sabotloader,

I like the thought of using the 300 grain bullet because it will get the penetration for an exit hole; trajectory is not much more than the 250 grainers and carriesthe energy out to 125 yards a bit better. The problem I have with these 50 caliber flintlocks(Late season in PA is flintlock only)with the fast twist barrels is they shoot the sabots with enough accuracy and energy for shots out to 125 yards but the velocity of real black powder is not enough to expand the pistol bullets out that far. The regular xtp 300 grainers are supposed to open up well at the 1200 f.p.s or soI hit that deer with but I saw little evidence of good expansion. I like the results that Chap got with his flinter and the 300 grain Gold dots and he was pushing them about the same speed I get with 100 grains of 2f; so I think I need to get some and see how they do.I gotta have the exit and some blood trail if there is no snow were I hunt.

I have looked for far to many deer that don't leave a decent blood trail when shot with a roundball. I like hunting with them but believe me when I tell you that I don't shoot beyond 60 yards with a .50 caliber roundball anymore and I hit mine right below the ear with em now and it takes em out quick. Most of my hunting buds still use them and the results on even well hit deer beyond 60 yards or so can be a crap shoot. Some down right now and some go for long distance with little blood. If there is no snow it can mean a lot of work and wasted hunting time for the others in the group. My first deer with the saboted set-up was bang flop and it shows great promise but bullet selection is going to be the key.