As some of you know, i recently joined the blackpowder world with the purchase of my first ML ( T/C Omega ). While discussing ML season at the local bait and tackle store this week, an older gentleman proceeded to tell me ( not knowing what I recently bought as I had not told it yet ) that after all his many years of blackpowder shooting the only mfg he tells people to avoid is Thompson Center. He said he had one and after 250 rounds he had worn the barrel out. He stated he sent the barrel back to Thompson and they sent him a new one but with no explanation as why it had worn out so quickly. He continued saying he knew a 'bunch' of fellow workers that complained of decreasing accuracy as their Thompsons aged. They all sent back their barrels and all got new ones with no explanation. He claims that the barrels were too soft. Said he could cut them with his knife.

This sounds like BS to me. But I just listened because :

A) He was my parents age and I was raised to respect and not contradict my elders.

B) My limited knowledge gave me no foundation for an intelligent response.


Anyway, can anybody shed any light on this?