ORIGINAL: DaveC
Well after many years of wanting a ML I decided on the stainless NEF Sidekick after reading about it here and the reviews at the big box stores websites.
I made a trip to Gander Mountain and picked up what I thought I needed. I’m now reading I might have made a few bad choices. Returning the items is not out of the question, but not very feasible either (45 minute drive one way).
So here is what I got for starters.
295 gr powerbelt HP’s.
777 pellets
Rem clean bore primers
Bore butter
Cleaning stuff
My ?? are:
1. Do I need to use bore butter with the power belts?
2. Where do I get a decent ramrod, will this one do for the short term?
3. How many shots can I expect from a primer carrier?
4. Should I return the Rem 209’s for the 777’s?
1. Do not use bore butter with powerbelts
2. My Walmart has some aluminum rods on clearance for $3.50. Will make an OK range rod, but you won't be able to pull with it without pinning the ends.
3. anywhere from 10 to40 depending on the charge and bullet you use
4. The kleanbores i think would be just fine. I've been using Pyro RS, Pyro P, and 3f Goex BP with my sidekick and I can't tell any difference between primers.
I would do this though, get a box of buffalo ballets and shoot them off for grins and giggles first. 60 grains powder is plenty for this step(i wouldn't waste the 777 pellets popping ballets) This will do alot to smooth your new bore. I found powerbelts difficult to load before I shot the ballets. I broke my ramrod loading one on a perfectly clean barrel. So be sure to get a range rod.
Oh I almost forgot. Congratulations on your new muzzleloader. I've had my SS Sidekick for a little less than a year. Its a real shooter and its been great fun both hunting and at the range. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I have mine.