Let’s Dive into Outers Black Powder Mops
The Outers Black Powder Mops are a seemingly simple, yet essential tool for anyone who owns and shoots a black powder rifle. Manufactured by Outers, a reputable name in gun cleaning, these mops are designed to effectively remove fouling from the bore of your black powder firearm, ensuring consistent accuracy and preventing corrosion. I’ve been involved in black powder shooting for over a decade, from mountain man rendezvous to competitive target shooting, and consistent cleaning is paramount.
What brought me to Outers Black Powder Mops was the need for a reliable, disposable, and inexpensive way to keep my .50 caliber Hawken rifle clean at the range during long shooting sessions. I was tired of using patches that would sometimes get stuck, and I needed something quick and easy. These promised to be the answer.
Upon receiving the Outers Black Powder Mops, I was initially impressed by their simple, no-frills design. The mop head felt securely attached to the shaft, and the fibers appeared absorbent enough to do the job. They are lightweight and easy to pack in a range bag or possibles pouch.
Compared to using traditional cotton patches and jag combinations, the mops offered a perceived convenience. Other options like bore snakes didn’t provide the immediate saturation I needed for black powder cleaning. I ultimately chose Outers Black Powder Mops for their low cost and disposable nature.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. They seemed like a simple solution, and I was eager to see if they lived up to their promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outers Black Powder Mops to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, during a black powder competition. The weather was typically unpredictable, ranging from sunny to brief periods of light rain. I used the Outers Black Powder Mops after each string of shots, primarily with a black powder solvent like Ballistol.
The mops proved surprisingly easy to use. After saturating the mop with solvent, I simply ran it down the bore a few times. They seemed to pick up the fouling effectively. No fumbling with patches, and the bore was left damp with solvent, ready for the next round.
However, I did encounter a minor issue: the fibers would occasionally shed, leaving small strands in the bore. I addressed this by running a clean patch afterward.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Outers Black Powder Mops have become a regular part of my cleaning routine. They are especially handy for quick cleanings at the range. They don’t replace a thorough cleaning with patches at home, but they are great for preventing fouling buildup during a shooting session.
The mops themselves don’t show significant wear and tear, but they are designed to be disposable. I typically get several uses out of each mop before discarding it. Maintenance is non-existent: use them, and toss them.
Compared to my previous method of using patches and jags, the Outers Black Powder Mops are faster and more convenient for range use. Patches definitely provide a more thorough clean, but these mops are ideal for a quick scrub down when time is of the essence.
Breaking Down the Features of Outers Black Powder Mops
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Outers
- Projectile Caliber: .50 Caliber
These specifications are crucial because they ensure the mop is the correct size for your .50 caliber black powder rifle, providing optimal cleaning. The Outers name guarantees a minimum level of quality.
Performance & Functionality
The Outers Black Powder Mops excel at quickly removing loose fouling from the bore. They are not designed for deep cleaning, but they are effective for maintaining a clean bore during shooting sessions. The strength is in their simplicity and speed.
A minor weakness is the occasional shedding of fibers. While not a major issue, it does require an extra step to ensure the bore is completely clean. They meet expectations for a quick, convenient range cleaning tool, but don’t replace a thorough patch cleaning.
Design & Ergonomics
The Outers Black Powder Mops feature a simple, straightforward design. The mop head is securely attached to a sturdy shaft. They are lightweight and easy to handle, making them comfortable to use.
The mops are incredibly user-friendly. There is absolutely no learning curve: saturate with solvent and swab the bore.
Durability & Maintenance
The Outers Black Powder Mops are designed to be disposable. While they can be used multiple times, they are not meant to last indefinitely. Maintenance is minimal: simply discard them when they become too dirty or worn.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outers Black Powder Mops are a standalone product. They do not come with any accessories, nor are there any customization options. Their primary function is to be used with a black powder solvent of your choice. They are compatible with most .50 caliber cleaning rods.
Pros and Cons of Outers Black Powder Mops
Pros
- Inexpensive and disposable: They are a cost-effective solution for range cleaning.
- Easy and quick to use: No fumbling with patches or jags.
- Effective for removing loose fouling: Keeps the bore clean during shooting sessions.
- Convenient size for range bags: Easy to pack and transport.
- Helps prevent corrosion: By quickly removing fouling, they protect the bore from rust.
Cons
- May shed fibers: Requires an extra step to ensure a completely clean bore.
- Not a replacement for thorough cleaning: Patches are still needed for a deep clean.
Who Should Buy Outers Black Powder Mops?
- Perfect for: Black powder shooters who want a quick and easy way to clean their rifles at the range. This includes recreational shooters, hunters, and competitors.
- Who should skip this product? Shooters who are looking for a comprehensive cleaning solution. These mops are best used in conjunction with traditional cleaning methods.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Black powder solvent (Ballistol, Hoppe’s No. 9 Black Powder Solvent, etc.) and a supply of cleaning patches for follow-up cleaning.
Conclusion on Outers Black Powder Mops
The Outers Black Powder Mops are a simple yet effective tool for maintaining a clean bore during black powder shooting sessions. While they are not a replacement for thorough cleaning with patches, they offer a convenient and inexpensive way to quickly remove fouling at the range.
At a price of $2.45, the value proposition is excellent. They are an affordable addition to any black powder shooter’s cleaning kit.
I would personally recommend the Outers Black Powder Mops to anyone who shoots black powder rifles. They are a useful and practical tool that makes cleaning at the range much easier. Add them to your cleaning kit and experience the convenience for yourself.