The mold is for conicals not much bigger than a ball. I've seen a few videos on using them and don't expect a problem if I leave room for it in the cylinder. However its diameter is 450 and I don't want to crush the grooves when pushing it down.
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Black Powder Bullet size
- Thread starter MaconGuns
- Start date
The mold is for conicals not much bigger than a ball. I've seen a few videos on using them and don't expect a problem if I leave room for it in the cylinder. However its diameter is 450 and I don't want to crush the grooves when pushing it down.
Do you have to use a wad? No but you are correct, they are mainly to prevent chain fire. In my trusty old 44 I've always used little precut wool wads. I've also seen some people grease the front of the cylinder after loading to keep things sealed. I tried that back in the 80's and decided the mess wasn't worth it. Been shooting BP since 1985 and also tried making paper cartridges too.
Bore butter also prevents chain fires
used to use crisco as a cross fire prevention -- probably no longer made --
I'm hoping using the oversized 454 will prevent chain fires since it should seal up the front pretty good. Was concerned about air pockets but plan on using generous amounts of powder to fill it up. Will have to see if that effects accuracy. I'm not expecting issues with ball. I've shot a few rounds through my revolver and rifle without issues. probably won't use any grease over the bullets. I've got a tube of bore butter for storage. Mostly interested in casting and using conicals. I decided to order a Dragoon 3rd and want to possibly hunt with it. So powder charge size and bullet type are what I'm researching. Almost ordered a Walker but figured the Dragoon was more refined
I will tell you from bitter experience that shooting range is not soft lead. It is akin to wheelweights in hardness (not suitable for BP), plus it takes forever to get all the crap out from jackets and such.
It's getting harder and harder to find good soft lead. The last I picked up was at a recycling/junk yard. You use to could buy it at plumbing supply houses, but the last time I asked, they didn't carry any because no one uses cast iron pipe anymore.
The most convenient way is to buy some chilled shot, but it's pricey. If you can find someone selling recycled shot, it will be softer than range lead.
