The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning a firearm is a necessary evil. For years, I’ve used a variety of solvents, often spending what felt like an eternity scrubbing and patching. Shooters Choice promises a one-step solution with their MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle, a claim I was eager to investigate given my extensive experience with the frustrations of stubborn fouling.
My initial foray into firearm maintenance started with my grandfather, an old Marine who swore by elbow grease and Hoppe’s No. 9. While nostalgic, that method is time-consuming and leaves a distinct odor. I’ve since tried everything from CLP (Clean, Lubricate, Protect) products to dedicated copper solvents, always searching for that elusive balance of efficacy and ease of use.
When the Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle arrived, I immediately noted the professional, no-nonsense labeling. The 16 oz bottle feels substantial, suggesting a long-lasting supply. I’ve used Break Free CLP and Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner extensively; the MC 7 seemed positioned as a direct competitor to both, promising faster cleaning with added conditioning properties.
Compared to the multi-step process often required with separate cleaners and lubricants, the “one-step” promise of MC 7 was incredibly appealing. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was both excited to see if it lived up to the hype, and a bit skeptical if a single product could genuinely replace my established cleaning routine.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test subject was my AR-15 after a day at an outdoor shooting range. The rifle had seen approximately 300 rounds of .223 ammunition, leaving a noticeable carbon build-up in the bore and bolt carrier group. I applied Shooters Choice MC 7 liberally to a bore brush and patches, running them through the barrel according to the instructions.
Even after just a few passes, the patches were coming out significantly dirtier compared to when I use other cleaners. The solvent seemed to cut through the carbon fouling with surprising ease. I also tested it on a heavily leaded .45 ACP barrel.
The difference was immediately apparent, with the MC 7 quickly lifting lead deposits I’d struggled with previously. I found that MC 7 performed better than traditional solvents in cold conditions, retaining its cleaning power even in near-freezing temperatures during a late-season deer hunt. No unusual smells or adverse skin effects were observed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use on a variety of firearms, the Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner has proven its worth. The solvent hasn’t lost its potency, and the 16 oz bottle is still going strong. There are no signs of degradation in the product itself.
The MC 7 has consistently outperformed other cleaners in terms of speed and ease of use. Its conditioning properties also appear to be beneficial, as the bores of my firearms seem to be staying cleaner for longer periods between shooting sessions. Maintenance is simple: apply, scrub, and wipe clean.
There are no special procedures required. I would say MC 7 outperforms most dedicated bore cleaners I have used in the past and simplifies the cleaning process.
Breaking Down the Features of Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle
Specifications
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner is a concentrated solvent designed for cleaning and conditioning firearms. It comes in a 16 oz bottle, providing ample supply for regular maintenance. It claims to be safe, quick, and easy to use, with a non-abrasive formula harmless to bore surfaces.
It is formulated to remove all types of fouling, including carbon, lead, and copper. This is significant because it eliminates the need for multiple specialized solvents. The non-abrasive nature of the formula is crucial for preserving the integrity of the bore rifling. This is essential for maintaining accuracy over the long term.
Performance & Functionality
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner excels at its primary function: removing fouling from firearm bores. It dissolves carbon deposits quickly and efficiently. It also breaks down lead and copper fouling with relative ease.
While heavily encrusted areas may require some additional scrubbing, the overall cleaning process is significantly faster compared to traditional solvents. The conditioning properties of the MC 7 are an added bonus. It leaves a protective layer that helps to prevent future fouling build-up.
I would like to see a higher concentration of the conditioner component in future formulations to make it even more effective.
Design & Ergonomics
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner comes in a standard plastic bottle with a screw-on cap. The bottle is easy to grip and pour from. The simple design is functional and practical, prioritizing ease of use.
There is no learning curve. Apply the solvent, scrub the bore, and wipe clean.
Durability & Maintenance
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner itself is a durable product. It doesn’t degrade or lose its effectiveness over time. The shelf life is considerable, assuming the bottle is properly sealed when not in use.
The firearms cleaned with MC 7 show improved resistance to fouling build-up, reducing the frequency of required maintenance. Cleaning the solvent itself is straightforward; simply wipe away any excess with a clean cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it’s designed to be compatible with standard bore brushes, patches, and cleaning rods. It works well with a variety of materials, including nylon, bronze, and cotton.
Because it’s a cleaner, there are no customization options in the traditional sense. But it allows the shooter to optimize their firearm’s performance through thorough and effective cleaning. This ultimately provides customization in the form of enhanced accuracy and reliability.
Pros and Cons of Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle
Pros
- Effectively removes carbon, lead, and copper fouling.
- One-step cleaning and conditioning process saves time.
- Non-abrasive formula protects bore rifling.
- Leaves a protective layer that helps to prevent future fouling build-up.
- Versatile; suitable for use on a wide range of firearms.
Cons
- Strong solvent smell (ventilation recommended).
- May require extra scrubbing on heavily fouled bores.
Who Should Buy Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle?
Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner is perfect for:
- Hunters who need a quick and reliable way to clean their rifles in the field.
- Competitive shooters who demand optimal accuracy and performance from their firearms.
- Gun owners who appreciate a streamlined and efficient cleaning process.
Those who are extremely sensitive to strong chemical odors may want to consider alternatives. Shooters who only fire a few rounds occasionally may not fully appreciate the benefits of the MC 7.
Must-have accessories to use with MC 7 include: high-quality bore brushes, cleaning patches, and a sturdy cleaning rod.
Conclusion on Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle
The Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner 16 oz Bottle is a highly effective and convenient solution for firearm maintenance. Its one-step cleaning and conditioning process saves time and effort. It also protects the bore from damage.
The price of $23.49 is justified given its performance and the time it saves. The value proposition is strong, particularly for those who shoot frequently. I would personally recommend the Shooters Choice MC 7 Bore Cleaner and Conditioner to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to clean their firearms.
Give it a try, and experience the difference a truly effective bore cleaner can make!