Is there anything wrong with using a large cotton swab to clean your bore?

[Drjones]

Hi all.

A while ago I came across a large cotton/synthetic swab thing that screws onto the end of a cleaning rod that I've been using on my 12 ga and I like it a lot.

I just bought another for my pistols.

Is there anything wrong with using one of those instead of patches?

I use a brush first, with CLP of course, then follow up with the swab and more CLP.

Much easier and more economical than patches.

Anything wrong with that?


Thanks!

 

[Standing Wolf]

I'd be skeptical of using a swab that wasn't clean. As long as it's clean, it's probably doing a better job than a single patch.

 

[Drjones]

I do clean it after every time I use it.

 

[ddc]

Are you referring to a "bore mop" ?

I've got several but the disadvantage compared to patches is it gets dirty quickly and then you have to clean it.

I guess they are a alternative way to apply your CLP (or whatever) but I could easily get by without it.

 

[rayra]

I use them as a post-cleaning oil applicator. No issue with having to clean them, and they are basically 'pre-oiled' from the prior uses. I just punch the bore and I'm done.

 

[Drjones]

I use them as a post-cleaning oil applicator. No issue with having to clean them, and they are basically 'pre-oiled' from the prior uses. I just punch the bore and I'm done.

That sounds like what I'm going to start doing!

Use a patch for the dirt and gunk and then just use the swab for oil.

Thanks!