance. It has held up remarkably well, with no signs of tearing or fraying, despite repeated use. I did observe a gradual discoloration of the cloth from continued use removing contaminates.
The cloth has proven to be quite durable, showing no signs of falling apart after multiple cleaning sessions. Maintenance is virtually non-existent; simply store the cloth in a clean, dry place. This is in contrast to traditional cleaning methods which need a well-ventilated space and safety measures.
Compared to my previous experiences with chemical cleaners and abrasive pads, the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square offers a gentler, more convenient cleaning experience. It is less aggressive and does not leave any chemical residue. The cloth outperforms traditional methods in ease of use and safety.
Breaking Down the Features of Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square
Specifications
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square boasts the following specifications:
- Type: Cleaning Cloth. This is a simple, dry cloth designed for cleaning and polishing metal surfaces.
- Size: 9.8 x 9.8″. This provides a decent surface area for cleaning various firearms.
- Quantity: 1. Each package contains a single cloth.
These specifications translate to a convenient and portable cleaning solution. The size is manageable for storing in a range bag or cleaning kit. The cloth-type material suggests a gentle, non-abrasive cleaning action.
Performance & Functionality
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square excels at removing surface rust, tarnish, and fingerprints from metal surfaces. It is effective on both blued and stainless steel finishes. It is simple to use and doesn’t require any special skills or techniques.
The strength is its ease of use and non-toxic nature, making it safe for use in enclosed spaces. The weakness would be the inability to remove deeper, more established rust. It meets expectations for light cleaning and surface rust removal.
Design & Ergonomics
The cloth’s simple design is its greatest strength. The material is soft and pliable, making it easy to work into tight corners and intricate engravings. The lightweight construction makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
The cloth is incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve; simply wipe the surface to be cleaned. Its simplicity makes it excellent to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square should last for quite some time with proper care. Keeping the cloth clean and storing it in a dry place will prolong its lifespan. Regular use will wear down the cloth as dirt and grime embed themselves into the material.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply avoid excessive dirt buildup and store it properly. The cleaning and maintenance are what make it worth the price.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square comes as a standalone product and doesn’t include any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. The very nature of the product does not need further accessories.
The cloth can be used with various gun oils and protectants to further enhance the cleaning and protection process. It is compatible with most standard gun cleaning products, giving it versatility.
Pros and Cons of Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square
Pros
- Non-toxic and safe to use in enclosed spaces. This is a huge benefit compared to harsh chemical cleaners.
- Effective at removing surface rust and tarnish. It restores the original shine to metal surfaces.
- Easy to use with no special skills or tools required. Anyone can pick it up and start cleaning.
- Gentle on metal finishes, preventing scratches or damage. It’s safe for delicate blued surfaces.
- Affordable and readily available. At $6.99, it’s a cost-effective cleaning solution.
Cons
- Not effective on deep or heavily pitted rust. It’s designed for surface-level cleaning only.
- The cloth will eventually become saturated with dirt and grime. Requires eventual replacement.
Who Should Buy Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square?
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square is perfect for gun owners who want a simple, safe, and effective way to clean and maintain their firearms. It’s ideal for those who regularly handle their guns and want to quickly remove fingerprints, smudges, and light surface rust. Collectors of firearms and firearm enthusiasts will also appreciate the gentle cleaning action, as it preserves the original finish.
This product may not be suitable for those dealing with severe rust issues or for professional gunsmiths who require more aggressive cleaning methods. Those looking for a comprehensive cleaning kit with brushes and solvents might find this product too basic. If your weapon has a lot of deep-set residue, it is better to use chemicals before wiping with the cloth.
A must-have accessory would be a quality gun oil or protectant to apply after cleaning with the cloth, further preventing rust and corrosion. A storage case is also helpful to keep the cloth clean and protected when not in use.
Conclusion on Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square
The Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square is a surprisingly effective and convenient cleaning tool for any firearm owner. Its non-toxic formula and gentle cleaning action make it a safe and reliable option for maintaining the appearance and integrity of your firearms. It is excellent to remove fingerprints and light surface rust without harsh chemicals.
At $6.99, the price is justified by its effectiveness and ease of use. It offers a great value and simplifies firearm maintenance. It is a cost-effective product.
I would absolutely recommend the Metal Care Cloth 9.8 Inch Square to anyone looking for a simple and safe way to keep their firearms clean and protected. If you are a gun owner this product will be an invaluable asset to your collection. Pick one up today and experience the difference!