First Thoughts on the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide promises a simple, self-contained solution for cleaning your 20-gauge shotgun. This all-in-one system, manufactured by Real Avid, aims to ditch the multiple tools and messy solvents of traditional cleaning, and streamline the process. The integrated design, housing both brush and mop in a single handle, is immediately appealing for its potential convenience and portability.
My need for this product stemmed from frustration with the cumbersome nature of my existing cleaning kit. I’m often switching between the range and hunting grounds, and lugging around separate rods, brushes, and solvent bottles becomes a hassle. I was seeking a more efficient and portable cleaning option for my 20-gauge.
Upon unboxing, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide felt surprisingly robust. The “flex-case handle” is ergonomically shaped and provides a solid grip. The dual-action cable feels durable, and the brush and mop appear well-constructed, especially considering the $9.99 price point.
Compared to a traditional bore snake, the Bore Boss offers the advantage of a more structured cleaning action with its dedicated brush and mop. Other alternatives, like sectional cleaning rods, are more thorough but lack the portability and all-in-one design of the Bore Boss. Ultimately, I chose this product for its promise of convenience without sacrificing cleaning effectiveness.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The compact design and self-contained nature of the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is intriguing. I was eager to see if its ease of use translated into a truly effective cleaning experience, and if it could replace my traditional cleaning tools for quick, field-expedient bore maintenance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide immediately after a morning of clay shooting at my local range. The conditions were relatively dry, but the shotgun had seen a good amount of use, leaving a noticeable buildup of powder residue. The range’s cleaning station is far from where I park, so the compact nature of the Bore Boss was welcome.
Using the Bore Boss was surprisingly straightforward. I simply unscrewed the handle, fed the weighted end of the cable through the breech, and pulled it through. The ergonomic grip of the handle made it comfortable to pull the cable, even with the expected resistance of the brush and mop.
The initial pull revealed a significant amount of fouling removed from the bore. I noticed that even after one pull, the bore looked noticeably cleaner. However, the brush encountered a small amount of resistance near the choke, requiring a slightly firmer pull.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, cleaning my shotgun after each range visit and even after a few upland bird hunts, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide has held up reasonably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the cable or handle. The brush and mop still seem effective.
Maintaining the Bore Boss is incredibly easy. I simply wipe down the cable and brush after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of gun oil to the brush and mop to prevent corrosion. The flex-case handle effectively keeps the brush and mop clean when stored, a welcome feature.
Compared to my previous cleaning methods, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide doesn’t quite offer the same level of deep cleaning as a traditional rod and patches. However, for quick, convenient, and field-ready cleaning, it significantly outperforms other methods. It’s a solid option to have in a range bag for in-between deep cleans.
Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
Specifications
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns. It features a 32-inch dual-action cable, a phosphor bronze bore brush, and a 10-inch braided bore mop. The entire system is self-contained within a flex-case handle.
The 32-inch cable is sufficient for most 20-gauge barrel lengths. The dual-action design, incorporating both a brush and a mop, aims to both loosen and remove fouling in a single pass. This design, together with its handle, keeps the cleaning apparatus together and ready for use.
Performance & Functionality
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide performs admirably for its intended purpose: quick and convenient bore cleaning. It effectively removes loose powder residue and fouling. A more thorough cleaning with traditional methods is still necessary for optimal performance.
The Bore Boss’s strengths lie in its portability and ease of use. Its primary weakness is its inability to provide the same deep cleaning as more traditional methods. It meets expectations as a quick, field-expedient cleaning solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide features a durable flex-case handle. This provides a comfortable and secure grip. The all-in-one design is user-friendly and requires no assembly.
The handle design, which also serves as the storage case, is a clever and effective feature. The weight is minimal, making it easy to carry in a range bag or hunting pack. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide appears to be reasonably durable. Regular cleaning and lubrication should extend its lifespan. The design is not intended to be disassembled for repair.
Maintaining the Bore Boss is simple. Keep the cable and cleaning elements clean and lubricated. This ensures smooth operation and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is an all-in-one system and doesn’t offer any additional accessories or customization options. The product is designed to be a standalone cleaning solution. It is not compatible with other bore cleaning accessories.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
Pros
- Extremely portable and compact design. This makes it ideal for range bags and hunting packs where space is at a premium.
- Easy to use. The self-contained design and ergonomic handle make cleaning quick and simple.
- Affordable. At $9.99, it’s a budget-friendly cleaning option.
- Dual-action cleaning. The brush and mop combination effectively loosens and removes fouling.
- Self-storing handle. The flex-case handle protects the brush and mop while keeping the system clean and organized.
Cons
- Not a replacement for deep cleaning. It doesn’t offer the same level of cleaning as traditional rods and patches.
- Limited durability. The cable and brush may wear out with frequent use, requiring eventual replacement.
Who Should Buy Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide?
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is perfect for hunters, sporting clay shooters, and anyone looking for a quick and convenient way to clean their 20-gauge shotgun in the field or at the range. It’s especially useful for those who prioritize portability and ease of use over a deep, meticulous cleaning.
Those who primarily shoot lead and require a very thorough cleaning should skip this product. If you are a high-volume shooter or someone who demands a spotless bore after every session, a traditional cleaning rod and patches may be a better option. You should also consider purchasing solvent separately for use with the Bore Boss.
Conclusion on Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is a solid, affordable, and incredibly convenient cleaning solution for 20-gauge shotguns. It doesn’t replace the need for a thorough cleaning with traditional methods, but it excels at quick, field-expedient maintenance. The portability and ease of use make it a must-have for any shooter’s range bag or hunting pack.
The $9.99 price is absolutely justified for the convenience and functionality it offers. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to keep their 20-gauge bore clean between deep cleanings. Pick up a Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide and experience the convenience of a self-contained cleaning system for yourself!