The Latest from Cactus Tactical: Things for Your Revolver Gear Bag

Revolver - Rods

This precision tool is used for testing revolvers for proper cylinder-to-bore alignment. It is very helpful when troubleshooting timing, accuracy, or barrel-to-cylinder gap spitting problems. This tool is essential when cylinder related parts are replaced to ensure cylinder centering. This inexpensive tool is made of brass so it cannot damage your bore. It has features not found on other range rods costing three times as much. No extra handle to buy or assembly before use. Excellent instructions are included with procedures for double and single action revolvers plus trouble shooting guides for both.

Features

Shaft: All Range Rods have 11 ½” of usable shaft. They will work on any revolver from the shortest snub nose up to 10 ½” barrel length. The shaft diameter is made for “match grade” use and is a consistent diameter (+ or - .0005”) from end to end.

Feeler Tip: The unique tapered feeler tip correlates with a reference post on the handle so you know exactly where cylinder alignment is off from bore line. Other rods will indicate if the cylinder is off, but they can’t tell you if is left, right, top, or bottom. The tapered tip is protected so it will remain accurate.

Barrel Depth Collar: Each Range Rod is equipped with a collar that slides on the shaft. The collar is set when the Range Rod is fully inserted into the bore and cylinder. This gives the user a reference point on how deep the tool has been inserted.

Construction: Range Rods are made with solid brass tubing that will prevent bore or cylinder face damage and will have a long useful life.

Extras: All Range Rods are shipped with a Calibrated Headspace Case. The 38 Special works with 357 Mag, the 44 Special works with 44 Mag, and the 45 Colt works with 454 Cas. The cases will make the Range Rod even more precise. The Calibrated Headspace Case doubles as a reference to accurately measure revolver headspace. No more guessing by using assorted brass cases.

Calibers available: 22 LR (.222” bore)
22 WRM (.224” bore)
38 Special / 357 Magnum / 9mm
44 Special / 44 Magnum / 44-40 / 445 SM
45 Colt / 45 ACP / 45 AR / 454 Cas / 45-70

A step-by-step instruction manual for both Single Action and Double Action revolvers is included. The manual also has trouble shooting guides and instructions for the Calibrated Headspace Case.

These articles are presented as a public service by Cactus Tactical. If you are unsure of any procedures outlined in these articles, you are advised to contact your local gunsmith for service. All firearms must be verified to be unloaded before servicing. This advice is given freely and to be used at your own risk.
This article is one in a series written by Gary Bunker, Cactus Tactical's Master Gunsmith and rifle tuner.