This might sound a bit stupid, but I can't help but think I did something wrong on my practice rifle. I use a Pro-Shot rod that I really like but my bore guide wasn't the best, so maybe that was it, but whenever I removed the patch and jag, there was still enough flex in the rod for it to slide along the bottom of the barrel when I pulled it back through. Is there a muzzle device or certain technique I should use?
I stepped up to a much nicer rifle so I'm planning on a Lucas bore guide which should help a bit but I really want to do the maintenance correctly to protect this investment.
As a note: I was using a coated rod. I'm considering a Stainless for the rigidity, but the fact that I was already seeing contact with the bottom of the barrel is making me a bit squeamish about that.