Gun cleaning kits come in many forms. There are universal kits, caliber-specific kits and some unique products for cleaning guns. When looking for the best gun cleaning kit, you need to consider your needs as well as the quality and value of the product.
Here’s a review of six of the best gun cleaning kits. Each review indicates the pros and cons, interesting features, caliber or gauge designations and price of the kit. Check out these reviews so you can make a good choice when you purchase your next one.
The Otis Elite
The Otis Elite has brushes and patches for any gun smaller than 10 ga. It also has some basic gunsmithing tools for fine cleaning and removing obstructions in the barrel or chamber. A smaller field kit is included for basic cleaning at the range or camp. If you like the extras, this could be the best gun cleaning kit for you.
Features
- Rifles, shotguns and pistols.
- Complete – Brushes and patch loop, patches, solvent and extras.
- .17 cal through 12 ga.
- Zippered nylon case.
- Size when zipped: 9-1/2″W x 15″L x 3″H.
- Limited Warranty.
Pros
- Many extras for detailed cleaning.
- Organized case.
Cons
- High price.
- May be overkill if you own only one or two guns.
Price: $129.99.
Field & Stream Sportsman Kit
The Field & Stream Sportsman is a basic kit for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money but need a decent universal kit for all their guns. You have to buy some solvent separately. On the plus side, this kit includes mops for quick cleaning of heavy powder residue.
Features
- Rifles, pistols and shotguns.
- Contains rod, brushes, mops, patch loop and patches.
- .22 through 12 ga.
- Zippered case.
Pros
- Inexpensive.
- Small size is great to take along.
Cons
- Does not include solvent
- Rod is somewhat flimsy.
- Rod does not have a t-handle.
Price: $29.99.
Real Avid Gun Boss Pro Kit
The Real Avid Gun Boss Pro Kit may be the best gun cleaning kit for you mainly because of its value. All components, including the case and especially the rod, are very durable. The price is almost unbelievable for such a nice kit.
Features
- .22 through .45 cal rifles and pistols.
- 12 ga and 20 ga shotguns.
- Brushes and patch loop, patches, jags.
- Mops for 12 ga and 20 ga.
Pros
- Sturdy rod with t-handle.
- Durable plastic case hangs on peg board for storage and sits on a kickstand during use.
- Includes jags.
- Fantastic value.
Cons
- Not for .17 or above .45 cal.
- Not for 10, 16, 28 or .410 shotguns.
- Does not include solvent.
Price: $29.99.
RealTree Shotgun Cleaning Kit
If you only need a kit for shotguns and would like one that you can carry in your pocket, the RealTree Shotgun Cleaning Kit is the best gun cleaning kit for you. It will get the job done. One great thing about this one is the 16 ga attachments, which are usually not included in universal kits.
Features
- 12 through .410.
- Includes rod, brushes, mops, loops and patches for all gauges.
- Comes in a field case.
Pros
- Includes 16 ga components.
- Includes mops.
- One of the most compact kits available.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with solvent.
- Not for rifles or pistols.
- No t-handle.
Price: $28.79.
Hoppe’s Universal Gun Cleaning Kit
No review of the best gun cleaning kits would be complete without a Hoppe’s product. Check your needs against the features because the Universal Gun Cleaning Kit is only for the most popular calibers and gauges. If you don’t have a storage case for your cleaning supplies, you will have to buy one.
Features
- .22 through .30 cal rifles.
- .22 and 9mm/.38/.357 pistols.
- 12 and 20 gauge shotguns.
- Complete – includes rod, brushes, mops, loop and patches, jags and solvent.
Pros
- Made by a firearms legend.
- Includes solvent.
- Comes with mops and jags.
- Great price.
Cons
- For a narrow selection of calibers and gauges.
- No storage or carrying case.
Price: $9.97.
Ohenny Bore Snake
Here is an interesting product. Ohenny Bore Snake works like a plumbing snake. You saturate the cleaning brush with solvent and run it through the barrel. Follow with the cloth snake. This is great for cleaning in the field, but you should have a better one for thorough cleaning at home or camp.
Features
- Available for a variety of calibers and gauges.
- Each kit comes with one nylon scrubbing snake and one cloth wiping snake.
Pros
- Washable and reusable.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Does not clean as well as traditional kits.
- Does not come with a field or storage case.
Price: $11.99.
To Sum It Up
So there you have it. There are so many available, but choosing the best gun cleaning kit for you doesn’t have to be complicated. Find the features you need, and make sure none of the cons are deal breakers. Also, check to see if the kit you want includes solvent. If it doesn’t, there are many quality solvents available at a good price.