Let’s Dive into Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore
Black powder firearms, while steeped in history and offering a unique shooting experience, are notorious for their messy aftermath. The fouling left behind is corrosive, demanding immediate and thorough cleaning to prevent rust and maintain accuracy. I’ve spent over a decade wrestling with this reality, trying countless cleaning solutions, each with varying degrees of success and hassle. That’s why I was particularly intrigued by the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore, a product promising to simplify this essential maintenance task.
I was looking for a cleaning solution that could effectively remove fouling from my black powder rifles and pistols, without requiring excessive scrubbing or multiple cleaning steps. The promise of rust protection was also a major draw, given the humid climate where I often shoot.
The bottle itself is unassuming, a standard 8 fl. oz. container. Upon opening it, the scent is relatively mild compared to some of the harsh chemical odors I’ve encountered with other bore solvents. My initial thought was, “Let’s see if this lives up to the ‘EZ’ in its name.” Comparing it to some competitors like Hoppe’s No. 9 or Ballistol, the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore immediately stood out with its claim to both clean and protect in one step.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The promise of simplified cleaning, especially with the added rust protection, felt like a potential game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore was at my local shooting range after a day spent practicing with my .50 caliber Traditions Pennsylvania rifle. The weather was dry, but the heat was intense, leading to a significant amount of powder residue in the bore. After shooting about 20 rounds, I knew it was time for cleaning.
The application was straightforward. I soaked a cleaning patch with the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore and ran it down the barrel, followed by a dry patch. To my surprise, the fouling came out much easier than with previous solvents I’d used. It seemed like the solvent loosened the residue effectively.
The ease of use was a major plus. I didn’t need to scrub excessively, and the bore was noticeably cleaner with just a few passes. No issues arose, it seemed to work precisely as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, across multiple shooting sessions in varying conditions, the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore continues to impress. It has consistently delivered on its promise of easy cleaning and rust protection. One notable experience was after a hunting trip where my rifle was exposed to light rain.
Despite the damp conditions, I noticed no signs of rust the next day after cleaning it with Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore. The bore also remains clean after each use.
Maintaining my firearms has become significantly easier. The product has also held up well, with no noticeable degradation of its cleaning power over time. Compared to my previous experiences with other bore solvents, the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore has exceeded my expectations in terms of both ease of use and effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore
Specifications
The Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore is a bore solvent specifically designed for black powder firearms and their substitutes. It’s packaged in an 8 fl. oz (240 ml) bottle for convenient storage and application. The formula is designed to clean corrosive black powder, Blackhorn 209, Triple Seven, Pyrodex, and other black powder substitutes.
The inclusion of a rust preventative is a key feature, helping to protect the bore from corrosion caused by black powder residue. This is important because corrosion can lead to decreased accuracy and damage to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore performs exceptionally well in its primary function: cleaning black powder fouling. It efficiently loosens and removes residue, making the cleaning process much faster and easier. The added rust protection provides an extra layer of security.
The primary strength is its dual-action formula, which cleans and protects in one step. A potential weakness might be its specific formulation for black powder substitutes. It meets, and even exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The bottle design is functional and easy to use. The solvent has a mild scent compared to some other bore cleaners. The weight is negligible, as it is a liquid in a plastic bottle.
The design is user-friendly with a simple pour-and-apply method. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The product itself, being a chemical solvent, doesn’t degrade significantly over time if stored properly. The shelf life is long, and the bottle is robust enough to withstand regular use in a range bag. Proper storage is recommended for optimal longevity.
Maintenance involves simply ensuring the bottle is sealed tightly when not in use. Easy to maintain; just store in a cool, dry place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore doesn’t require any specific accessories for use, although cleaning patches and a bore brush are essential for any firearm cleaning. It’s compatible with standard cleaning tools used for black powder firearms.
There are no customization options for a cleaning solvent. However, it works seamlessly with all standard black powder cleaning equipment.
Pros and Cons of Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore
Pros
- The advanced formula cleans a wide range of black powder and substitutes, making it versatile for different firearms.
- The built-in rust protection saves time and effort, eliminating the need for a separate protectant.
- The ease of use significantly reduces cleaning time, which is crucial after a long day at the range or in the field.
- Its mild scent is less offensive compared to other strong chemical-based cleaners.
- It’s cost-effective, offering a dual-action solution at a reasonable price of $9.99.
Cons
- It is specifically formulated for black powder and substitutes, limiting its use on other types of firearms.
- Some users may prefer a solvent with a stronger cleaning action for heavily fouled bores, although this product is typically sufficient.
Who Should Buy Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore?
The Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore is perfect for black powder enthusiasts, muzzleloader hunters, and recreational shooters using black powder substitutes. Anyone seeking a convenient and effective cleaning solution that provides rust protection will benefit greatly from this product.
Those who primarily shoot modern firearms or prefer a multi-purpose solvent for all their firearms might want to consider other options. It’s also important to note that this product is only a cleaning solvent and not a lubricant.
Must-have accessories include high-quality cleaning patches, a bore brush appropriate for the firearm’s caliber, and a cleaning rod.
Conclusion on Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore
The Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore has proven to be a valuable addition to my cleaning kit. Its dual-action formula simplifies the cleaning process and offers reliable rust protection. At $9.99, the price is justified by its effectiveness and convenience.
I would absolutely recommend the Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore to anyone who shoots black powder firearms or their substitutes. It’s a time-saving, effective, and affordable solution for maintaining these historical weapons. Pick up a bottle of Traditions EZ Clean2 Bore today and experience the ease of truly clean black powder shooting!