I would agree that a PowerBelt should not be pushed too fast. Although I have not shot game with a PB, I have seen the results of game shot with them and I would come to the conclusion that the PB's were pushed too fast (Ultra fragmented) in those instances.

When attempt to work up a load with an ML, the load that I eventually end up hunting with is the primer, powder, projectile combination that is the absolute most accurate. Which is not always 80gr of powder. In fact I only have a couple of 50cal sidelocks that shoot the best with an 80gr loose charge of 3FG Swiss and that is with a PRB and a wad.

The folks I know that threw in the towel with PB's gave me their left over bullets. I have not tried PB's in everything ML I own (that would take a long time), but I have not been able to get PB's to print as well in my or other folks ML's as other projectiles, which is the main reason why I don't hunt with them. I do however sometimes carry a PB load for a quicker follow-up shot, which I have yet to need.

Folks shooting Powerbelts and 50gr T7 Pellets in two or three pellet combinations are from the beginning (according to your findings) are pushing them too fast when considering say a 100yard or less hunting shot area. I would agree. Should state that I am not a pellet fan for a variety of reasons but I understand why some folks like/use pellets.

I am interested with the PB platinum's as the claim is that they are harder than the copper jacketed and will likely give them a try on first the accuracy department and then if the accuracy is acceptable (to me), then try them in a hunting situation.

Thanks much FG, for the powerbelt write-up. I would say folks should forget shooing PB with preformed pellets and only with loose powder. Even though you can get a 30gr equivlelant pellet + a 50gr to make 80gr load, your best ability to workup a load is with loose powder and a measure with at least 5gr increments.

Tahquamenon