Why are Otis cleaning kits better?

[mr_dove]

I've heard alot of people say that the Otis cleaning kits are the best. What is it that makes the Otis kits better than other kits on the market?

I currently use a Kleenbore kit and it seems to work well enough. Is it worth it to replace a Kleenbore with an Otis?

 

[LiquidTension]

The Otis kits have several advantages. First, they are very compact and can be carried in a pocket. Second, they allow you to clean from breach to muzzle on most firearms - good for revolvers. Patches can be used multiple times due to how they're folded.

I've noticed the brushes don't fit as tightly as my other ones, especially the .45 cal.

 

[KaceCoyote]

I noticed the brush thing aswell, and my theory is that this is to allow cleaning SUPER dirty combat guns without bending up the brush too bad.

The kits are compact, tough, work and not too expensive. What more to ask?

 

[STAGE 2]

I don't really think otis kits are better. Maybe as a last resort kit in your backpack kind of thing, but for a primary kit I think they are really lacking.

 

[Will Learn]

I use my Otis cleaning kit for the range as it is compact, for home I use J. Dewey nylon coated rods. You really can't go wrong if your cleaning breach-to-bore but the Dewey rods seem to be a little quicker to work with. I also use the Otis kit for cleaning SKS's and AK's as the reciever is blocking the barrel. Good luck, sounds like your on the right track.

 

[chopinbloc]

i agree that they're nicely compact and the m16/ar15 kit comes with pretty much everything you NEED. i prefer to use a boresnake when it's possible, though. the bottom line is that the stuff you need to get a firearm inspection ready fills up a large ammo can and the stuff you need to keep it running on a daily basis fits in the buttstock.

i also had a problem with the patches getting stuck in the bore the first few times i used an otis kit.

 

[WayneConrad]

What threads for a brush used with the Otis kit?

Which brush threads can be used with the Otis kit? 5x40, or 8x32?

 

[chuckles]

wayne conrad wrote:

Which brush threads can be used with the Otis kit? 5x40, or 8x32?

I think the standard Otis threads are 8x32. They are whatever most rod attachments are size-wise. You can use any standard brand brushes or patches with the Otis kits. I don't confine my brand of brushes to just the Otis. Just slot the patch in the appropriate location. There are threaded adapters in some kits to allow larger threads for shotguns etc. I quit using any rigid rods a while back and couldn't be happier. I probably have 20 or so rods that I have abandoned in favor of the Otis kits. I do always use a muzzle guide, even with Otis, just to protect the muzzle. You can find good deals on Otis kits by shopping on EBay. Also all the various components of the Otis system have a lifetime guarantee so if a part breaks send it back for replacement. All of their components can be purchased separately also. I sound like Mr. Otis himself! They should put me on the payroll as a Otis W***e. As usual JMHO and of course, YMMV.

 

[Falconeer]

I have the Otis tactical kit and am very pleased with it. I've used up the patches that come with it and now use cotton fabric leftovers from my quilting wife. Cut em to 2.5" squares and they work great. When I clean my 10FP, I cut a small hole in the center of the patch, stick the base of the brass brush through it, then attach the brush to the flexible rod. Spray CLP on the pad then pull it through. Does a great job cleaning out the guck.

 

[Telperion]

The biggest advantage of Otis kits is their ability to clean from breach-to-muzzle, and their portability. They are indispensible for field cleaning, and a suitable replacement for rods for bench cleaning.

 

[WayneConrad]

Thanks for the answers, and to the original poster for bringing up the question. I've been using a copper wire with a loop in the end for pulling patches, but it's no good for cleaning chambers and can't pull a brush. I've just ordered an Otis kit from Midway. This should be interesting.