What size cleaning patches for a 12 gauge?

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theboyk

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Hello.

Just picked up a cleaning kit for my 12 gauge and it came with several different size cleaning patches. Just wondering how I determine which size patch to use?

Also—the patches are square. Never used square patches and wondering how I use them, or is it the same as the circle patches?

Thanks,
Kristin.
 
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Same as round. Use the largest ones. I use 3" but the big questions is will they fit in barrel with the cleaning jag. Be careful if it gets stuck in the first few inches don't fight it. Remove it and find a thinner patch.
 
tbrwlf said:
Same as round. Use the largest ones. I use 3" but the big questions is will they fit in barrel with the cleaning jag. Be careful if it gets stuck in the first few inches don't fight it. Remove it and find a thinner patch.
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Thanks!
 
adamg said:
Another option is to buy a barrel snake.
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Yea, I also picked up a Hoppe's Viper, which is dead simple. Figure I'll reserve that for field cleaning (or when I'm feeling lazy <G>), but use the patches and rod when I do full cleanings back home.
 
I have a couple of Parker Hale jags for shotguns in 12 & 20 that are split down their centre. They just happen to exactly take a 1/2 sheet of paper towel folded in half, inserted down the slit then wrapped around them. The paper towel size that fits is the rolls that have a
1/2 sheet tear offs ... Scott brand I believe. Haven't used cotton patches in years. Brush first ( I use a very sturdy 20mm surplus cannon brush, then paper towel on the jag with Ed's Red ) No problems with leading, plastic fouling or anything else. A Payne Galway style chamber brush handles the rest.
 
Right on, thanks!
So, I take it kleenex/paper towel doesn't leave any fibres or anything like that behind?
 
I use a bore snake and run it through two or three times at the range, once I am done shooting. That seems to work well enough for me and I agree it's a good idea to have both for different cleaning applications.
 
theboyk said:
Right on, thanks!
So, I take it kleenex/paper towel doesn't leave any fibres or anything like that behind?
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Have you had a look down the barrel of your new 12 gauge?(from the breach end of course)
You could just use the bronze brush and be good to go, or run that balled up wad of tissue paper down it after and you are good to go.
Rifled barrel does make a difference, but smooth bore, not to worry unless of course one leaves the balled up tissue in the barrel.
Rob
 
IMHO the best "patches" out there are a roll of $2 blue shop towels, cut it to size & viola! Been doing it for years and they work great and don't leave crap in your barrel like a normal paper towel will.
 
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