REVIEW: Otis Elite Pistol – Universal Pistol Cleaning Kit
As someone who prides themselves on maintaining their firearms but sometimes fails in that regard, I was eager to test out the Otis Elite Pistol – Universal Pistol Cleaning Kit. Pitched for its comprehensive approach to firearm maintenance, this kit promised to be the only tool kit I’d need for my everyday carry Glock 48.
After an afternoon at the range shooting some inexpensive ball ammo, my Glock 48 was in dire need of a thorough cleaning. The Otis kit, compact yet robust, was exactly what I needed for post-range maintenance. The kit’s case, with its durable zippered construction, made it easy to grab and go, ensuring I could clean my pistol anywhere from my workshop to a campsite. Here’s how it went:
Setup & Initial Inspection:
Right off the bat, the Otis kit impressed with its organization. Everything had its place, from the brushes to the cleaning patches. The soft case not only protected the contents but also comes with a nice cleaning mat that’s plenty big enough.
The kit includes Otis’s signature 100% cotton 2″ and 3″ patches, which fit perfectly into the provided patch loop component. This design ensures that no patch is wasted, and every bit of solvent gets right where it’s needed.
Barrel Cleaning:
The Otis kit comes with a bronze bore brush and a Memory-Flex cable system, which, unlike traditional rods, won’t damage the barrel’s rifling if you were to get a bit to aggressive. The flexibility of the cable allowed me to navigate through the barrel with ease, even with the slide on, thanks to the caliber-specific components included for pistols up to .45 caliber.
Detailed Cleaning:
The kit’s inclusion of picks and scrapers was particularly useful for getting into the tight spots around the slide, trigger, and other mechanisms. The precision tools helped me dislodge carbon buildup that typical brushes might miss.
The Otis FP-10 Lubricant works very well. It’s designed to not only lubricate but also protect against rust and corrosion, which is crucial for any EDC pistol.
Post-Cleaning Inspection:
After reassembling my pistol, the difference was night and day. The pistol felt smooth, the slide action was crisp, and the whole firearm had that satisfying ‘new gun’ feel again.
Why It’s Elite:
- Comprehensive: From memory flex cables to precision tools, the Otis Elite kit left nothing out. Everything needed for a thorough clean was right at my fingertips.
- Portability: Despite its breadth of tools, the kit is surprisingly portable. Its size makes it easy to keep in a range bag or even a glove compartment for quick clean-ups.
- Durability: The quality of the materials, particularly the brushes and cables, suggests this kit will last through countless cleanings.
Final Thoughts:
The Otis Elite Pistol – Universal Pistol Cleaning Kit has firmly become my go-to for maintaining my pistols, especially on the go. My favorite aspect of the entire kit is the 8-in-1 Pistol Tool. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about preserving the integrity and performance of your firearm with tools designed by those who understand what shooters need. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or new to the hobby, this kit ensures you’re equipped to keep your firearms in top condition. Highly recommended for anyone serious about their pistol maintenance regimen.