Lyman Pick and Brush Set Review

What to Expect from the Lyman Pick and Brush Set

The Lyman Pick and Brush Set is a utilitarian collection designed to tackle those stubborn bits of fouling that standard cleaning tools can miss. Manufactured by Lyman, a name synonymous with firearm maintenance and reloading, this set aims to offer a simple yet effective solution for firearm owners who demand a thorough clean. It includes a collection of essential scraping tools and a versatile brush, all packaged in a straightforward manner.

My search for this specific tool was driven by a common frustration: the persistent carbon and lead buildup in certain areas of my firearms, particularly in tight action areas and bore lands that seemed to resist my usual cleaning patches and bore brushes. I needed something with a bit more finesse, something that could get into the intricate geometry of a firearm’s moving parts without causing damage. While I already possessed a comprehensive cleaning kit, the specialized needs of certain firearms, especially those prone to fouling in hard-to-reach places, highlighted a gap.

Upon receiving the set, my initial impression was one of practicality over polish. The tools have a functional, no-nonsense appearance, and the materials feel robust enough for their intended purpose. There are no superfluous design elements; it’s purely about functionality. I had briefly considered a generic set of dental picks, but the specialized design and the inclusion of a brush from a reputable firearm accessory maker like Lyman made this kit a more appealing choice, promising better suitability for firearm cleaning. My first reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that a potentially vexing cleaning problem had a straightforward solution within reach.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pick and Brush Set to the Test

My testing grounds for this set have been varied, spanning from my home workshop bench where firearms undergo routine maintenance to the occasional field stripping session after a particularly demanding range day. I’ve used it on a variety of firearms, including semi-automatic pistols, bolt-action rifles, and even some older revolvers, each presenting its own unique cleaning challenges. The ability to get into the rails of a pistol slide, the small crevices around a bolt carrier group, or the stubborn carbon rings in a rifle chamber were all critical aspects I focused on.

The set performed admirably under typical conditions. The picks, when used with appropriate cleaning solvents, were effective at dislodging hardened carbon and lead deposits without scratching the underlying metal. The accompanying nylon brush proved surprisingly useful for scrubbing away loosened debris or applying solvent to tight areas where a larger brush wouldn’t fit. I did notice that after prolonged use in a dusty workshop environment, the picks required a quick wipe-down to remove any fine grit, but this is a minor point for any tool used in such settings. Ease of use was intuitive; the design of picks and brushes is inherently straightforward, requiring no special training or complex assembly.

Over several months of regular use, the Lyman Pick and Brush Set has held up remarkably well. The nylon brush remains stiff and effective, showing no signs of fraying or becoming matted. The four picks have retained their shape and edge, even after being used to scrape away some truly stubborn fouling. I haven’t encountered any cracks, stiffness in the brush bristles, or any degradation in their performance. Maintenance is exceptionally simple: a quick rinse with water or a wipe with a solvent-soaked cloth is usually sufficient, followed by a light oiling for the metal components if stored for extended periods. Compared to the generic dental picks I might have used in the past, which often felt too sharp or too brittle, this set offers a superior balance of rigidity and a controlled scraping ability. It doesn’t quite reach the exquisite precision of highly specialized gunsmithing tools, but for the average owner needing to get into those tricky spots, it’s a solid performer.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pick and Brush Set

The Lyman Pick and Brush Set is designed with simplicity and effectiveness in mind, offering a targeted approach to firearm cleaning. The set typically includes four distinct picks of varying shapes and sizes, each designed to address specific types of fouling or access particular areas within a firearm. Paired with these is a robust nylon brush, providing a complementary tool for scrubbing and debris removal.

These specifications translate directly into practical application. The varied shapes of the picks allow for versatility in tackling different kinds of buildup, whether it’s a sharp point for scraping away carbon from tight edges or a hooked end for pulling out debris from recessed areas. The nylon brush is firm enough to scrub without damaging most firearm finishes, making it ideal for cleaning around pins, springs, and in slide rails where traditional brushes might be too large or too abrasive. For instance, the universal caliber rating means these tools aren’t limited to one type of firearm, extending their utility across an entire gun collection.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lyman
• Color: Black
• Included Accessories: One Nylon Brush, Four Picks
• Weight: 0.3 lb
• Package Type: Bag
• Caliber: Universal
• Gun Model: Universal

These specifications highlight the practical nature of the Lyman Pick and Brush Set. The universal caliber and universal gun model designations mean it’s a versatile tool applicable to a wide range of firearms, from small .22 caliber pistols to larger rifle actions. The inclusion of both four picks and a nylon brush ensures a multi-faceted cleaning approach. At a mere 0.3 lb, it adds negligible weight to a cleaning kit, making it easily portable. The bag packaging is functional for storage, keeping the components together and protected.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lyman Pick and Brush Set is to reach those often-overlooked areas where fouling accumulates. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The picks are sharp enough to dislodge carbon, lead, and powder residue without excessively scratching the metal surfaces, provided one uses reasonable care. The accompanying nylon brush is stiff and effectively scrubs away loosened debris or applies solvent to tight spots.

Its greatest strength lies in its ability to access areas that standard cleaning rods, patches, and bore brushes cannot reach. For example, it excels at cleaning the feed ramp of a semi-automatic pistol, the area around a bolt catch, or the intricate workings of a revolver’s cylinder mechanism. A minor weakness might be that the picks, while effective, require a delicate touch; aggressive scraping can potentially mar softer metals or finishes if not handled with care. However, for its intended purpose of detailed cleaning, it more than meets expectations, especially considering its modest price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Pick and Brush Set is purely functional. The picks are shaped ergonomically for a comfortable grip, allowing for precise control during intricate cleaning tasks. Their polished metal finish looks professional and feels smooth in the hand. The nylon brush features a comfortable handle, providing sufficient leverage for scrubbing without causing hand fatigue.

The materials appear to be of good quality; the metal of the picks is strong and resistant to bending, while the nylon bristles of the brush are durable and have maintained their stiffness. There is no real learning curve associated with using these tools, making them accessible to anyone needing to perform detailed firearm cleaning. The markings are minimal, as expected for such a straightforward set, focusing entirely on utility.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Lyman Pick and Brush Set is built to last for years of regular use. The picks are solid metal and unlikely to bend or break under normal cleaning pressures. The nylon brush is also robust and designed for repeated use, showing minimal wear even after extensive cleaning sessions.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving simple cleaning after each use. A quick rinse with water or a wipe-down with a cleaning solvent and a dry cloth is usually sufficient. If stored for extended periods, a light application of oil to the metal picks can prevent any potential corrosion, though this is generally not an issue with quality steel. The only potential concern might be the loss of individual picks, as they are not permanently attached to the brush; using the provided bag for storage mitigates this risk.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Pick and Brush Set comes as a complete, albeit simple, package. The included nylon brush and four picks are the core components. There are no additional accessories provided with this specific set, nor are there significant customization options for the picks themselves, as their shapes are fixed and designed for specific tasks.

However, this set is designed to be used in conjunction with other firearm cleaning supplies. It serves as an excellent complement to a standard cleaning kit, adding a layer of detailed cleaning capability. You would typically use this set alongside cleaning solvents, gun oils, and cleaning patches or cloths. Its compatibility with these standard cleaning agents is excellent, and it fills a niche that most generic cleaning kits do not address.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Pick and Brush Set

Who Should Buy Lyman Pick and Brush Set?

This Lyman Pick and Brush Set is an ideal purchase for any firearm owner who performs their own cleaning and maintenance. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who are meticulous about cleaning and want to ensure every nook and cranny of their firearms is free from fouling. Those who own firearms with complex internal mechanisms, such as semi-automatic pistols with tight tolerances, revolvers with intricate cylinder assemblies, or rifles with detailed bolt carrier groups, will find this set invaluable.

Conversely, someone who only performs very basic cleaning with patches and a bore brush, or those who send their firearms out for professional cleaning, might not find the specialized nature of this set essential. It’s not designed for large-scale bluing or metal polishing. For users who might need to clean delicate instruments or electronic components, a different type of pick set with softer tips would be more appropriate. As for complementary items, having a good quality firearm solvent, a small spray bottle for applying it, and some lint-free cloths would enhance the effectiveness of this set.

Conclusion on Lyman Pick and Brush Set

The Lyman Pick and Brush Set is a simple, effective, and remarkably affordable addition to any firearm maintenance arsenal. It successfully addresses the common problem of fouling in hard-to-reach areas, offering a level of detailed cleaning that basic kits often miss. The inclusion of four distinct picks and a sturdy nylon brush, combined with its universal application across various firearms, makes it a highly practical tool. While it requires a careful hand to avoid damaging finishes, its performance and durability for its price point are outstanding.

The value proposition is undeniable; for a small investment, you gain the capability to perform much more thorough cleaning than would otherwise be possible without specialized, and often more expensive, gunsmithing tools. I would readily recommend this set to any firearm owner looking to elevate their cleaning routine. If you take pride in maintaining your firearms and want to ensure they function optimally and last a lifetime, this straightforward yet highly effective set from Lyman is a purchase you won’t regret.