Mine was made from an antler tip, hollowed out. Then he put some bristles from a commercial paint brush, glued into the tip with epoxy. When it dried he but the bristles off even,and about 1 /2 inch long, polished the tip, drilled a hole through it to attach a chain, and it was done. The only time it is used is on the range if the firing line is closed when I have the pan loaded, and I decide not to fire the shot. Then i use it to whisk the priming powder out of the pan. Its about the most unused item I have in my kit, right behind that patch puller jag. I know as soon as I leave that jag at home, I will need it, so I carry it to appease the Gods!