Ramrod????????

[sd550]

I've been looking and considering a new Huntsman or Sidekick, but the ramrod design is holding me back. How do they hold up ? Any info would be appreciated.

sd550

[Busta]

I've been looking and considering a new Huntsman or Sidekick, but the ramrod design is holding me back. How do they hold up ? Any info would be appreciated.

sd550

sd550,

The ramrod is functional if used as directed, ie; push the bullet down with ramrod collapsed, then remove and extend to finish seating the bullet. I would not let the ramrod hold you back from such a great little muzzleloader. I purchased a Knight range rod for all my range work and cleaning, works great.

If you are shooting PowerBelts or slip fit conicals such as No Excuses the supplied rod will work just fine. If you want to shoot something like Hornady SST's or T/C Shockwaves you will want a stiffer rod with a special tip for the pointed bullets. If you should happen to break or damage your supplied rod, you can get a replacement or spare from the H&R/NEF online store for $7.75.

http://www.hr1871.com/store/index.htm

[Japlmg]

I have been shooting my 45 caliber H&R Huntsman since the early 1970's. The ram rod had never given me any problems.
Other than a new nipple every couple years, and a new o-ring every ten years or so, that is a zero maintainance gun!
Gregg

[maddmaxx]

Had a .58 at one time. Problem was the ramrod was .45 size going down a .58 hole. Of course I broke it. After spending good money on a replacement, I spent enough more for a dowelrod, and that's what I used. It stuck out 6" past the muzzle, but never got broke. All in all, my fun with that gun wasn't.

[Sourdough]

I only use the original ramrod in the field while hunting.  I always start the bullet with a short starter, then use the ramrod in short mode to push the bullet half way down the barrel.  Then extend the ramrod and finish seating the bullet.  I use a synthetic rod I ordered from Cabela's for range and bench shooting.  I also use the same synthetic ramrod for my Encore at the range, it's easier to use, with a nice Tee handle added.