Mark,

One thing that I, (and several others) forgot to mention is... if you're going to shoot solid lead conicals, consider getting your hands on some "bore buttons" or felt wads if you will, to load between the powder and projectile. They're readily available through a number of muzzleloading supply houses and can be purchased pre-lubed or unlubed leaving you to decide what lube you would like to use.

I have personally seen a very noticeable difference in group size with and without the use of a felt wad, depending on what projectile I'm shooting. They act as a "gas check", and while some projectiles certainly benefit from their use, others may not. But, it's good to have some on hand when your testing begins if you're considering solid lead conicals.

I personally will not shoot T/C Maxi-bullets anymore (or Maxi-hunters), without the use of a felt wad because the accuracy is much better with than without. On the other hand, The Lee REAL does very well on it's own in my rifles without the use of a felt wad. I have seen a little difference with that projectile using a felt wad, but it wasn't significant. But, I still use one in every one of my rifles that I'm going to load a REAL in for hunting.

I have also read that some RB shooters use them to get very good accuracy while using thinner, "easier loading" patches with heavier charges. They place one between the charge and the PRB and it helps keep the hot gasses from burning through the patch thus acting as a gas check. I have yet to try this, but I'm going to...

Just something to consider...

BPS