I'd prefer to use a metal rod[steel or brass] in that,they're also historically correct,as well as being stronger than wood.I-may-[for field use],be able to thin down a pre-existing[capped/threaded]5/16"super rod" to .250,so it will fit the existing ramrod channel.The barrel is pinned on,so I can't see how much clearance might be available[if I wanted to use a thicker rod].