John, the easiest tool to use on the cocking rods is a 4" adjustable, a lot faster than the cocking tool. The cocking tool is great for cocking the hammers once the lock is off the gun, and it is great for compressing the mainspring, but the 4" adjustable is best on the cocking rods. Doesn't look as nice using it.
Here is a drawing of the cocking tool if you are interested in making one.