Broken Cleaning Jag/ Range Rod

[Horizontal Hunter]

Today the brass threaded portion of my cleaning jag broke while I was spit patching at the range leaving the cleaning jag and cloth patch at the bottom of the barrel. Fortunately I often read the treads on here, even though I don't post much, and knew enough to pull the nipple and trickle some powder into the bolster and blow it out. Thank you all very much. :bow: I was then able to complete my range session with the ramrod that is on the gun.

I am now looking for a recommendation for a new range rod and was wondering what you folks would recommend? I will also get a new cleaning jag with STEEL threads this time.

Thanks,

Bob

 

[Zonie]

Visit the Track of the Wolf website. There are several nice range rods to choose from. http://www.trackofthewolf.com/Categories/PartList.aspx?catID=6&subID=48&styleID=136

Or try Dixie Gunworks http://www.dixiegunworks.com/product_info.php?products_id=2064

While your at it don't forget to order a new jag.

Look for one that has a STEEL screw in it.
Those brass threads aren't up to the task.

That's why many of us recommend if you can only find a brass threaded jag, cut off the brass thread. Drill and tap a hole in the jag for the correct size of threads for your cleaning/ram rod and then install a cut off length of a steel screw to provide the male threads.

Modifying a brass jag like this only requires you to buy some steel screws, a flat file and a drill and tap, all of which will cost somewhat less than $15.

 

[SDSmlf]

Saw post within the last couple of weeks where this was discussed ”“ with a search you may find it. Bottom line, recommended that you not use jags made from one piece of solid brass. Look for ones with threaded portion made from steel or make one yourself (I use an Allen head set screw staked and Loctited in place). Just too easy to break the solid ones and then you have a problem. Never thought of this much until this and the earlier mentioned post ”“ I was told years ago not to use the one piece kind and never gave it a second thought as the advice made sense.

As far a range rod, I prefer stainless, but aluminum or brass work well. I like mine set up so the jag OD keeps the muzzle protector from sliding off the end of the rod. No recommendations on a source as mine are homemade.

 

[Tumblernotch]

Visit the Track of the Wolf website. There are several nice range rods to choose from. http://www.trackofthewolf.com/Categories/PartList.aspx?catID=6&subID=48&styleID=136

Or try Dixie Gunworks http://www.dixiegunworks.com/product_info.php?products_id=2064

While your at it don't forget to order a new jag.

Look for one that has a STEEL screw in it.
Those brass threads aren't up to the task.

That's why many of us recommend if you can only find a brass threaded jag, cut off the brass thread. Drill and tap a hole in the jag for the correct size of threads for your cleaning/ram rod and then install a cut off length of a steel screw to provide the male threads.

Modifying a brass jag like this only requires you to buy some steel screws, a flat file and a drill and tap, all of which will cost somewhat less than $15.

That's the way I make mine. I'd also recommend putting a dab of red Locktite on the threads before screwing into the jag. This will keep the threaded shank from backing out if the jag gets stuck on the rod due to rust or whatever. I would also recommend going with 10/32 threads. 8/32 works fine, but a little bigger is better.

 

[ohio ramrod]

I make my cleaning/loading jags from brass radiused for the caliber and drill and tap them , then insert a 10-32 allen set screw and hold it in with locktite. For rods I like a piece of solid 3/8 brass taped both ends with a "T " handle and bore protector.

 

[CaptainKirk]

Good suggestions! Hadn't thought of some of them.

 

[Horizontal Hunter]

How do you guys like the creedmore handle on the range rods at TOW? My last range rod had a "T" handle.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Bob

 

[cowpoke1955]

This is the one I've been using for the last 30 years with no problems: http://www.dixiegunworks.com/product_info.php?cPath=22_99_320&products_id=1302 .

 

[William O.]

You might want to look at the "virtually indestructable ramrod" which has a steel core inside a hickory or ask wood rod, whatever length you need . http://www.periodramrod.com/