Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ Review

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ Made a Bold First Impression

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ isn’t exactly the kind of thing that gets the pulse racing like a new rifle or pistol. This humble cleaning kit, manufactured by Pro-Shot, promises to keep your .38 to .45 caliber firearms in tip-top shape. But can something so simple truly impress a seasoned gun owner who’s seen it all?

I stumbled upon the Pro-Shot kit while searching for a compact cleaning solution for my range bag. I needed something more space-efficient than the bulky cleaning kits I typically use at home. The Pro-Shot kit’s promise of portability and its focus on the popular .38-.45 caliber range caught my attention.

The kit arrives in a clear, reusable plastic tube with a hanging cap. It’s surprisingly lightweight but feels sturdy enough for its purpose. The initial impression is one of thoughtful simplicity, a no-frills approach that focuses on the essentials.

Compared to other cleaning kits I own, the Pro-Shot stands out due to its compact design. I have larger, universal kits with every conceivable attachment, but they are hardly practical for the range. I passed on some cheaper alternatives because they seemed poorly constructed. The Pro-Shot’s all-in-one tube looked like a winner.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t a flashy presentation, but the components seemed well-made. The promise of a stainless steel rod and quality brushes gave me hope that this little kit could deliver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ to the range after a long session with my .45 ACP 1911. The range was relatively clean and dry, but carbon fouling is always a factor after putting rounds downrange. I wanted to see how the kit handled a typical post-shooting cleaning.

The kit was easy to use right out of the tube. I attached the brass patch holder to the rod and ran a solvent-soaked patch through the barrel. The rod felt solid and didn’t bend or flex excessively.

After the initial solvent cleaning, I used the brass core/nylon bore brush. The brush moved smoothly through the bore, effectively scrubbing away fouling. I noticed some black residue on the brush after a few passes.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ has held up remarkably well. The stainless steel rod remains straight and the threads for the attachments are still secure. The nylon bore brush shows minimal wear despite multiple uses.

There are some minor signs of wear on the brass patch holder. This is expected, given the constant friction against the bore. Cleaning the kit itself is incredibly simple.

The Pro-Shot kit has exceeded my expectations for a product in this price range. It’s not a replacement for a full-sized cleaning setup for a deep clean. But it’s perfect for quick maintenance at the range or in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″

Specifications

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ is designed for cleaning firearms chambered in .38 to .45 caliber. It features a 6.5-inch stationary handle, providing a solid grip during cleaning. The kit includes a stainless steel, micro-polished rod for smooth bore travel.

A brass patch holder accommodates cleaning patches of various sizes. A muzzle guard prevents damage to the firearm’s crown. The kit also includes a brass core/nylon bore brush for effective scrubbing.

The entire kit is housed in a reusable tube with a hanging cap for easy storage and transport. The materials used are durable, intended to withstand regular use. The overall length of the kit is compact enough to fit in most range bags.

Performance & Functionality

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ performs its primary function – cleaning firearms – effectively. The stainless steel rod is rigid enough to push patches and brushes through the bore without excessive bending. The brass patch holder securely holds patches, preventing them from detaching during cleaning.

The nylon bore brush effectively removes carbon fouling and lead deposits. The muzzle guard is a welcome addition, protecting the crown from accidental damage. The compact size makes it ideal for range bag use.

The kit’s main weakness is its size. It’s not suitable for cleaning longer-barreled rifles or shotguns. However, for its intended purpose – pistol cleaning – it excels.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pro-Shot kit’s design is simple and functional. The 6.5-inch handle provides a comfortable grip, even with wet or oily hands. The stainless steel rod is smooth and easy to maneuver.

The compact size of the kit makes it highly portable. There’s no steep learning curve. It’s intuitive and easy to use, even for novice gun owners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ appears to be quite durable. The stainless steel rod and brass components should last for years with proper care. The nylon bore brush may eventually wear out. Replacements are readily available.

Maintenance is simple. Clean the rod and attachments with solvent after each use. Store the kit in a dry place to prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″ comes with a stainless steel, micro-polished rod, a brass patch holder, a muzzle guard, and a brass core/nylon bore brush. The only real “customization” is selecting appropriate cleaning patches and solvents. The kit is compatible with standard-sized cleaning patches and bore brushes. Aftermarket bore brushes with different bristle materials (bronze, etc.) can be used with the rod if desired.

Pros and Cons of Pro-Shot Classic Tube Kit Starter Pistol .38-45 Cal Nylon 6.5″