M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber Review

First Thoughts on the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber

The M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber promises a comprehensive cleaning solution in a compact package. Smith & Wesson, under their M&P Accessories line, aims to provide shooters with a convenient and portable kit for maintaining their .22 and .30 caliber rifles. This kit is designed for those who need a cleaning solution that can be easily carried to the range or stored in small spaces.

As an avid shooter and former armorer, maintaining my firearms is paramount. My primary need was for a compact, multi-caliber cleaning kit to keep in my range bag. I’ve always preached preventative maintenance.

Upon unboxing the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber, I was immediately drawn to its compact size. The zippered carry case felt durable and the included tools seemed well-organized at first glance. My initial assessment indicated that it would be adequate for basic cleaning, however, I was also curious about the long-term durability of the components.

I considered similar kits from Otis and Real Avid. I chose this kit for its compact size and lower price point, hoping it would offer a good balance of portability and functionality. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber at my local shooting range after a day of putting rounds through my AR-15 (chambered in .223/5.56, close enough to .22 for cleaning rod assessment) and my Ruger American in .308. The range environment was relatively clean and dry. The kit proved easy to unpack and provided the essential tools for a basic post-shooting cleaning.

The cleaning rod sections screwed together easily, and the included bore brushes appeared to be of decent quality. However, I noticed that the patches provided were a bit thin, requiring me to use multiple patches for thorough cleaning. No huge issue, but something to be aware of.

After my first use, I was generally satisfied, but I did notice some slight bending in the cleaning rod when applying pressure to remove stubborn carbon fouling. This raised concerns about the rod’s long-term durability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, cleaning both my AR-15 and my .308 rifle after each range session, the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber held up reasonably well. The carry case showed no signs of wear and tear despite being tossed into my range bag and jostled around. The brass brushes have retained their form reasonably well.

I’ve noticed that the cleaning rod sections have become slightly loose over time, requiring frequent tightening during use. This can be a bit annoying but is manageable. The patches, as mentioned earlier, are still a bit thin, and I’ve started supplementing them with higher-quality patches I purchased separately.

Compared to my previous experiences with higher-end cleaning kits, the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber performs adequately for basic cleaning. However, it lacks the robustness and durability of more expensive options. This is acceptable considering the price point.

Breaking Down the Features of M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber

Specifications

• The M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber is designed for both .22 and .30 caliber rifles. This makes it a versatile option for shooters owning multiple rifles.
• The kit includes a 36″ segmented cleaning rod. The length is sufficient for most rifles, but may be a bit short for longer-barreled rifles.
• It comes with bore brushes for both .22 and .30 caliber. These brushes are standard quality, effective for removing basic fouling.
• The kit includes a slotted patch holder and cleaning patches. The patches are a bit thin and may require doubling up.
• A zippered carry case is included for convenient storage and transport. The case is compact and durable, easily fitting into a range bag or backpack.

These specifications suggest the kit is geared towards basic cleaning and maintenance. It’s not designed for heavy-duty cleaning or professional gunsmithing.

Performance & Functionality

The M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber performs its job adequately for basic cleaning. It effectively removes powder residue and light carbon fouling from the bore.

However, the cleaning rod’s slight flexibility and the thinness of the patches can make cleaning more time-consuming and less effective for heavily fouled rifles. The included brushes are adequate, though their longevity under heavy use is questionable. The design’s strength is portability.

Overall, the kit meets expectations for its price point, but it doesn’t exceed them. It’s a functional, albeit basic, cleaning solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber is acceptable for its price. The materials are standard-grade, and the components are functional.

The kit is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The compact size and organized layout of the carry case make it easy to access the necessary tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber is a mixed bag. The carry case seems durable, while the cleaning rod sections and patches are likely to wear out over time.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply clean the brushes after use and replace the patches as needed. Regular cleaning and proper storage will extend the life of the kit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber comes with the essential accessories for basic cleaning: brushes, a patch holder, and patches. There are no additional customization options provided by M&P.

However, the kit is compatible with standard-sized bore brushes and cleaning patches from other brands. This allows users to upgrade or replace components as needed. The case, itself, offers very little expansion.

Pros and Cons of M&P Accessories M & P Rifle Cleaning Kit Multi-Caliber