I like and use Bore Snakes, but only for cursory cleaning, i.e., between group testing hand loads or at camp after a rain ( although I usually put electrician tape over the muzzle) I do agree, that it takes a good rod/brush/the right solvent/patches to properly clean a bore. I just don't see the need to clean that thoroughly that often. I use EezOx spray on the bore snake and have never had a rust problem in between major cleanings. As a kid, growing up poor, my 'cleaning kit" was a length of nylon trotline, a lead weight on one end and a loop on the other for a piece of flannel soaked with "3 In One" oil. Later on in life, it was "WD 40". Of course, a box of 30-30 ammo lasted a couple years, ha.