I also agree with Big Ed and Hornetguy Treat your 22's ( Loveingly )and you will not wear the barrel out ever. I was once told that you can wear out the Barrel on some Hi Power rifles within 2000 rounds especially the hotter ( faster ) ones. I was also told about the alum rod thing years ago but I cant seem to remember the reason you should not use the alum rod, is it " chamber abuse and corrosion ??