First Thoughts on the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic
Maintaining a rifle’s bore is paramount to accuracy and longevity. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless rifles rendered inaccurate or damaged by improper cleaning. That’s why I was intrigued by the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic, a product designed to simplify and improve the cleaning process. The MTM name is generally associated with practical, budget-friendly solutions, so I was eager to see how this kit would perform.
For years, I’ve relied on makeshift bore guides or universal models, often finding them lacking in precision and fit. I needed a solution that offered a secure, tailored fit to prevent solvent from seeping into the action and ensure consistent cleaning rod alignment. This kit promised just that, a set of guides designed for various rifles, all at a remarkably affordable price of $13.49.
Upon unboxing, the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic felt lightweight, as expected given its plastic construction. The kit consists of nine pieces, each seemingly designed for a specific rifle type. My initial assessment focused on the fit and finish of the guides; they appeared well-molded, with no obvious defects. Compared to a more expensive, single-caliber aluminum bore guide I own, the MTM kit obviously felt less robust, but the price difference is significant. I chose this kit for its versatility and affordability, hoping it would prove to be a practical solution for cleaning a variety of rifles in my collection.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the plastic construction raised some concerns about long-term durability, the potential for a customized fit at this price point was undeniably appealing. I was eager to put the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic was at my home cleaning bench after a range trip. I primarily tested it with my AR-15, a .308 bolt action rifle, and a .223 bolt action rifle. The process was straightforward: select the appropriate guide, screw it into the chamber, and begin cleaning.
The AR-15 guide fit snugly, providing a noticeable improvement in cleaning rod alignment compared to my previous method of freehanding it. With the .308, I had to experiment with a couple of guides to get a perfect fit, but once I did, it locked in securely. The .223 also was relatively easy. The solvent overflow was noticeably reduced. No issues presented themselves during cleaning, and rod alignment was much better than without a guide.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic has held up reasonably well. There are no major cracks or breaks, although some of the guides show minor scuffing from repeated use.
The plastic construction is definitely a limiting factor in terms of durability, but with careful handling, the kit remains functional. Cleaning the guides is simple; a quick rinse with soap and water is all that’s needed. Compared to my aluminum bore guide, the MTM kit requires more delicate handling, but it’s also far more versatile, accommodating multiple calibers. So far, it has exceeded my expectations for its price point, still performing its intended function.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic
Specifications
- The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic is a 9-piece kit designed for regular rifles and AR modern sporting rifles. It’s meant to provide a more secure fit than universal guides, preventing solvent overflow and improving cleaning rod alignment.
- The screw-in design creates a tight chamber fit, aligning the bore and protecting the action area. This reduces the risk of damage to the rifle’s internal components during cleaning.
- It fits bolt diameters .695 or smaller. This covers a wide range of popular rifle calibers and actions, increasing the kit’s overall utility.
- Compatible with cleaning rods up to .375 diameter, this accommodates most standard cleaning rods. Ensuring compatibility is crucial for smooth and effective cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic performs its primary function well: guiding the cleaning rod and minimizing solvent spillage. The screw-in design provides a secure fit that is superior to universal bore guides.
The kit’s primary weakness is its plastic construction. While functional, it lacks the robustness of metal alternatives. Overall, the kit meets expectations for its price point, offering a practical solution for rifle cleaning.
Design & Ergonomics
The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic is designed for ease of use. Selecting the correct guide for your rifle is the most challenging part, but once you do, installation is simple.
The plastic material is lightweight, making the kit easy to handle and store. The ergonomics are basic but functional; there is no significant learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic is limited by its plastic construction. While it has held up for several months of regular use, it is unlikely to last as long as a metal bore guide.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple rinse with soap and water after each use is sufficient to keep the guides clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic comes as a complete kit with nine guides. There are no additional accessories or customization options available or needed.
The kit is designed to be compatible with standard cleaning rods up to .375 diameter. It does not require any specific accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. Its budget-friendly nature doesn’t sacrifice core functionality.
- Screw-in design ensures a secure and precise fit in the chamber. This dramatically reduces solvent overflow and protects the action.
- Versatile compatibility with various rifle calibers and AR platforms. This eliminates the need for multiple, specialized bore guides.
- Improved cleaning rod alignment leads to more effective bore cleaning. Better alignment translates directly into improved accuracy and rifle longevity.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only soap and water. Its simple maintenance is a bonus for shooters who value convenience.
Cons
- Plastic construction limits overall durability. It might not withstand heavy or rough use compared to metal alternatives.
- Finding the correct guide for each rifle can be slightly time-consuming. It takes some trial and error initially to identify the optimal fit.
Who Should Buy MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic?
The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want a versatile and effective bore cleaning solution. It’s also ideal for those who own multiple rifles of different calibers and prefer a single, adaptable kit. This is an excellent solution for casual shooters or those just getting started with rifle maintenance.
Those who require extreme durability or prefer premium materials should skip this product. Professional gunsmiths or competitive shooters may prefer more robust, single-caliber metal bore guides. A solvent catch system may also be required for certain users or jurisdictions.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality cleaning rod, bore brush, and solvent. Consider using a cleaning mat to protect your workspace.
Conclusion on MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic
The MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic is a surprisingly effective and affordable bore cleaning solution. It offers a secure fit, improved cleaning rod alignment, and compatibility with a wide range of rifles.
At $13.49, the price is absolutely justified. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve the accuracy and longevity of your rifles.
I would personally recommend the MTM Screw It Deluxe Bore Guide Kit Rifle Plastic to any shooter looking for a budget-friendly and versatile bore cleaning solution. Don’t let the plastic construction deter you; with careful handling, this kit will get the job done. Upgrade your cleaning routine and protect your investment today!