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I've noticed alot of modelers use brass for their rods. I know you can get a variety of many materials including plasticard.

So why brass? And what are the features of each commonly used materials for modelling?

I don't know why brass is common, but I can say that it's readily available, easy to cut, and it's much more durable than plastic rod for things like pinning and antennae.

Pretty much what vizier said.

The pin is there to add strength to join. Brass Rod definitely provides that

Brass does not oxidize like iron or copper does.

People use brass because it's a relatively soft metal (in that it's easy to cut) and strong (durable) but you can apply all the water based products you want to it without having to worry about any rust forming or other wear and tear from moisture..

Ok, would it be advisable to use it as a extended barrel for a bolter? (With miliput for the raised muzzle)

Brass would work fine for that.

In most train model stores you can get tubes & rod. Take your bolter in (for scale reference) & select a rod & a tube. Cut the tube slightly longer than the rod & then you'll get a more realistic barrel.
Cutting the tube: I use either a razor saw (bought in the model shop) or a plumber's tube cutter - just take it very slowly as the tube is easy to dent.
Cutting the brass rod: DON'T use your model clippers - chances are that they'll put a dent in the clipper's blades (trust me - I learnt the hard way). Use either a razor saw or electrician's wire strippers - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Multi-Function-Connections-Electrician-multi-purpose-wiring-related/dp/B01N1HBCYD/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1507030953&sr=8-18&keywords=wire+stripping+tools. Use the holes near the centre pivot.
You'll have to gently file both to get a good, clean finish.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Oh - I also use florist's wire for pinning - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gauge-Silver-Wire-Lengths-Wires/dp/B0050HWV9Q/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1507031072&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=florist+wire
This is only for light-weight joints as the wire is very soft. You can use an old set of clippers to cut this stuff.