Ive had an old CVA sidelock sitting in the corner for years now and Ive never actually shot the gun(it was given to me by a relative since he diddent use it anymore) but ive never actually used one of these and dont know anyone who does, I have a inline that I use on occasion but thats about as close as I get. Theres a couple things I dont understand about the "traditional" muzzle loader like patches? I plan to shoot a lead roundball no perticular reason why just figured it would be a good start, but apparently I need a patch for these things? I wanna use loose powder I have some Triple 7 under the bed ill try out but my main concernis the patches for now. Whats the advantage of a lubed patch over a dry patch or is there one? Dosent a lubed patch wet the powder if it sits for awhile? I have some basic load tables to start with but any help in this area is greatly appriciated. I still have a bit of work to do on it, the hammer wont stay back and I was told by the previous owner that a piece of metal inside was chipped or something so I need to take it apart and check it out so it'll be a little while before I get to shoot it. Thanks!