The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg Made a Bold First Impression
Muzzleloading, for me, is more than just a hobby; it’s a connection to history, a dance with tradition, and a test of patience. That’s why I’m always looking for anything to simplify the cleaning process. That’s where the Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg caught my eye, promising a faster and more effective way to maintain my black powder rifles.
I’ve spent years wrestling with stubborn fouling and battling rust after every shooting session. Standard cleaning patches and solvents felt like an endless cycle of scrubbing and worrying. The Traditions patches, with their promise of bore seasoning and rust protection, seemed like a potential game-changer.
Upon receiving the package, the first thing I noticed was the resealable bag. It’s a small detail, but essential for keeping the patches properly conditioned and preventing them from drying out. The patches themselves felt soft and pre-lubricated, with a slightly oily texture.
Compared to using plain cotton patches with separate cleaning solvent and oil, the Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches felt like a step into the modern age. I also considered bore butter alternatives, but I preferred the convenience and targeted cleaning action of a patch. My initial excitement was definitely high; if these lived up to their claims, they’d save me a significant amount of time and effort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local range after a morning of shooting my .50 caliber Traditions Deerhunter rifle. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit chilly. I used a full day of shooting to create a good test for the patches.
Using the Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches was incredibly straightforward. I simply wrapped one around my cleaning jag and ran it through the bore. The patch moved smoothly, and it was evident that it was grabbing a significant amount of fouling. I appreciated that they’re pre-lubricated, taking out the need to saturate standard cotton patches.
After just a few passes, the bore was noticeably cleaner. Even better, the patches seemed to leave a protective coating behind. After the initial cleaning I stored the rifle and checked it the next day. I was looking for signs of surface rust and was glad to see none.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use and cleaning with the Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches, I can confidently say they’ve become a staple in my muzzleloading kit. They consistently remove fouling effectively and leave the bore feeling slick and protected. I noticed my follow up cleaning sessions became faster each time.
I haven’t observed any signs of rust or corrosion, even after storing my rifle for extended periods in my gun safe. The patches do seem to dry out slightly over time, but the resealable bag helps to mitigate this. I find myself using fewer patches per cleaning session compared to using standard patches and solvents.
These patches have significantly outperformed my previous cleaning routine. The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches offer a superior combination of cleaning power and bore protection, saving me time and giving me peace of mind. The value I find in the time and effort saved compared to using standard patches makes the patches a good choice.
Breaking Down the Features of Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg
Specifications
- The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg are designed for use in muzzleloaders with bore sizes ranging from .45 to .58 caliber. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of popular muzzleloading rifles.
- Each patch measures 2.5 inches in diameter, providing ample surface area for effective cleaning. The size is optimized for a snug fit within the bore, ensuring maximum contact with fouling.
- The patches are pre-treated with an advanced formula that helps reduce fouling and protect against rust. This formula also seasons the bore, potentially improving accuracy and easing loading.
- Each package contains 50 patches, offering a sufficient supply for multiple cleaning sessions. The resealable packaging helps maintain the patches’ condition over time.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the cleaning process and the longevity of your muzzleloader. The right size and pre-treatment ensure effective cleaning and protection. This in turn helps maintain your rifle’s accuracy and value.
Performance & Functionality
The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg excels at its primary job: cleaning and protecting muzzleloader bores. The patches effectively remove black powder residue, minimizing the risk of corrosion and maintaining accuracy.
The patches’ pre-treatment is a major strength. It seems to not only clean but also season the bore, making subsequent loading easier. The only improvement I can suggest is perhaps increasing the amount of pre-treatment. A slightly more saturated patch may pull even more fouling.
Overall, the patches meet and exceed my expectations for a muzzleloader cleaning product. They significantly simplify and improve the cleaning process.
Design & Ergonomics
The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches are simple in design, but effective. The materials used feel durable and absorbent, and the patches are easy to handle.
There’s essentially no learning curve involved. Simply wrap a patch around your cleaning jag and run it through the bore.
Durability & Maintenance
The patches themselves are disposable, but their impact on the durability of your rifle is significant. By effectively cleaning and protecting the bore, they help to prevent rust and corrosion. This will extend the life of your muzzleloader.
Maintaining the patches is also easy. Keep the package sealed when not in use to prevent them from drying out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches don’t require any specific accessories. They are compatible with standard cleaning jags and rods.
You could potentially pair them with a bore light for a more thorough inspection of the bore after cleaning. Some shooters may prefer to use a separate bore solvent in conjunction with the patches for especially stubborn fouling.
Pros and Cons of Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg
Pros
- Effectively cleans and protects muzzleloader bores from rust and corrosion.
- Pre-treated with an advanced formula that seasons the bore and eases loading.
- Simple and easy to use, with no learning curve.
- Resealable packaging helps maintain the patches’ condition over time.
- Versatile design suitable for .45 to .58 caliber muzzleloaders.
Cons
- Patches can dry out over time if not properly stored.
- May not be sufficient for removing extremely stubborn fouling without additional solvent.
Who Should Buy Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg?
These patches are perfect for muzzleloader enthusiasts of all levels. Especially for those who value convenience and effective bore maintenance. They are also a great choice for hunters who want to quickly clean their rifles in the field.
Anyone who prefers a more traditional cleaning method using separate patches and solvents might want to skip this product. Also, those dealing with extremely heavy fouling may require a more aggressive cleaning solution.
A bore light is a must-have accessory to inspect the bore after cleaning. It can ensure all fouling has been removed and the bore is properly protected.
Conclusion on Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg
The Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches .45-.58 2.5″ patches 50 Pkg are a valuable addition to any muzzleloader’s cleaning kit. They offer a convenient and effective way to clean and protect your rifle’s bore. The pre-treated formula saves time and effort.
The value proposition is excellent, especially considering the time saved and the peace of mind gained from knowing your rifle is properly protected. I would definitely recommend these patches to any muzzleloader shooter.
If you’re looking for a faster, easier, and more effective way to maintain your black powder rifle, give the Traditions EZ Clean 2 Cleaning Patches a try. You won’t be disappointed!