First Impressions of Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit promises a comprehensive solution for maintaining your favorite shotgun, offering everything needed for basic cleaning in one package. Coming from Shooter’s Choice, a company with a solid reputation for quality cleaning supplies, I was eager to see if this kit lived up to the hype, especially given its attractive price point. After years of piecing together cleaning kits from various brands, a convenient all-in-one solution sounded incredibly appealing.
My shotgun collection, primarily used for upland bird hunting and occasional skeet shooting, demands regular maintenance. I’ve always been meticulous about cleaning, but I often found myself rummaging through boxes for the right brush, mop, or patches. The promise of a single, organized kit was the main driver behind my decision to try the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit.
Upon unboxing, the kit presented a neat and organized layout. The aluminum rod set felt surprisingly sturdy, and the included accessories seemed well-made, considering the price. Compared to some higher-end kits I’ve used in the past, like those from Otis Technology, which focus on cable-based systems, the Shooter’s Choice kit appears more traditional. While the Otis kits boast compactness, the Shooter’s Choice kit aims for simplicity and affordability.
My initial impression was positive, a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to test its functionality and durability in the field, especially compared to my existing collection of disparate cleaning tools. Time will tell if the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit becomes a permanent fixture in my gun care arsenal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test came after a particularly muddy pheasant hunt in South Dakota. My trusty 12-gauge Beretta A400 Xtreme Unico was caked in dried mud and residue. This was the perfect opportunity to see what the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit could do.
Using the included bore guide, aluminum rod set, and bronze brush, cleaning the barrel was straightforward. The swivel t-handle made pushing the brush through the bore relatively easy, even with the heavy fouling. The FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP seemed effective in loosening the stubborn residue, and the patches did a decent job of wiping away the grime. No immediate issues arose, but I did notice the patches were a bit thin compared to some premium brands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit following various hunting trips and range sessions, it has held up reasonably well. The aluminum rod set remains straight, and the brush and mop heads haven’t frayed excessively. I clean my shotguns after every use, averaging about two cleanings per month.
The kit shows some signs of wear, primarily on the plastic bore guide, which has developed minor scratches. However, overall durability is acceptable, especially given the price point. Maintenance is simple; the brushes and mops can be cleaned with solvent and dried thoroughly. Compared to my older, more expensive kits, the Shooter’s Choice kit performs adequately for basic cleaning, but it doesn’t quite match the robustness of higher-end components.
Breaking Down the Features of Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit
Specifications
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns, featuring an aluminum rod set with an 8/32 female threaded end. It includes a shotgun 8-32 to 5/16-27 thread adapter, enhancing versatility. The kit boasts a 3in 12 GA bronze phosphor bore brush and a 3in 12 GA cotton bore mop, essential for thorough cleaning.
Further inclusions are a 12 GA pierce point jag, a 12 GA slotted tip, and 20 count 2 1/2in 100% cotton cleaning patches. A nylon all-purpose cleaning brush aids in cleaning various gun parts, and the kit includes a 0.5 fl. oz. bottle of FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP. The assembled kit measures approximately 10 inches in height, 4.5 inches in width, and 1.4 inches in depth, crafted from aluminum.
These specifications offer a complete cleaning solution for 12-gauge shotguns, from removing fouling to lubricating moving parts. The aluminum rod set provides a lightweight yet sturdy tool, while the various brushes and jags ensure comprehensive bore cleaning. The included CLP lubricant helps to protect against corrosion and ensures smooth operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit performs its primary function of cleaning a 12-gauge shotgun adequately. The bronze brush effectively removes powder residue and plastic wad fouling from the bore. The cotton mop then helps to absorb any remaining solvent and moisture. The FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP provides good lubrication and corrosion protection.
One potential weakness is the quality of the cotton patches; they are somewhat thin and may require more frequent replacement. The aluminum rods, while sturdy, might not be as durable as stainless steel options in the long run. However, given the price point, the kit meets expectations for basic cleaning needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit is decent for its price. The aluminum rod set is lightweight and easy to handle, and the swivel t-handle provides comfortable grip and leverage. The included components are well-organized within the kit.
The design is relatively user-friendly, even for beginners. The only potential learning curve might be familiarizing oneself with the proper use of each attachment (brush, mop, jag). Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit should last for a reasonable amount of time, perhaps a few years, with regular use. The bronze brush and cotton mop will eventually need to be replaced, depending on the frequency of use and the level of fouling.
The aluminum rods are relatively easy to maintain; cleaning them with a solvent and drying them thoroughly will prevent corrosion. The kit itself requires minimal maintenance; keeping it organized and storing it in a dry place will extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit comes with essential accessories for cleaning a 12-gauge shotgun. The kit doesn’t offer extensive customization options, but users can easily replace worn-out brushes, mops, or patches with aftermarket alternatives.
The included thread adapter allows for compatibility with a range of other cleaning attachments. Users might consider adding a bore snake for quick, field cleaning, or a higher-quality bore solvent for more stubborn fouling. The kit is compatible with most standard 12-gauge cleaning accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for all shotgun owners.
- Comprehensive kit includes all essential components for basic cleaning.
- Aluminum rod set with swivel handle is lightweight and easy to use.
- FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP provides effective lubrication and corrosion protection.
- Organized and compact packaging for easy storage and transport.
Cons
- Cotton patches are relatively thin and may require frequent replacement.
- Aluminum rods may not be as durable as stainless steel options in the long run.
Who Should Buy Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit?
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit is perfect for casual shotgun owners, recreational shooters, and hunters who need a reliable and affordable cleaning solution. It’s also a good option for beginners who are just starting to learn about gun maintenance.
Those who require a more robust and durable kit for frequent or heavy-duty cleaning, such as competitive shooters or professional hunters, might want to consider higher-end options. Also, individuals who prefer cable-based cleaning systems should explore alternatives. A must-have addition to this kit is a higher-quality pack of cotton patches.
Conclusion on Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit offers a solid value proposition for shotgun owners seeking an affordable and comprehensive cleaning solution. While it may not boast the highest-end components, it provides adequate performance and functionality for basic cleaning needs. The price is definitely justified for what you get.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to maintain their 12-gauge shotgun. For a little over $15, it’s hard to go wrong. Grab the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Cleaning Kit today and keep your shotgun in top condition!