Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit Review

The Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit Made a Bold First Impression

In the realm of firearm maintenance, a reliable cleaning kit is as essential as the firearm itself. The Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit promises to be that dependable companion, offering a comprehensive solution for gun owners of various firearm types. Outers aims to deliver a one-stop cleaning solution without breaking the bank. This kit immediately caught my eye due to its “universal” claim, appealing to the diverse collection of firearms in my safe.

As someone with over a decade immersed in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless cleaning kits come and go. Many promise universality but fall short when faced with the reality of different calibers and firearm designs. I was looking for a kit that could truly serve as a go-to for routine maintenance on my rifles, pistols, and shotguns. The attractive price point certainly piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, the kit presents a neatly organized array of components within its reusable clamshell. The three brass rods immediately feel sturdy, and the bronze brushes appear well-made. The inclusion of various jags and loops suggests a thoughtful approach to accommodating different firearm types. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the components seemed well-organized, but I reserved judgment on their actual quality and performance until field testing.

Compared to other kits I’ve used, such as the Hoppe’s Deluxe Gun Cleaning Kit or the Otis Technology Cleaning System, the Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit appears to offer similar functionality at a significantly lower price. I chose this kit primarily for its claimed universality and affordability. I was initially excited by the potential for a versatile and budget-friendly cleaning solution, but also slightly apprehensive about whether the quality would match the promise.

Real-World Testing: Putting Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit at my local shooting range after a morning of target practice with my AR-15 rifle and 9mm handgun. The range environment provided a realistic scenario with typical carbon fouling and residue buildup. I used the kit to clean both firearms immediately after shooting to assess its effectiveness on relatively fresh fouling.

The kit performed adequately in dry conditions. The brass rods screwed together securely, providing sufficient length for cleaning the rifle barrel. The bronze brushes effectively loosened carbon deposits in both the rifle and handgun. I did encounter a slight challenge when using the smaller caliber jags. The patches tended to bunch up.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use and cleaning approximately six different firearms, the Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit revealed both its strengths and limitations. The brass rods remain sturdy, but the bronze brushes are showing signs of wear, with some bristles beginning to flatten. The jags and loops continue to perform adequately, although the patch loops are somewhat flimsy and prone to bending.

The kit is relatively easy to maintain. A quick wipe down of the rods and brushes after each use is sufficient to keep them clean. However, the clamshell case is somewhat awkward to organize, and I find myself frequently rearranging the components to fit them back properly. Compared to my higher-end cleaning kits, the Outers kit definitely shows its budget origins in terms of long-term durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit

Specifications

The Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit includes:

• 3 solid brass rods: These rods connect to form a cleaning rod of adequate length for most rifles and shotguns. The brass material is intended to prevent scratching the bore.
• 5 bronze brushes: These brushes are designed to loosen fouling and debris from the bore. The bronze material is chosen for its cleaning power and relative softness to prevent damage to the firearm’s internal surfaces.
• 6 cleaning jags: The jags serve to hold cleaning patches securely for effective bore cleaning. Different sizes are provided to accommodate various calibers.
• 2 patch loops: These loops provide an alternative method for attaching cleaning patches, especially useful for larger calibers or when a tighter fit is desired.
• 1 adapter: This adapter allows for compatibility with different thread sizes of cleaning accessories. This expands the kit’s versatility.
• 1 gun cloth: A basic cloth for wiping down the exterior of the firearm. This helps to remove fingerprints and surface dirt.
• 50 patches: Cleaning patches are the consumable component used to absorb solvents and remove fouling from the bore. 50 patches is a decent start but will require replenishment over time.

These specifications matter because they determine the kit’s overall effectiveness and versatility. The brass rods provide structural integrity, while the bronze brushes and jags facilitate thorough cleaning. The adapter expands compatibility, and the cleaning patches are essential for removing fouling.

Performance & Functionality

The Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit performs adequately for basic firearm cleaning. It effectively removes carbon fouling and residue from the bore and action. However, it lacks the specialized tools and accessories found in more comprehensive kits, such as bore snakes or chamber brushes.

The strengths of the kit lie in its affordability and universality. It provides a basic cleaning solution for a wide range of firearms at a budget-friendly price. The main weakness is the quality of some components, particularly the patch loops and the limited quantity of cleaning patches. It meets basic expectations for a budget cleaning kit but does not exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit is acceptable for its price point. The materials used are adequate, although not exceptionally durable. The weight is reasonable, making it easy to carry in a range bag.

The kit is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. However, the clamshell case could be better designed for organization and ease of access.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit is a concern for long-term use. The bronze brushes and patch loops are likely to wear out over time, requiring replacement. The kit is easy to maintain with regular cleaning of the components.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit comes with a basic set of accessories, including the brushes, jags, loops, and patches. There are no specific customization options for the kit itself. However, the adapter allows for the use of aftermarket brushes and jags with compatible thread sizes.

Pros and Cons of Outers 19 Piece Universal Cleaning Kit