Baker BigBore Remington 1100

Just picked up a nice Baker Big Bore for my 1100. Has a knockdown pin welded into the barrel extension and also looks like it was drilled for a piano wire catcher. Couple questions...
- what size piano wire was used for this, I’d like to give it a try. Also, the Baker barrels have a metal ring that slides down around the gas cylinder (not pictured) Wondering if these can still be had anywhere?

 

Is the ring that slides over the gas cylinder anything like whats used on an 11-87?

 

Many used .044 wire, you can purchase three foot sticks at many hobby shops.
Used for landing gear on model airplanes. If that is not the size your .044 could be used as
a gauge as to what size you need. Price of a three foot stick is about $1.00