First Thoughts on the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ promises a simple, effective, and self-contained solution for cleaning pistol bores. Real Avid has a reputation for practical, no-nonsense tools, and this product seems to follow suit. Its self-storing design and dual-action cleaning cable immediately caught my attention.
I’ve always struggled with bore cleaning kits that are bulky and disorganized. Small parts get lost, solvents spill, and the whole process becomes a chore. I was looking for a compact, all-in-one solution that could streamline my post-range cleaning routine, especially for my 9mm and .38 Special revolvers.
Upon unboxing, the Bore Boss feels surprisingly robust for its size and price. The polycarbonate handle, though lightweight, is sturdy and provides a comfortable grip. The dual-action cable appears well-constructed, and the flex-case is a clever design feature.
I considered the Hoppe’s BoreSnake and some traditional rod-and-patch kits, but the Bore Boss’s self-contained design and supposedly superior cleaning action swayed me. The BoreSnake is great for quick field cleaning, but I wanted something a little more thorough. The traditional kits are too cumbersome for frequent use, in my opinion.
My first impression is positive. The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ seems like a well-thought-out tool that could potentially simplify a necessary, but often dreaded, task. I’m excited to see how it performs in actual use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bore Boss at my local indoor shooting range after a session with my Glock 19 and my S&W Model 686. The range was well-ventilated, but the air still carries a good amount of burnt powder residue.
The Bore Boss was easy to use right out of the package. I simply unsnapped the handle, fed the cable through the bore from breech to muzzle, and pulled it through. The ergonomic grip made it easy to maintain a firm hold.
The cleaning action seemed effective on both firearms, though the Glock required a second pass to remove all the carbon fouling. No issues or surprises arose during the initial use, the product works as intended.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ continues to perform well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the cable or handle.
Cleaning the Bore Boss itself is straightforward. I simply wipe down the cable and brush with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of gun oil. The flex-case keeps everything contained and prevents solvents from leaking into my range bag.
Compared to my old cleaning routine, which involved multiple tools and messy patches, the Bore Boss is a significant improvement. It’s faster, cleaner, and more convenient. It reliably cleans both my 9mm and .38/.357 handguns.
Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″
Specifications
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ is specifically designed for cleaning .357 Magnum, .38 Special, and 9mm handgun barrels. It features a 12-inch dual-action cable with a phosphor bronze bore brush followed by an 8.5-inch braided bore mop.
The handle is made of a durable polycarbonate material and doubles as a flex-case for storing and protecting the cleaning components. This self-contained design is a key feature. It ensures that the brush and mop remain clean and ready for use, and it also prevents solvent residue from contaminating other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Bore Boss performs its primary function – cleaning handgun bores – effectively and efficiently. The phosphor bronze brush loosens carbon fouling, while the braided mop removes it from the bore. The dual-action design saves time and effort.
The main strength of the Bore Boss is its simplicity and convenience. Its all-in-one design eliminates the need for separate brushes, mops, and patches. One potential weakness might be its reliance on a single pass for cleaning heavily fouled barrels.
The Bore Boss meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations for a portable bore cleaner. It provides a thorough cleaning in a compact and easy-to-use package.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bore Boss’s design is both functional and ergonomic. The polycarbonate handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or oily hands.
The self-storing flex-case is a brilliant design feature. It protects the cleaning components and keeps everything organized. There is virtually no learning curve. Using the Bore Boss is intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ appears to be built to last. The cable is made from durable materials, and the handle is resistant to cracking or breaking.
Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the cable and brush clean and lightly oiled will prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ is designed as a complete cleaning system and does not require additional accessories for basic bore cleaning. There are no customization options available, nor are any truly needed. It is not really compatible with aftermarket items.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″
Pros
- Extremely compact and portable design. The self-storing flex-case makes it easy to carry in a range bag or backpack.
- Effective dual-action cleaning. The phosphor bronze brush and braided mop work together to remove carbon fouling quickly and efficiently.
- Easy to use. The ergonomic handle and straightforward design make it simple to clean handgun bores.
- Affordable price. At around $10, it’s an accessible cleaning tool for any handgun owner.
- Durable construction. The polycarbonate handle and quality cleaning cable provide good longevity.
Cons
- May require multiple passes for heavily fouled barrels. One pass might not always be enough.
- Limited to .357/.38/9mm handguns. It’s not a universal cleaning tool.
Who Should Buy Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″?
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ is perfect for handgun owners who want a compact, portable, and easy-to-use bore cleaning solution. It’s ideal for range trips, field maintenance, or anyone who wants to streamline their cleaning routine.
Those who prefer traditional cleaning methods with rods, patches, and solvents may want to skip this product. Also, individuals who own firearms in calibers other than .357/.38/9mm will need a different cleaning tool.
A good solvent or CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) is a must-have accessory to use in conjunction with the Bore Boss for optimal cleaning.
Conclusion on Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ is a well-designed and effective tool that simplifies handgun bore cleaning. Its compact design, dual-action cleaning, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s range bag.
The price is absolutely justified. For $9.99, you get a durable and reliable cleaning tool that will last for years.
I would definitely recommend the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ to any handgun owner looking for a convenient and effective bore cleaning solution. Get yours today and simplify your cleaning routine!