Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case Review

Grit & Gear: Testing the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case

For years, I’ve relied on a robust arsenal of cleaning tools to keep my firearms in peak condition, from the dusty workshop to the frigid field. My quest for the ultimate bore cleaner is a continuous one, always seeking efficiency and portability without sacrificing efficacy. It was during a particularly frustrating range day, fumbling with bulky cleaning rods and separate brushes, that I realized the need for something more streamlined for my .17 caliber handguns. This led me to the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case, a compact cleaning system promising simplicity and organization.

My previous cleaning kit involved a multi-piece rod, a handful of caliber-specific brushes and mops, and a small pouch to keep them all somewhat contained. While effective, it was often a cumbersome process, especially when space was at a premium or time was short. The idea of an all-in-one solution, a tool that could deploy quickly and stow neatly, was incredibly appealing. I’d seen similar concepts before, but often they lacked durability or the necessary cleaning power.

First impressions of the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case were of surprising sturdiness packed into a remarkably small footprint. The polycarbonate handle, encased in a flexible overmolding, felt robust enough to withstand the inevitable drops and bumps of a gear bag. The integrated cable and brush/mop design hinted at a clever engineering approach, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the “flip, feed, clip, and pull” promise.

I had briefly considered a few other compact bore brushes, but they generally offered less integrated storage or relied on less durable materials. The Real Avid offering seemed to strike a better balance between innovative design and practical application. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism, a feeling that this could be the elegant solution I’d been searching for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case to the Test

My testing grounds for this cleaning tool were varied, encompassing my home workshop, a local indoor shooting range, and even a few trips out into the elements where a quick clean was necessary. I subjected the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case to its intended purpose: maintaining the cleanliness of my .17 caliber handguns, specifically those with tight tolerances where debris can quickly impact performance.

First Use Experience

The initial deployment of the Bore Boss was exactly as advertised: flip, feed, clip, and pull. The handle flips open to reveal the cleaning cable, which is then easily threaded through the bore from the breech end. Attaching the cable to the handle is a secure, satisfying click. The entire process, from unboxing to a clean barrel, took under two minutes for my first attempt.

I tested it under typical range conditions, immediately after firing several magazines. The system performed admirably, easily removing powder residue and fouling. I also introduced a light dusting of workshop grit and a few drops of water to simulate less-than-ideal field conditions, and the Bore Boss handled it without complaint.

Its ease of use was remarkable; there was virtually no learning curve. The intuitive design meant I could operate it without referring to any instructions, which is always a good sign for a tool intended for quick deployment. The only minor surprise was how compact it truly was once stowed, easily fitting into a coat pocket.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case has become a staple in my cleaning kit. It has held up exceptionally well to repeated use, with no noticeable degradation in the quality of the phosphor bronze brush or the braided mop. The cable remains flexible, and the attachment mechanism is as secure as day one.

Durability-wise, I’ve accidentally dropped it on concrete a couple of times, and it emerged unscathed, a testament to the durable polycarbonate handle and its flexible overmolding. There are no signs of cracking, fraying, or stiffness in the cable, and the cleaning elements continue to perform effectively. It easily outperforms some of the cheaper, generic bore snakes I’ve used in the past, which often had flimsy cables that would snag or brushes that would shed bristles.

Maintenance and care are incredibly simple. A quick rinse under running water after use, followed by allowing it to air dry before re-stowing, is all that’s required. The integrated design means there are no small parts to lose, and the flex case handle keeps everything neatly organized and protected. It’s a stark contrast to the multi-piece rods that invariably end up with one section missing or rolling under the workbench.

Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case

The Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case is designed with a singular focus on providing an efficient and portable bore cleaning solution. Its construction and components are geared towards delivering performance without unnecessary complexity.

Specifications

The core of this cleaning system is its single piece Dual Action Cable. This cable is approximately 12″ long for handguns, providing sufficient reach for most common pistol bores. Attached to one end is a robust phosphor bronze brush, essential for dislodging stubborn fouling. The other end features an integrated braided mop, constructed from absorbent cotton, which is approximately 8-1/2″ long, ideal for handguns and smaller rifles.

The entire cleaning assembly wraps neatly around and stores within the unique Flex-Case Handle. This handle is made from a durable polycarbonate core surrounded by a flexible overmolding, offering both rigidity and a comfortable grip. The case itself is designed to be compact and pocketable, making it an excellent choice for portability. The product specifications list the materials as Brass/Cotton/Nylon, referring to the brush, mop, and cable components.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the tool’s effectiveness and convenience. The 12″ cable length ensures it can navigate the entire length of a .17 caliber handgun barrel without issue. The phosphor bronze brush is aggressive enough for carbon and lead fouling but not so harsh as to damage the bore. The braided mop effectively removes loosened debris and cleaning solvents, leaving the bore spotless. The compact, integrated storage solution is a significant advantage over traditional multi-piece cleaning rods and separate brushes.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, cleaning the bore, the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case performs exceptionally well. The phosphor bronze brush effectively scrubs away fouling, and the subsequent pull of the braided mop efficiently removes the loosened grime and any cleaning solvent used. For .17 caliber handguns, which can be prone to fouling due to their smaller projectiles and higher velocities, this tool makes quick work of maintaining bore cleanliness.

Its main strength lies in its all-in-one design. The ability to have the brush, mop, and handle integrated into a single, storable unit is its biggest selling point. This significantly reduces the time and effort required for a basic cleaning. A potential weakness, though minor for its intended use, is the fixed cable length. While 12″ is suitable for most handguns, it wouldn’t be long enough for extended rifle barrels, but that’s not its intended application.

Overall, the Bore Boss meets and often exceeds expectations for a compact, portable cleaning tool. It performs its core task reliably and efficiently, making it a valuable addition for any .17 caliber handgun owner.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case is its most striking feature. The handle doubles as clean storage, which is a brilliant piece of engineering. The durable polycarbonate handle is surrounded by a flexible overmolding, which provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with slightly oily hands.

The cable connector is cleverly designed to allow for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the cleaning cable. This system ensures a solid connection when pulling the brush and mop through the bore. The entire unit is remarkably ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the hand for maneuvering the cleaning cable.

The caliber is labeled on the Flex CSE, which is a thoughtful detail, preventing confusion if you own multiple Bore Boss units for different calibers. This attention to detail in the design makes it a pleasure to use, transforming a mundane task into a quick, efficient process.

Durability & Maintenance

The Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case appears to be built for sustained use. The phosphor bronze brush is a standard component known for its durability and effectiveness, and the braided cotton mop is also robust and absorbent. The flexible overmolding on the handle protects the internal polycarbonate structure, suggesting it can withstand considerable abuse.

Maintenance is practically non-existent beyond rinsing and drying. The components are designed to be self-contained and resistant to corrosion. There are no obvious failure points that would suggest a short lifespan, assuming it’s used for its intended purpose on .17 caliber handguns. Potential concerns might arise from extreme over-extension of the cable or forcing it through an incorrectly sized bore, but under normal usage, it should prove very long-lasting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” is the integrated cleaning system itself, which includes the phosphor bronze brush and the braided mop. The Flex-Case Handle is the central component that houses and protects these cleaning elements. There are no separate accessories included or readily available for this specific model, as its design is intentionally self-contained.

Customization options are limited to selecting the correct Bore Boss for your specific caliber and firearm type, such as the Handgun .17 variant I tested. Real Avid offers different lengths and configurations for rifles and shotguns, allowing users to outfit their entire firearm collection with their portable cleaning solutions. The quantity listed as “4” in the specifications likely refers to the number of units in a bulk pack or a multi-caliber offering, rather than accessories for a single unit.

Pros and Cons of Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case

Here’s a breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses of this compact cleaning tool.

Who Should Buy Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case?

The Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case is an excellent choice for handgun owners who prioritize portability and speed in their cleaning routine. This includes competitive shooters who might need to perform a quick clean between stages, concealed carry permit holders who want a compact cleaning solution for emergencies, or anyone who simply appreciates an organized and efficient tool. It’s particularly well-suited for those who frequently travel with their firearms or have limited storage space for traditional cleaning kits.

However, this model is not ideal for users who need to clean long rifle barrels; for those, Real Avid offers dedicated rifle Bore Boss systems. It’s also less suited for individuals who prefer a more comprehensive cleaning process involving separate solvent bottles and patch applicators. If you’re looking for a tool to perform a deep, thorough cleaning with multiple solvents and specialized brushes, this compact system might feel limiting.

For those who decide to purchase it, I’d recommend pairing it with a small bottle of solvent and some utility rags for a complete, yet still highly portable, cleaning setup.

Conclusion on Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case

The Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case delivers on its promise of a highly portable and efficiently designed bore cleaning system. For its intended purpose – maintaining the cleanliness of .17 caliber handguns on the go or in tight spaces – it excels. The all-in-one design is a masterclass in practical engineering, transforming a potentially messy chore into a swift, straightforward task.

Considering its accessible price point of $9.33, the value proposition is outstanding. You get a durable, effective, and incredibly convenient tool that significantly streamlines the cleaning process for your .17 caliber handguns. It’s a small investment that pays dividends in terms of time saved and organization gained.

I would absolutely recommend the Real Avid Bore Boss Handgun .17 Flex Handle/case to any owner of .17 caliber handguns who values portability and efficiency. It’s the perfect addition to a range bag, EDC kit, or travel gun case. While it won’t replace a full-sized cleaning bench setup, it’s an indispensable companion for quick clean-ups and maintaining your firearm’s readiness wherever you are.