I keep looking over Lyman's rifles and thinking that the Deerstalker would be a better purchase over the Traditions Deerhunter. I've heard nothing but good things about Lyman and hit or miss with Traditions.

Anyone know if Lyman is all American?

I am curious about shooting RB, but seems windy days could be horrible at distance. Any reason why I couldn't triple patch my .457 balls and fire them?

When the term "conical" is used does it only refer to big chunks of lead or does it include, say, the Hornady FPB's (full bore bullets)?

.50 cal handgun bullets are designed differently and won't work correct?

I recently acquired an Old Army and am considering conical/bullet moulds. If I get into casting what size would I need for a .50 cal rifle?

Bronko: Sorry I wasn't more specific in my question. I meant bullet weight in a 1:48" twist. If a 60" is ideal for a ball, and 20-38" is ideal for long bullets I assumed that maybe lighter weight bullets might be better for a 48" twist. But my reasoning has let me down several times in the past...

I intend on using 3F 777 so as to stock up on one powder to use for both my revolver and rifle. And from the data I saw on Hogdgon's sight 3F typically produced much higher velocity. And from what I've been reading it's less fouling, easier to clean, and produces the least amount of smoke compared to other subs. Currently I have 2 lbs of Pyrodex P and 1 of RS that I got with the Ruger.

pluckit: I would assume that I'd probably be happier with the Lyman's over the Traditions. I typically believe in the idea of you get what you pay for. What would you expect for $250?

I keep looking at Lyman's Trade Rifle and various Hawkens too, but I think the Deerstalker is calling to me even though I think I'd be happier with the performance from a 1:32" twist GP Hunter. It's just not very handy, and an extra $200 for gear is always a nice bonus!

Anyone find the aerodynamic (SST, FTX, FPB, etc.) bullets worth the expense over a standard bullet design?

Thanks for the input guys!