I want to thank all those who chimed in on my original post. I finally got to the range. Realize that my eyesight is not all that great and about 100 yards is as far as I can manage open sights. I set up at 50 yards. I decided to start with 90 gr. of 777. I also tried 95 gr., 100 gr. and 105 gr. I was thrilled with the groups using 100 gr. and have decided to hang with that. I did learn a lot about "patch and ball" seating. For sure I really had to think about the force I was using tom pack. Took me 5-6 shots to "center" the group. I shot the 100 gr. load 25 times and almost all hit a circle of about 4" in diameter. Most on the right hand side of center. I had three shots that were way, way out of that group .... low 4" - 6". Not sure why. Not bad for an old man. I had to clean after about every 3 rd. shot due to difficulty seating the ball. Is 3 shots - then clean about normal?

Better to keep the PRB to 100yd max anyway, so you're good.

Just my personal opinion. The round ball loses energy fast.

I like to clean every shot, but I don't use T7. My powder has more fouling.

That is good shooting! Nice work, I'd be real happy with that at 100yds - especially since you say your eyesight ain't what it used to be :D

Personally, I've always just used a spit patch between shots when using real black powder, pyro, t7, etc. I don't do a full clean until I am done. I know some folks like to swab with alcohol or windex between shots.

Spit patch is what I use between shots. Soap and water at home.

OK tell me about this "Spit patch" deal ? And if not T7 then what other powder should I try.

By the way, I am probably going to limit my shots to 75 yards or less.

Buddy of mine has a Hawken style. His eyesight is far worse than mine so he uses a scope. Not sure what brand but supposed to be a high quality reproduction of what was used way back when. Neat looking.

Some guys put the patch in their mouth to wet it. I think that gets it too wet. I just lick one side 2-3 times, and put that side towards the bore. Then follow that with a dry patch on both sides.

T7 is ok if you like it, and it's working for you.

Nice job Mojotex!! I know you used 777 with good result but I would pick up a pound of black powder sometime and give it a try. You may find your groups tighten up so it wouldn't hurt to try it. If your sights are adjusted properly and your still printing right of center, it could be that you're "pulling" rather than squeezing the trigger providing you're a right hand shooter. You could lighten the set trigger a bit and see if that helps.

BPS