Review: Tactical Performance Gun Cleaning Kits
Dr. John Woods 12.11.17
Once in a while you run across a cool piece of gear without really trying. On a rummaging trip this week with my youngest daughter to Academy, I just happened on to a neat little compact and portable gun cleaning kit. In fact, I happened on to two of them.
The Tactical Performance trade name is exclusive to Academy Sports stores, so look for this gear at their retail outlets or website. These small, lightweight gun cleaning kits are sized for the 357/9mm/38 caliber, 45 Cal, and 223/5.56 caliber.
These kits come complete inside a compact plastic case with everything needed tool-wise. The case latches on the side with a positive snap-over latch. The top then hinges open and remains attached. That alone is a cool feature so the case does not become separated or the top lost in camp, out on the trail, or at the shooting bench.
Inside the pistol cleaning kit are the following tools and components:
- A multi-function handle
- Six piece drive set; 2 flat blades, 2 Phillips bits, 1 star bit, 1 hex bit
- Two brass rods
- One brass cleaning bore brush
- One barrel cleaning mop
- One slot tip
- One brass jag
- 25 cleaning patches
When the two rod sections are screwed together and the slot tip added to the handle, the assembled cleaning rod is 11.5 inches in length. The handle has a positive-grip rubberized texture for a non-slip hold. The rod pieces assemble tightly so there is no wobble.
On the opposite end of the handle is a socket insert for use with the six pieces of the driver set. This setup would be handy for field repairs, parts replacement, or just to tighten up most common screws and fasteners found on guns.
The brass jag could be useful for dislodging stuck patches or even a bullet in the barrel under dire circumstances. The patches and mop can do a good job of providing a quick bore-cleaning job in the field. Just pack a small bottle of solvent and gun oil in a zip-lock bag with some extra patches and a wipe down cloth and you’re ready to go.
