T Handle History

[ET]

A while back I discovered tighter fitting loads performed better but the complication of just pushing 3/8” ramrod became uncomfortable and difficult. So, I sought a tool that would make loading tighter loads easier.
For my first endeavor I used an old 3/8” shotgun cleaning rod and secured a sleeve to it. The depth for housing the ramrod is ½-5/8”. The sleeve is secured with a set screw that does not go below the sleeves surface. At first, I was planning on pinning the sleeve but didn’t care for having protrusion on 2 sides of the sleeve. Pinning will work if you don’t have a drill and tap for the set screw.



After more thought about this approach with a plastic T handle I felt a better handle could be employed such as aluminum tubing. Now this alteration is more work intensive but not complicated.





The T handle is pocket size and can be carried anywhere, especially when hunting.

Now if you want to go a step further a T handle can be modified to be used as a witness mark by adding an adjustable sleeve. Set the sleeve a 1/16” above the muzzle so it will allow powder compression.



If you get bored over the winter months this is a fun and useful project.

[jims]

good info

[ET]

I too hope someone finds this information useful. Even though the info is associated to my design for a T handle does mean that’s the only design option. Any design that disperses the force needed for loading with a ramrod makes that chore easier. Tighter loads can easily be achieved. One other benefit, which I have not relied on yet, is should I begin to develop arthritis in my hands the T handle should help with this condition. I plan on shooting my SML for a long time.

[ET]

One last suggestion if you want to make a T handle but don't want to deal with tapping threads then make the handle all out of aluminum or stainless. Then just weld it. Preferably TIG welding for aluminum whereas stainless can be welded either with TIG or using small diameter stainless welding rod. With welding there may be some cleaning up with sanding required.