Safety with Spanish and American Barrels in general
Since getting my chrono and new Sidekick, I discovered something I was previously unaware of. A new barrel can berough enough to affect velocities considerably. There is a major difference between 1435 fps (after some breaking in)and 1105 fps (on a new, clean, unused bore). That difference must translate to a higher peak pressure.
When I mentioned my findings, Pittsburghhunter commented that he always broke in his guns with ballets or the like. From a safety issue, I think it is a good thing too. Had I loaded 150 grains pellets, instead of the 65 grains loose, I suspect that the pressures on my initial firingswould have been pretty dog gone high, higher at least, than they would be now.
For whatever its worth, starting light, with cheap, affordable, conicals could prevent an accident even with an approved load.
Happy Hunting, Phil