I just bought my first firearm (a Ruger American bolt action .22) and was given a M-Pro7 cleaning kit as a gift. (M-Pro7 Tactical Universal Kit 070-1505 - MPro7)
While doing some online "research" about gun cleaning, I noted there is a conversation about whether metal cleaning rods should be used because they can apparently scratch the inside of the barrel. The kit I was given came with a collapsible steel rod, and I'm wondering if it's okay to use or if I should replace it with something else.
UPDATE: I was able to return the set I was given and instead purchased some different tools as suggested by my cousin (he used to work for Bore Tech). I now have one of their one-piece coated rods (http://www.boretech.com/products/v-stix-22-65mm). They're also making me a "custom" bore guide since they don't carry one for the Ruger American.
While doing some online "research" about gun cleaning, I noted there is a conversation about whether metal cleaning rods should be used because they can apparently scratch the inside of the barrel. The kit I was given came with a collapsible steel rod, and I'm wondering if it's okay to use or if I should replace it with something else.
UPDATE: I was able to return the set I was given and instead purchased some different tools as suggested by my cousin (he used to work for Bore Tech). I now have one of their one-piece coated rods (http://www.boretech.com/products/v-stix-22-65mm). They're also making me a "custom" bore guide since they don't carry one for the Ruger American.