The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning a handgun, especially after a long day at the range, is rarely a task I look forward to. Carbon fouling and stubborn residue can make the process tedious and time-consuming. The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ promises a simpler, faster solution with its self-storing design and integrated brush and mop. Could this compact tool truly make bore cleaning a less onerous chore?
Years of tactical training and competitive shooting have made me a firm believer in maintaining firearms in peak condition. I was searching for a compact and efficient cleaning solution for my 9mm and .38 Special handguns when I stumbled upon the Bore Boss. I was intrigued by the promise of a single-pass cleaning system that could be easily stowed in my range bag.
My first impression upon unboxing the Bore Boss was positive; it felt surprisingly robust for its size. The polycarbonate flex-case handle seemed sturdy, and the dual-action cable had a reassuring weight to it. Compared to using a traditional bore snake or segmented cleaning rod, the self-contained design was a significant advantage.
I had considered other bore cleaning options, such as the Hoppe’s BoreSnake and traditional cleaning rods. I chose the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ because of its compact design and self-storing feature. The price point of $9.99 was also a compelling factor.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. I was eager to see if the Bore Boss could live up to the manufacturer, Real Avid‘s, claims of ease of use and effective cleaning.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ came after a rigorous training session at my local shooting range. I primarily used it on my Glock 19 (9mm) and a Smith & Wesson Model 686 (.357 Magnum). The range was moderately dusty, a typical environment for outdoor shooting in my area.
The Bore Boss proved remarkably easy to use right out of the package. Its ergonomic grip made pulling the cable through the bore comfortable, even with the tight fit. I found the single-pass cleaning action to be surprisingly effective in removing loose powder residue and carbon fouling.
One minor issue I noticed was that the braided bore mop left some lint in the bore on the first pass. This was easily remedied by a second pass and is common with new bore mops.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ continues to impress me with its reliability and durability. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the flex-case handle or the dual-action cable. The phosphor bronze bore brush maintains its shape and effectiveness, even after multiple uses.
Cleaning the Bore Boss itself is surprisingly simple. A quick rinse with solvent and a wipe down with a clean cloth are usually sufficient. This is a significant advantage over traditional bore snakes, which can be difficult to clean thoroughly.
Compared to my previous method of using a bore snake and separate brushes, the Bore Boss is a clear winner in terms of convenience and portability. The single-pass cleaning action saves time, and the self-storing design keeps my range bag organized. It definitely outperforms my old cleaning routine.
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″ boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and ease of use. It is designed for .357/.38/9mm handguns, making it versatile for owners of multiple firearms. The 12-inch dual-action cable is constructed from a durable material designed to withstand repeated use.
The 8.5-inch braided bore mop effectively removes fouling from the bore. The phosphor bronze bore brush loosens carbon and debris ahead of the mop. The polycarbonate flex-case handle is designed for ergonomic comfort and stores/protects the cleaning components.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the effectiveness and convenience of the cleaning process. The dual-action cable ensures thorough cleaning, while the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip. The self-storing design protects the brush and mop and prevents solvent from contaminating other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ excels at its primary function: cleaning handgun bores quickly and efficiently. Its single-pass cleaning action removes the majority of fouling, leaving the bore relatively clean. However, for extremely heavy fouling, a second pass or additional cleaning may be required.
The tool’s strengths lie in its convenience, portability, and ease of use. The only weakness is that it might not be aggressive enough for heavily fouled bores. It generally meets expectations for a quick and convenient cleaning tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes user comfort and functionality. The polycarbonate flex-case handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a range bag or field kit.
The tool is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special skills or tools to operate. There is virtually no learning curve; simply insert the cable into the bore and pull it through.
Durability & Maintenance
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ appears to be built to last, with durable materials and solid construction. The flex-case handle is made from robust polycarbonate, and the dual-action cable is designed to withstand repeated use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply clean the brush and mop with solvent after each use and allow them to dry completely. The self-storing design protects the cleaning components from damage and contamination.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ comes as a complete, self-contained unit, with no additional accessories required. There are no customization options available for the Bore Boss itself, as it is a single, integrated tool.
It is designed to be compatible with any standard gun cleaning solvents and oils. It can easily be used in conjunction with other cleaning tools, such as patches and cleaning rods, for a more thorough cleaning.
Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″
Pros
- Convenient and portable design: The self-storing flex-case handle makes it easy to carry and store.
- Easy to use: The single-pass cleaning action simplifies the bore cleaning process.
- Durable construction: The polycarbonate handle and dual-action cable are built to last.
- Affordable price: At $9.99, it’s an excellent value for the money.
- Effective for light cleaning: Removes loose powder residue and carbon fouling quickly.
Cons
- May not be aggressive enough for heavy fouling: A second pass or additional cleaning may be required for heavily fouled bores.
- Bore mop can shed lint: Some lint may be left in the bore on the first pass, especially when new.
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 casual shooters, range enthusiasts, and anyone who values convenience and portability in their firearm cleaning tools. It is also ideal for those who want a quick and easy way to clean their handguns after a day at the range.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters or gunsmiths who require a more thorough and detailed cleaning process. It also might not be suitable for cleaning firearms with extremely heavy fouling.
A must-have accessory for use with the Bore Boss is a quality gun cleaning solvent. Gun oil is useful for lubricating the bore after 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 affordable tool that simplifies handgun bore cleaning. Its compact design, ease of use, and durable construction make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s cleaning kit. While it may not replace a full cleaning kit for detailed work, it excels at quick, convenient cleaning.
The price of $9.99 is more than justified by the convenience and time savings it offers. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to make bore cleaning a less tedious chore.
I would definitely recommend the Real Avid/Revo Bore Boss 9mm/38/357 Polycarbonate 8.50″ to anyone looking for a fast, easy, and portable bore cleaning solution. Add one to your range bag today and experience the difference!