Did the ramrod stick you about 1/4 inch towards finger of dead center??? You're not the first to break a ramrod. That is why the first thing I do is get take the wood ramrods and set them off to the side for display only. I then get a Super Rod and use that in the rifle. At least I know the end will not come off and it will not break and stick me.. that really hurts. I bet dumping that 50/50 on it made you dance a little.

At least it sounds like you had a good time with the trade rifle. That's strange that the REALs are too tight. I shoot them and maxiball all the time out of mine. These rifles are a lot more accurate them most people know. Mine is a real good shooter. Did you put the buckhorn rear sight on or leave the standard sight on?