After shooting last weekend, I've been cleaning rifles after work. I like barrels really clean, and I like cleaning. I usually run some solvent on a patched jag right after I get home, then get more serious when I have time. I was suprised by the new 44 mag barrel. First, as big as the bore is, I can get a very good look inside the barrel. I didn't see any burrs, chatter marks, or flaws in the bore as it came to me.
After 45 shots with no break in, there was a good bit of powder fowling. Kroil, a bronze brush, and some patches got it out quickly. I then filled the bore with Outers foam copper remover and let it sit overnight. When I patched it out the next day, no blue. No trace of copper.
I know this stuff works. The .243 barrel took 3 overnights before I got a clean patch. My late Dad's badly pitted Savage .270 is still giving me bright blue patches after 3 overnights (after only 15 shots!)
So, is this normal with a pistol round (its my first)? I was shooting Federal American Eagle 240g jacketed hollow points. Is the bore so oversized that the jackets aren't touching? ( Just kidding, I'm sure their touching and it grouped quite well.) Or is this just a rare, excellent factory barrel?
