The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning shotguns has always been a necessary evil, especially after a day of sporting clays or chasing upland birds. The fouling from shotshells can be relentless, and lugging around a traditional cleaning kit with segmented rods, brushes, and solvents feels like overkill for a quick field clean. That’s where the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide comes in. This all-in-one bore cleaner from Real Avid promised a simpler, faster, and more portable solution, and I was eager to see if it delivered.
I was constantly looking for a way to simplify my cleaning routine after long days in the field. I was tired of carrying cumbersome cleaning kits, and the promise of a self-contained, easy-to-use bore cleaner was immediately appealing. Unboxing the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide, I was struck by its compact and robust design. The flex-case handle felt solid, and the dual-action cable had a quality look and feel.
Compared to traditional cleaning rods and segmented pull-through kits, the Bore Boss aimed for a more streamlined experience. I was considering the Hoppe’s BoreSnake, but the integrated handle and storage of the Bore Boss seemed more practical for my needs. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The concept was great, but I needed to see if it held up in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the sporting clays range after a particularly messy session with some budget-friendly shells. The range was outdoors, and a slight breeze was kicking up dust. Using the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide was straightforward: I fed the cable through the bore from breech to muzzle.
The phosphor bronze brush did a decent job of loosening the powder residue. Pulling the braided mop through next, I noticed it picked up a significant amount of grime. The flex-case handle provided a comfortable grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I could clean the bore, and it was definitely faster and easier than using my traditional segmented rod.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, primarily after range sessions and dove hunts, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide has proven its worth. It lives in my shotgun case, ready for immediate use. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the cable or the handle, which speaks to its durability.
Cleaning the Bore Boss itself is relatively simple: a quick wipe down with a solvent-soaked cloth removes any residue from the brush and mop. The storage case keeps everything contained. Compared to my previous cleaning methods, the Bore Boss offers a significant improvement in convenience and portability, without sacrificing cleaning performance.
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. Its self-contained design is its key feature.
- It features a 32-inch dual-action cable with an integrated phosphor bronze brush and braided bore mop. This combination is designed to loosen and remove fouling in a single pass.
- The flex-case handle provides an ergonomic grip and serves as storage for the brush and mop. This prevents damage and keeps solvents from contaminating other gear.
- The product includes one Bore Boss. The single-piece construction minimizes the risk of losing parts.
- The price is $9.99. This makes it an affordable and accessible cleaning solution.
Performance & Functionality
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide performs its primary function – cleaning a shotgun bore – effectively. It’s quicker and easier than using a traditional cleaning rod. While it may not provide the same deep clean as a thorough scrubbing with patches and solvent, it’s sufficient for routine maintenance and field cleaning.
The primary strength is its convenience. It’s a simple, all-in-one solution that can be used anywhere. The main weakness is that it doesn’t replace a comprehensive cleaning kit for detailed maintenance. It meets expectations as a portable and convenient bore cleaner.
Design & Ergonomics
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide has a practical and well-thought-out design. The materials used are durable, and the flex-case handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Its intuitive design makes it easy to use, even for novice shooters. The compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
Durability & Maintenance
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide appears to be durable and capable of withstanding regular use. The cable is robust, and the handle seems well-constructed. With proper care, it should last for a reasonable amount of time.
Maintaining the Bore Boss is simple: a quick cleaning after each use will help prolong its lifespan. No specialized tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide is a self-contained unit and doesn’t require additional accessories for its primary function. There are no customization options. It is not compatible with other cleaning accessories.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
Pros
- Extremely portable and compact design.
- Easy and quick to use, even in the field.
- Affordable price point.
- Integrated handle for comfortable grip and storage.
- Effective for routine bore cleaning.
Cons
- Not a replacement for a full cleaning kit for deep cleaning.
- May not remove heavy fouling as effectively as traditional methods.
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 and sporting clays enthusiasts who need a quick and convenient way to clean their shotguns in the field or at the range. It is also suitable for casual shooters who want a simple and easy-to-use cleaning solution.
Those seeking a deep, thorough clean or those who prefer traditional cleaning methods should skip this product. A must-have is a quality solvent to help loosen stubborn fouling before using the Bore Boss.
Conclusion on Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide offers a compelling combination of convenience, portability, and affordability. For a price of $9.99, the value is definitely justified. It’s not a replacement for a full cleaning kit, but it’s an excellent tool for routine maintenance and quick field cleaning.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who wants to simplify their shotgun cleaning routine. If you’re tired of lugging around bulky cleaning kits, give the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 20 GA Bore Guide a try. You might be surprised at how much easier cleaning your shotgun can be.