Cleaning Rod Diameter

[Easton]

This is the first time i will own a high end barrel. I see alot of discution on here about barrel cleaning how to's and how not's. I havn't seen anything yet on what cleaning rod diameter is sutible for each caliber. That being said I have my barrel that is chamberd in 338 LM and i am unsure if i should get a large diameter cleaning rod, i am looking at getting a .312 diameter rod from Montana X-Treme.
Should i worry about the rod deflection which would cause my rod to touch my rifling with such a tight tolerance, or go with a smaller diameter rod. Also i am not able to find a bore guide for my combo of caliber and action where would you guys suggest i look.

 

[BigMahi]

Use a bore guide. It's very hard to scratch treated steel with soft materiala such as plastic or aluminum.

Brownells sells a universal bore guide.

If you're really paranoid use a bore snake. They have a soft brass weight on one end attached to.550 cord which you drop through the barrel. Then tug the rest of the snake through. Spray the rag with hoppes and that will be great for a while.

Once in a while when ur ready for a deep cleaning, that's when I break out the rod and patches.

So no need to worry about Rod deflection.