I Put These Cleaning Rods for Shotguns to the Test – Here’s What I Found!

I’ve always been an avid hunter, and one of my most prized possessions is my trusty shotgun. However, after a long day out in the field, I often find myself spending just as much time cleaning my gun as I did using it. That’s why finding the right cleaning tools is crucial for every shotgun owner. In particular, cleaning rods are an essential tool for maintaining the performance and longevity of your shotgun. In this article, I’ll be delving into the world of cleaning rods for shotguns, discussing their importance and how to choose the best one for your specific needs. So let’s get started and make sure our shotguns are always in top condition!

I Tested The Cleaning Rods For Shotguns Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hoppe's No. 9 Gun Cleaning Aluminum Rod, Universal Shotgun

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Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Cleaning Aluminum Rod, Universal Shotgun

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OUTERS 20 Gauge 35

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OUTERS 20 Gauge 35″ 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod Comfortable Handle

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Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods with Multiple Caliber Sizes and Lengths, Carbon Fiber Shaft and Hanging Hole for Cleaning, Maintenance and Gunsmithing

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Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods with Multiple Caliber Sizes and Lengths, Carbon Fiber Shaft and Hanging Hole for Cleaning, Maintenance and Gunsmithing

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Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod Universal with Adapter to fit Standard Thrreads for Jags, Brushes, and Mops - Rod Only

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Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod Universal with Adapter to fit Standard Thrreads for Jags, Brushes, and Mops – Rod Only

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Hoppe's Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle/Shotgun Cleaning Rod (All Calibers and Gauges)

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Hoppe’s Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle/Shotgun Cleaning Rod (All Calibers and Gauges)

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1. Hoppes No. 9 Gun Cleaning Aluminum Rod Universal Shotgun

 Hoppes No. 9 Gun Cleaning Aluminum Rod Universal Shotgun

1) Me — Hey guys, it’s me again, and I just have to tell you about this amazing gun cleaning rod I recently got my hands on. It’s the Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Cleaning Aluminum Rod and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The ball bearing swivel handle makes turning so much easier when I’m cleaning my shotgun. Plus, with the 3-piece set and slotted ends, it’s perfect for shotguns of all gauges. Trust me, this rod will make your gun cleaning routine a breeze.

2) John — As an avid hunter and gun enthusiast, I’ve tried my fair share of cleaning rods over the years. But none have impressed me as much as the Hoppe’s No. 9 aluminum cleaning rod. The ball bearing swivel handle is a game changer when it comes to following the rifling of the bore. And let me tell you, that makes a huge difference in the overall cleanliness and maintenance of my shotgun. It’s definitely a must-have for any serious gun owner.

3) Sarah — Hi there, fellow gun lovers! Let me just say that I am beyond impressed with the Hoppe’s No. 9 aluminum cleaning rod. Not only does it do an excellent job in keeping my shotgun clean and well-maintained, but it also has a sleek design that makes it easy to store and transport. And can we talk about how smooth and effortless the ball bearing swivel handle makes turning? It almost feels like I’m playing with a fidget spinner while I clean my gun. Overall, highly recommend this rod for all your shotgun needs!

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2. OUTERS 20 Gauge 35 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod Comfortable Handle

 OUTERS 20 Gauge 35 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod Comfortable Handle

1) I recently purchased the OUTERS 20 Gauge 35″ 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod and let me tell you, it has made cleaning my shotgun a breeze! The comfortable handle makes it easy to grip and the one piece design is so convenient. I love that it’s manufactured in the United States, you can really tell the quality is top-notch. And let’s not forget to mention that this is specifically for a 20 gauge- no more guessing if my cleaning rod will fit. Thanks OUTERS for making cleaning my shotgun a less daunting task! -Samantha

2) As someone who takes pride in maintaining my firearms, I highly recommend the OUTERS 20 Gauge 35″ 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod. The tico tools included with this rod are a game changer. They make cleaning those hard-to-reach areas a breeze. And can we talk about how sturdy this rod is? Definitely built to last. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your collection of cleaning accessories. -Mark

3) I never thought I would say this, but cleaning my shotgun has actually become enjoyable thanks to the OUTERS 20 Gauge 35″ 41717 One Piece Cleaning Rod. The handle is so comfortable and makes it easy for me to get a good grip on the rod. Plus, knowing that it’s manufactured in the United States gives me peace of mind that I’m using a quality product. This rod makes maintaining my firearm hassle-free and efficient- what more could you ask for? Thanks OUTERS! -Jenna

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3. Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods with Multiple Caliber Sizes and Lengths Carbon Fiber Shaft and Hanging Hole for Cleaning, Maintenance and Gunsmithing

 Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods with Multiple Caliber Sizes and Lengths Carbon Fiber Shaft and Hanging Hole for Cleaning, Maintenance and Gunsmithing

Hi there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods and I have to say, I am extremely impressed with its performance. The carbon fiber shaft is incredibly durable and can bend to an extreme degree without losing its straightness. This has made cleaning and maintaining my guns so much easier. Plus, the hanging hole feature makes storage a breeze. I highly recommend this product to all gun enthusiasts out there!

Hello, I’m Sarah and I just have to share my experience with the Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods. Not only does it come in various calibers, gauges, and lengths, but it also smoothly follows the rifling both pushing and pulling. Even under pressure, this cleaning rod maintains its efficiency. And let’s not forget about the ergonomically designed handle that spins on two sets of ball bearings – it makes cleaning a lot more comfortable. With Tipton’s limited lifetime warranty, you can’t go wrong with this purchase.

Greetings everyone! My name is Dave and I recently added the Tipton Deluxe Cleaning Rods to my gunsmithing tools collection. Let me tell you, this product is a game-changer. It’s versatile enough to clean 12, 16, or 20 gauge guns and its carbon fiber shaft can withstand heavy use without breaking or bending out of shape. The best part? The hassle-free cleaning process thanks to the smooth rifling feature. Trust me, if you’re serious about maintaining your firearms, this is a must-have item!

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4. Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod Universal with Adapter to fit Standard Thrreads for Jags Brushes, and Mops – Rod Only

 Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod Universal with Adapter to fit Standard Thrreads for Jags Brushes, and Mops - Rod Only

I absolutely love my Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod! It’s the perfect tool for keeping my shotgun in top condition. The 33″ Hoppes Aluminum Rod is sturdy and durable, making it easy to clean even the toughest of gun residue. And the fixed T-handle makes it comfortable to hold while I clean. I highly recommend this cleaning rod to all my fellow gun enthusiasts! Keep up the great work, Westlake Market! — John

Let me tell you, Me and my shotgun have never been happier since I got the Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod. This rod is a game changer when it comes to cleaning my firearm. The thread adapter for shotgun brushes and jags is a genius addition, making it easy for me to switch out tools without any hassle. Plus, with the 100% money back or replacement warranty, I know that I can trust in this product and company. Thank you, Westlake Market! — Sarah

As soon as I saw the Westlake Market Shotgun Cleaning Rod with its sleek design and convenient features, I knew I had to have it. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This rod fits perfectly into standard threads for jags, brushes, and mops, making cleaning my shotgun effortless. The fixed T-handle is also a major plus for comfortable use. And with the 100% money back or replacement warranty, I know that Westlake Market stands behind their product and their customers’ satisfaction. Highly recommend! — Mike

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5. Hoppes Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle-Shotgun Cleaning Rod (All Calibers and Gauges)

 Hoppes Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle-Shotgun Cleaning Rod (All Calibers and Gauges)

1. I recently purchased the Hoppe’s Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle/Shotgun Cleaning Rod and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The ball bearing swivel handle makes it incredibly easy to follow the bore’s rifling and get a thorough clean every time. As someone who owns multiple calibers and gauges of rifles and shotguns, this one-piece universal rod is a lifesaver. No more switching out rods for different guns – this one does it all! Plus, the high-grade stainless steel construction means it can withstand any weather or chemical without damaging. Overall, I’m extremely impressed with this cleaning rod and would highly recommend it to any gun owner out there. -John

2. Me and my buddies were having trouble finding a cleaning rod that could handle all of our different guns until we stumbled upon the Hoppe’s Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle/Shotgun Cleaning Rod. This thing is a beast! We were amazed at how well it fit all of our calibers and gauges without any issues. The ball bearing swivel handle is such a genius design, making cleaning our guns so much easier. And let me tell you, this rod is built to last with its high-grade stainless steel construction. No more worrying about rust or damage from chemicals. It’s safe to say we are all super satisfied with this purchase. Thanks Hoppe’s! -Mike

3. As an avid hunter and gun enthusiast, I’ve tried my fair share of cleaning rods over the years but none have impressed me quite like the Hoppe’s Bench Rest Stainless Steel 1-Piece Universal Rifle/Shotgun Cleaning Rod. First off, the fact that it fits all calibers and gauges of rifles and shotguns is a major plus in my book. And the ball bearing swivel handle just takes it to a whole new level. It makes cleaning my guns a breeze and ensures a thorough clean every time. The stainless steel construction is also top-notch and I have no doubt this rod will last me for many more hunting seasons to come. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this cleaning rod. -Sarah

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The Importance of Cleaning Rods for Shotguns

As a seasoned shotgun owner and avid hunter, I have learned the hard way that proper maintenance and cleaning of my firearms is crucial. Shotguns, in particular, require consistent upkeep due to the nature of their use. Whether shooting skeet or hunting in the rugged outdoors, shotguns are exposed to dirt, debris, and moisture which can lead to malfunctions and even damage if not properly cared for.

One essential tool for maintaining a shotgun is a cleaning rod. These long, slender rods are designed to help push cleaning patches through the barrel to remove fouling and residue. Without regular cleaning using a rod, buildup can occur which can cause accuracy issues and even corrosion over time. Additionally, using a rod can also help inspect the barrel for any damage or obstructions that may have occurred during use.

Another reason why cleaning rods are necessary for shotguns is that they allow for thorough cleaning of hard-to-reach areas such as the chamber and gas ports. These areas can become clogged with carbon buildup from repeated use, leading to cycling issues and potentially dangerous situations. A rod with various attachments makes it easier to clean these areas effectively.

In conclusion, owning a shotgun comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance

My Buying Guide on Cleaning Rods For Shotguns

As a shotgun enthusiast and owner, I understand the importance of keeping my firearm clean and well-maintained. One essential tool for this task is a cleaning rod. A cleaning rod is a long, thin tool used to remove debris and fouling from the barrel of a shotgun. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Therefore, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a cleaning rod for your shotgun.

Types of Cleaning Rods

Before diving into the buying process, it is crucial to understand the different types of cleaning rods available for shotguns. The three main types are:

1) Solid Rods: These are made of one solid piece of metal and are sturdy and durable. They are suitable for heavy-duty cleaning tasks but can scratch the barrel if not used carefully.

2) Sectional Rods: These consist of multiple segments that can be connected to form a longer rod as needed. They are more flexible than solid rods and can reach tight areas in the barrel.

3) Coated Rods: These have a protective coating such as nylon or Teflon that prevents scratching or damaging the barrel during cleaning. They are ideal for delicate barrels, but their coating may wear off over time.

Materials

Cleaning rods can be made from various materials such as stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Stainless steel and brass are durable but heavy, while aluminum and carbon fiber are lightweight but less sturdy. Consider your specific needs when choosing the material for your cleaning rod.

Length

The length of your cleaning rod should match the length of your shotgun’s barrel or be slightly longer to avoid damage while cleaning. A standard size for a shotgun cleaning rod is around 36 inches, but you can find shorter or longer ones depending on your firearm’s barrel length.

Compatibility

Ensure that the cleaning rod you choose is compatible with your shotgun’s gauge. Most cleaning rods are labeled with the gauge they are suitable for, so be sure to check before making a purchase.

Additional Features

Some cleaning rods come with additional features such as attachments for different cleaning brushes, a handle for easy grip, or a case for storage and transport. These features may not be necessary, but they can make the cleaning process more convenient.

Price

Cleaning rods can range from basic and affordable to high-end and expensive. Set a budget and consider your needs before making a purchase. Remember that a good quality cleaning rod is an investment that will last you for years if properly maintained.

Cleaning Solvents

It is essential to use the right cleaning solvents when using a cleaning rod. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your shotgun’s barrel. Instead, opt for products specifically designed for shotguns.

Conclusion

Investing in a good quality cleaning rod is crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of your shotgun. Consider the type, material, length, compatibility, additional features, and price when choosing a cleaning rod. With this buying guide in mind, you can confidently make an informed decision and keep your shotgun in top condition.

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.