WOW, have I got a problem !!! --- I have the Black Diamond, and I absolutely cannot get it to shoot good. How bad is it ??? --- Well, it will guarantee me a 15" group at 100yds !!! AND, that is with a VX11 3x9x40 Leupold scope !!! AND I swab the barrel out after every shot !!! AND every round is seated in the barrel to the same depth. It has nothing to do with my shooting ability, as I shot 3/4" groups with my .270WSM yesterday as well, and with further tuning on the handloads I figure I will have it down to 1/2" groups --- I do know how to shoot.

This is what I have been trying with it so far. I have been loading according to mfr's specs, and I very highly suspect I got ahold of some wrong information.

#1 Load TC 250gr Sabot, 100gr of Pyrodex, CCI#11 primers

#2 Load CVA 295gr Powerlets, 100gr Pyrodex, CCI#11 primers.

There is absolutely no consistancy with either load. With a 3-shot group, the first round may hit "dead center" --- the 2nd round may be 12" to 15" low right --- the 3rd round might be off the paper.

Ordinarily, one would think the Sabot round would outshoot the Powerlet, because of a tighter seal. It pretty near takes all my Arnold Schwarzzeneger strength to get a Sabot seated.

I suspect TWO possible problems:

#1 Since Pyrodex pelletsare slower to ignite than black powder, is it possible that I should be using 209 primers instead of CCI#11 primers ??? --- If so, is there a nipple conversion kit available ??? --- So far I have not been able to find one.

#2 Is it possible, that the powder charge is insufficient to stabalize the bullets I am shooting ???

I have NEVER had a problem withother muzzleloaders like this before. At one time I had a TC Renegade, 54cal, and shot maxi-balls with a peep sight, and got 2" to 3" groups at 100yds.

IF ANYONE has any suggestions, or information, or whatever, as to what may be the cure to my problem I sure would greatly appreciate any help I can get !!!