I personally want to explore the exotic orings territory.
We may have some machinists here so they can do their part.
The design is flawed. Doubt the issue will completely go away.
I really believe in a PTFE oring. The slickest material on earth. What is more, when I apply TefDri layer on the rod then the stiction issue goes away or it is greatly reduced. However, as nervoustrigger pointed out, there may be an issue with proper sealing. I believe it will be good enough thanks to the conical cavity.
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