ORIGINAL: RustyOlRanger4x4
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!
The lube on the patch is there for a couple reasons. It helps to make loading a lot easier. It keeps the fowling softer in the barrel and easier to remove or shoot over. And most important, the patch acts as a pressure seal of sorts. When you ignite the powder if the patch is not lubed, the heat from the ignition will burn it up. This will cause the pressures to slip past the ball and results in non consistent barrel pressures which will effect accuracy. Anyone that ever had a rifle that blew patches knows just what I am talking about.
Also when shooting Triple Se7en I like to put a bore button, wonder wad, felt wad, what ever you want to call it, between the powder and the patched ball. T-7 has a very high ignition temperature and is more prone to blowing patches. The wad will protect the patch and normally gives you better accuracy that way.
The lube will meet the powder charge, but if the lube is good, it stays for the most part on the patch. Some lubes in hot temperatures that will move off the patch is Crisco Shortening and some of the lanolin lubes.
Since you do not know the rifle well, start the load off with 70 grains until you are comfortable with the rifle. Also be sure to clean the rifle well before you shoot. Before yoiu shoot,pop a few #11 caps through the nipple to make sure it is clear and the fire channel is open. Then load as normal.