I started out on an inline.

learning curves
how to clean it.
what products to use to clean it
the right bullet/powder/sabot/primer (cap) to use
when and how to swab between shots if needed

sidelocks came another learning curve.

how to get an constant ignition
what patch to use for round ball
relearning how to sight in open sights
what powder to use
what cap to use
if i really do need to swa between shots

now I am on flintlocks
how to get an good an constant ignition
what powder for the priming pan.
what powder for the main charge
what patch that would work


will it never stop

No, it will not. For example, over a period of many many years I tried and used a wide assortment of patch lubes, both commercial and home made. About three or four years ago I finally settled on straight olive oil as being as good as any and better than most and started using olive oil exclusively. Then last year I tried Liquid Wrench on a lark. Now that's all I use. Next year I may find that used motor oil from a Chevy engine with at least 80,000 miles is the best patch lube ever.

wonder if oil from my wife's car would work