I tried the search.... maybe I don't know what to put in, so I'll ask. My wooden ramrod cracked (not broken) trying to push an old sabot down -- my step-father and I traded attempts until it seated. Fired OK. Now I only have 4 old sabots that I will never use.

Anyway, I need a new rod and believe there are choices in fiberglass, synthetic, nylon, carbon, brass, aluminum, and of course, wood. Criteria: not wood (probably break that again); not brittle in cold; doesn't splinter if it does break (have strong fears of shards embedding in my palm); doesn't gouge barrel; fits CVA .50 Mountain rifle (Mountaineer? don't recall at the moment). Besides, it swells so much during the cleaning process, it won't go back in its home.

How about those brass end pieces on my current rod? Do these come with replacements? How would I mark these alternatives for consistently seating my load? Black permanent ink won't show to well on a black rod; scratching/gouging may weaken some hollow types, I believe (incorrectly?)

The local shop has one "universal", but surprise, could not determine what the material is. I will openly consider online point-of-sale. Thank you.

D.