How to use the bayonet/ cleaning rod?

[Texxut]

Do you just wrap the end with a cleaning patch? Or does the end of the bayonet screw off so you can use attachments for cleaning? I have a Model 1888 w/bayonet.

[Dick Hosmer]

The 1888 should have the following in the butt trap: M1879 combo tool, M1882 headless shell extractor, and a little 'thimble' which screws onto the end of the rod to hold cleaning material.
Your question is confusing - the rod cannot be stowed with the thimble installed - therefore, assuming bayonet IS presently in the stock (?) there can be nothing to "screw off..........." Perhaps you are missing the thimble? Originals are now quite expensive but decent repros are available at modest cost.

[Texxut]

I'm including a picture of both ends of the rod, the 1879 tool and the shell extractor. There doesn't seem to be anyway to screw any thing on to either end of the rod. I don't know what a thimble is. I'll do some searching for it. Yes, the bayonet fits nicely in the stock. I really appreciate your help.
55374

[Dick Hosmer]

55377Very informative picture - thank you. Your rod-bayonet has apparently been shortened by a previous owner - the end should be threaded. The other tools are correct. Here is a picture from S&S catalog. The piece is about an inch long./Users/richardshomefolder/Desktop/thimble.png