A bore snake is simply a barrel cleaning rope – a tool that allows for the quick and effective removal of fouling, powder residue, and other contaminants from a firearm's barrel. It is an alternative to traditional cleaning rods, valued for its ease of use and speed of operation. Ideal for quick cleaning in field conditions or at the shooting range.
What exactly is a bore snake?
A bore snake is a strong rope with interwoven bronze or nylon brushes and absorbent sections made of cotton or other material. Use is very simple: you pull the rope through the barrel, and it cleans it in one go. At the front of the rope is usually a brass tip, which makes it easier to insert it into the barrel.
The history of the bore snake dates back to the 1990s, when the first versions of this tool appeared. Since then, the bore snake has gained immense popularity among sport shooters, hunters, and law enforcement agencies around the world. The reason? It is lightweight, compact, and very effective.
Advantages of using a bore snake
Why reach for a bore snake instead of a traditional cleaning rod? Here are a few reasons:
- Speed: Cleaning the barrel with a bore snake takes literally a moment. You pull it through once and you're done.
- Convenience: It is lightweight and easy to pack into a shooting bag. You don't need any additional tools.
- Effectiveness: A well-chosen bore snake effectively removes most contaminants.
- Safety: Using a bore snake is less risky for the barrel than using a metal cleaning rod, which, if used improperly, can scratch the barrel.
How to properly use a bore snake? Step by step
Using a bore snake is simple, but it's worth remembering a few rules to do it correctly and safely:
- Check the weapon: Make sure the weapon is unloaded and secured. This is the basis of safety.
- Insert the bore snake: Pull the brass tip of the bore snake through the barrel, from the chamber towards the muzzle. Sometimes you have to fiddle with it a bit to get it through, but don't use force.
- Pull the rope: Grab the end of the rope and pull it slowly and evenly through the entire length of the barrel. Don't jerk.
- Assess the effect: Check if the barrel is clean. If not, repeat the process.
- Bore snake maintenance: After use, clean the bore snake from dirt and fouling. You can wash it in warm soapy water and dry it.
Which bore snake to choose? Types and calibers
Bore snakes come in various versions, adapted to different firearm calibers. It is important to choose the right size so that cleaning is effective and safe. A bore snake that is too small will not clean the barrel thoroughly, and one that is too large may jam.
Here are a few popular calibers and their corresponding bore snakes:
- .22 LR: Ideal for cleaning rimfire rifles and pistols.
- 9 mm: For 9 mm caliber pistols and rifles.
- .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO: The standard choice for AR-15 rifles.
- .308 Win / 7.62 NATO: For rifles in .308 caliber and derivatives.
- 12 GA: For 12 gauge shotguns.
When choosing a bore snake, it is worth paying attention to the material from which the brushes and cleaning sections are made. Bronze brushes are more aggressive and better at dealing with stubborn fouling, but may be too harsh for some barrels. Nylon brushes are gentler and safer, but may be less effective for heavy soiling. The absorbent material should be of high quality and absorb solvents and oils well.
Bore snake vs. traditional cleaning rod: which to choose?
The bore snake and traditional cleaning rod are two different tools for cleaning the barrel, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on individual preferences and needs. A cleaning rod is a more precise tool, allowing for the thorough removal of contaminants from every nook and cranny of the barrel. However, it requires more time and skill. A bore snake is faster and more convenient to use, but may not be as thorough as a cleaning rod.
Many shooters use both tools: a bore snake for quick cleaning at the range, and a cleaning rod for thorough cleaning at home.
Is a bore snake enough for comprehensive barrel cleaning?
A bore snake is a great tool for quick and preliminary cleaning, but it will not fully replace a traditional cleaning kit. After using a bore snake, it is still worth wiping the barrel with a cleaning rod with a suitable brush and soaked cloth to remove any remaining dirt and apply a preserving layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bore snake be used to clean the barrel of an AR-15 rifle?
Yes, the bore snake is commonly used to clean barrels in AR-15 rifles. It is important to choose a bore snake of the appropriate caliber, i.e. .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO.
How often should I clean the barrel with a bore snake?
The frequency of cleaning depends on the intensity of firearm use. After each shooting session, it is worth pulling a bore snake through the barrel to remove fouling and powder residue. More thorough cleaning with a cleaning rod is recommended every few hundred shots.
Can a bore snake scratch the barrel?
When used correctly, a bore snake should not scratch the barrel. It is important to regularly clean the bore snake from contaminants that could act as an abrasive. Avoid jerking and pulling the bore snake by force.
Can I use a bore snake to clean the barrel dry?
It is recommended to use a bore snake with the addition of solvent or gun cleaning oil. Using it dry may be less effective and increases the risk of scratching the barrel.
How to care for a bore snake so that it lasts as long as possible?
After each use, clean the bore snake from dirt and fouling. It can be washed in warm soapy water and dried thoroughly. Store in a dry place.
Where to buy a bore snake?
A bore snake can be purchased in gun stores and shooting accessories stores, both brick-and-mortar and online.
Is a bore snake suitable for cleaning a shotgun barrel?
Yes, there are bore snakes designed for cleaning shotgun barrels, in various calibers (e.g. 12 GA, 20 GA). You should choose the appropriate size.
