Conical projectiles in Cap and Ball revolvers

MikeD81

MikeD81

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I've only ever fired round balls out of my cap and ball revolvers but lately I've started thinking about trying conical projectiles. Is it any more trouble? Do they feed well into the cylinder? If it matters most of my pistols are .44 cal.

Thoughts?

Thanks

Mike
 
Duelist 1954 has a good youtube series comparing conicals vs round balls. On some revolvers (Piettas?) you have cut out a bigger space under the loading lever in order to properly fit the conicals
Here's his results in terms of power/accuracy for 30 grains of black powder


2021-02-27-21-46-04.png


Honestly it would be only worth it if you are already into casting bullets. In addition to buying a special purpose mold, keep in mind you would also have to cast with pure lead or a very soft alloy (Wheelweights/range scrap might put too much stress on the loading lever)
 
MikeD81 said:
I've only ever fired round balls out of my cap and ball revolvers but lately I've started thinking about trying conical projectiles. Is it any more trouble? Do they feed well into the cylinder? If it matters most of my pistols are .44 cal.

Thoughts?

Thanks

Mike
Click to expand...

Mike, what I like about conicals is using them to make paper cartridges. Which generally makes for a better day at the range less fuss when reloading.

Here's a link to one of my favorite videos but there are many more if you are interested.

Regards, Retreever

https://youtu.be/-2HUcfAyaaQ
 
The conical is more fussy to get seated straight unless the heel is the right size, the opening is large enough and the end of the rammer has the right profile.
Personally I'm usually more accurate with roundball and don't need the extra weight for hunting or long range so just stick with balls most of the time. Might play with the paper cartridges sometime but they work fine with balls too.
 
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