POLL: Huntsman/Sidekick Owners

[Busta]

Just curious as to what the majority of Huntsman/Sidekick owners are using in the field? I know most probably use a range rod of some type at the range and for cleaning, but only answer range rod in the poll if you use one while hunting. In other words, after you have fired your rifle in the field, what ramrod will you be using to load your next shot. I figured a poll would be the best way to find out. This is probably a bad time to run this poll, because not as many frequent the site this time of year. Thank you for your participation!

[ncsurveyor]

I use a full length rod that I carry in an old canvas scabbard, either on my belt or on a strap so its behind my back, like an arrow quiver. 

I use the one that came with the gun unextended, as a starter/seater.

It may seem awkward, but I've never had to rush a follow up shot as of yet. (Despite how rusty I let the barrel get  )

[Keith Lewis]

Since the Hubbard rod is twice as strong as the stock rod, has the correct theads for accessories, is two inches longer when extended, and has the end relieved for pointed bullets I cannot figure out why anyone would try to use the stock rod. I know it looks a little more modern and maybe that is the reason but for function it is so much better I could not use the stock rod anymore.

[snapcrackpop]

I use the standard rod because that's what I have.
I expect to purchase the Hubbards someday, just haven't yet.

I use Knights range rod for practice.

[PHATINJUN]

I use the standard rod in the field and since I have no need for accessories and don't know what I would do with the extra 2 inches if I had it don't use sabot or pointed bullets and when used as designed is plenty strong I have no need for anything else in the field. Kurt

[coop2564]

I use the standard rod but got a new tip that works with the pointed bullets. I like the standard rod never have understood the negitivity with it other than the tip and threads. But there are jags out there that fit it.

[Reese]

I use the SST friendly Hubbard ramrod.

[bubba]

I have the hubbard rod on my sidekick. I use it in the field but like most I have a range rod I use at the range.  My nephews huntsman uses the standard rod as MR Hubbard has not sent me the new rod O ordered.  I guess he has been having family problems. 

[JustShootin]

In the woods for the first shot I use a 250 gr TC Shockwave and load it with a pointed bullet friendly jag. The follow up in the field is a 250 gr REAL loaded with the standard rod.

[Busta]

I have the hubbard rod on my sidekick. I use it in the field but like most I have a range rod I use at the range.  My nephews huntsman uses the standard rod as MR Hubbard has not sent me the new rod O ordered.  I guess he has been having family problems. 

This is what I was kind of getting at, Ben's website has been down for several months, not as easy to get ahold of. I doubt that these rods will be available much longer. Nick from MU was looking to make some jags that would allow us to load pointed bullets. I really think the guys with standard rods would like them. I have some custom jags that allow you to load pointed bullets, run patches down AND BACK UP your bore, and lock the ramrod in the collapsed position for storing on the rifle. These really come in handy when in the field, if I didn't have them I would have the hubbard rod too, but these work very well. I only use the standard rod while hunting, all the loading and cleaning is done with a range rod.

[nrb]

On my Huntsman, I use the Hubbard rod in the field; but use a range rod at the range. I am interested in the custom jags.

best,       nrb

[GLHolmes]

I use the standard ramrod--I haven't been particularly pleased with it though.  The pieces unscrew from each other too often.  Also, it somehow got a tiny ding in it which locked it up in the closed position.  After some light hammer tapping and holding it in a tool vise, pulling with pliers, my dad and I finally got it loose.  Someday I'll probably order a Hubbard's rod.

[WestportRiver]

I use the standard rod but got a new tip that works with the pointed bullets. I like the standard rod never have understood the negitivity with it other than the tip and threads. But there are jags out there that fit it.

I am new to this.   Where do you get the new tip for pointed bullets for the standard rod (source, part name or number, etc.)?  Are there other good accessories for the standard rod that I should get?

[snapcrackpop]

any sporting goods store that sells ML stuff should have it.  Just unscrew the regular tip and screw in the new one.  Just be sure to get the right threads.
In a pinch you might be able to use a drill on your regular tip.

[Busta]

I use the standard rod but got a new tip that works with the pointed bullets. I like the standard rod never have understood the negitivity with it other than the tip and threads. But there are jags out there that fit it.

I am new to this.   Where do you get the new tip for pointed bullets for the standard rod (source, part name or number, etc.)?  Are there other good accessories for the standard rod that I should get?

The jags are custom, you won't find them anywhere. They could have been a reality, but some things changed and I think it is unlikely now.

snapcrackpop,

If only it were that easy. The original tip is pretty much worthless for anything other than pushing flat nosed bullets down the barrel. The threads are 8-32, most other ML jags are 10-32. You can buy a 8-32 male, 10-32 female adapter, but it will not lock the rod in the closed position like the custom jags above.

[carbineman]

I only have the factory supplied ramrod. The Dead Center bullet come with a plastic bullet protector tip guide in the blister pack that I use to start and fully seat the bullet and then upon pointing the rifle downward it falls out and I keep and reuse it.

[Slackdaddy]

Seeing as my Sidekick has a 20" barrel, I use a 19" range rod with a rubber t-handle that holds 6 primers.
The 19" rod fits in my day pack that is allways hanging from my stand.

Slack

[Doug B.]

I use the Hubbard rod exclusively.

[snakeskinner]

Can someone post a pic if the factory rod and a Hubbard rod? I bought a used Huntsman and don't know if I have a factory rod or a Hubbard.

[cwlongshot]

Hubbard while hunting, but ALWAYS a T/C range rod on the range!!

 Once you see/try either one you wouldn't think of using the stock rod ever again!!

CW

[quickdtoo]

Can someone post a pic if the factory rod and a Hubbard rod? I bought a used Huntsman and don't know if I have a factory rod or a Hubbard.

I think this is a Hubbard.

Tim

[DennyRoark]

I took a 10-32 .45 Barnes pointed bullet jag and chased the threads with an 8-32 die, then turned the die over and chased to bottom.  Works very well for hunting,  we use a range rod for practice.

[scotstr]

Hubbard rod with spin jag in the field, aluminum range rod at the shooting bench.

[john keyes]

not the most efficient but I carry two of the big plastic CVA ram rods that are indestructible. one has a cleaning jag, the other a palm saver and loading jag

yes its extra stuff to carry but thats how I roll 

I probably have never used the telescopic POS   

[Paints-n-cows]

I was using my stock rod but then last season, it broken while extended right where the small diameter rod enters the main body.  Now, I just carry a range rod with me.  It is not very handy but at least it won't break on me.