The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning a shotgun, especially a 12 gauge, is a necessary evil for any responsible firearm owner. Neglecting this task leads to malfunctions, decreased accuracy, and potentially dangerous situations. I’ve seen too many beautiful shotguns rendered useless from poor maintenance over my 10+ years of experience. That’s why I was intrigued by the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit, a seemingly comprehensive and affordable solution from Shooter’s Choice.
My main problem was finding a compact and complete cleaning kit that wouldn’t break the bank. I was tired of piecing together individual components. Unboxing the Shooter’s Choice Kit, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The components felt solid enough for the price, and the inclusion of FP-10 Lubricant was a definite plus.
I considered other kits from Hoppe’s and Otis Technology. Ultimately, I chose the Shooter’s Choice kit for its price point and the promise of brass components that wouldn’t harm my bore. The other kits, while good, were significantly more expensive for what seemed like similar functionality. My first impression? Cautiously optimistic. Could this budget-friendly kit actually deliver?
Real-World Testing: Putting Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit at my local shooting range after a particularly messy clay shooting session. My trusty Benelli Super Black Eagle II was caked in powder residue and plastic wad shavings. The day was sunny, but a slight breeze carried dust that seemed to cling to everything.
The kit was easy to use right out of the box. I attached the brush to the rod and started scrubbing the bore. The included FP-10 lubricant made the process smoother. Initially, I felt a bit of resistance, but after a few passes, the fouling started to loosen up. I encountered no major issues during this first cleaning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit has held up surprisingly well. There is minimal wear and tear on the brass components. However, the included patches are used up quickly.
Maintaining the kit is simple; a quick wipe down of the rods and brushes after each use keeps everything in good condition. Compared to my previous method of using random brushes and rods, this kit provides a more organized and efficient cleaning experience. While it may not be the most heavy-duty kit on the market, for the price, it has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit
Specifications
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit includes the following:
- Cleans 12 Gauge shotguns: Specifically designed for 12 GA.
- (5) brass rod sections: With male/female 8/32 threaded ends and swivel handle rod for easy cleaning. This allows for a customizable rod length.
- 3″ 12ga bronze phosphor bore brush: Designed for effective scrubbing of powder residue.
- 3″ 12 GA cotton bore mop: For applying solvents and absorbing loosened fouling.
- 20 count 2.5″x2.5″ cleaning patches: For wiping the bore clean.
- Nylon All-Purpose cleaning brush: For cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- 12 GA brass pierce point jag and three felt pads: For a tight patch fit and efficient cleaning.
- Shotgun 8/32 to 5/16-27 threaded end adaptor: To attach different brushes and accessories.
- 0.5 fl. oz. bottle of FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP: A combined cleaner, lubricant, and protectant.
These specifications are important because they provide a complete solution for cleaning a 12-gauge shotgun. The brass components minimize the risk of damaging the bore, and the included lubricant helps to loosen fouling and protect against rust. The segmented rod is practical for storage and transportation.
Performance & Functionality
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit performs its job admirably, especially considering its price point. It effectively removes powder residue, plastic wad fouling, and other debris from the shotgun bore. The brass brush is aggressive enough to scrub away stubborn deposits, while the cotton mop helps to apply solvents and absorb loosened fouling.
One strength is the inclusion of FP-10 Lubricant Elite CLP. It significantly aids in cleaning and protecting the firearm. A minor weakness is the limited number of cleaning patches; you’ll likely need to purchase more relatively quickly. It meets expectations for basic cleaning.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit is well-designed for ease of use. The brass rods are easy to assemble and disassemble, and the swivel handle provides a comfortable grip. The included brushes and mops are properly sized for a 12-gauge shotgun.
The build quality is decent for the price. The materials are not top-of-the-line, but they are durable enough for regular use. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit should last for a reasonable amount of time. The brass components are resistant to corrosion. The kit is easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit comes with all the essential accessories needed for cleaning a 12-gauge shotgun. The included adapter allows the user to attach other 8/32 threaded brushes and accessories. This enhances the versatility of the kit.
Pros and Cons of Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most budget-friendly complete cleaning kits available.
- Brass Components: Minimizes the risk of damaging the shotgun bore.
- Includes FP-10 Lubricant: A high-quality CLP for cleaning, lubricating, and protecting.
- Complete Kit: Contains all the essentials for basic shotgun cleaning.
- Easy to Use: Simple and straightforward design.
Cons
- Limited Number of Patches: Runs out quickly with frequent use.
- Lower-End Materials: Durability may not be on par with premium kits.
Who Should Buy Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit?
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit is perfect for:
- Casual shooters: Who want a simple and affordable cleaning solution.
- New shotgun owners: Who need a starter kit with all the essentials.
- Hunters: Who need a portable and easy-to-use cleaning kit for the field.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who require a very durable, long-lasting kit might want to invest in a higher-end option from Otis Technology or Real Avid.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Additional cleaning patches.
Conclusion on Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit
The Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit is an excellent value for the money. It provides a complete and effective cleaning solution for 12-gauge shotguns at an affordable price. While it may not be the most durable kit on the market, it is more than adequate for most casual shooters and new shotgun owners.
At $12.99, the price is definitely justified. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and effective shotgun cleaning kit. Don’t let a dirty shotgun ruin your next shooting experience. Grab the Shooter’s Choice 12 Gauge Shotgun Cleaning Kit and keep your firearm in top condition!