Thread size for M 1816 Worm

[Yancey von Yeast, 8073]

Does anyone know what thread size and original 1816 worm uses? I have a repro rod and need to thread it for an original worm. I am hoping there is a standard size...

Thanks!

[Jim_Burgess_2078V]

I could be wrong but the ramrod threads for M1816 muskets and later rifle-muskets may be all the same and, unfortunately, it is not a common size die, something like 12 x 26 if memory serves correctly. I hope someone here knows a source for the proper die since I would like to do the same thing to a ramrod in my possession.
Jim Burgess, 15th CVI

[Ken Hansgen, 11094]

I'd be interested in knowing the final answer to this too. I have an 1861 rammer I would like to re-thread. Jim, have you verified whether your memory served you right?

[Jim Leinicke 7368V]

I think 12X26 is correct. I have always used a 3/16x24 or 12x24 die on rammers and the worms always thread on okay after a try or two. There are differences between an 1816 rammer diameter and an 1842 rammer diameter, apparently, as the 1816 worm is too large for my 1842 rods. I guess I should be curious enough to see what the difference actually is!

[John Bly]

I think you will be OK to use a #12-24 die on your ramrod. The original stuff seems to be 26 threads or possibly 1 mm pitch which is 25.4 threads/inch. The thread is short enough that a minor pitch difference won't matter. I've made quite a few repro ramrods that the sutlers sell and I use a #12-24 thread on the end. No complaints have been forwarded to me.
You may find a die in a good hardware store or a mega store like Lowes or Home Depot. You may need to go online to McMaster Carr or MSC or some similar place. Good luck

[Jack C., 69th NY]

If you have trouble finding what you are looking for, try Travers Tool in College Point, NY. Their paper catalog is as big as the old Sears catalog or the Manhattan phone book. They have a very complete website.
http://www.travers.com/