I just got back from the range after trying out my newest concoction in a 1850s vintage swiss rifle with a .48 cal whitworth (hexagonal bore) barrel. I had tried using a flat based bullet with mediocre results and decided to go the hollow base route. Started with a .450 mini mold and reamed it out in stages to .479 while keeping the shape the same. Tried that first with 50 gr of 2F powder and the first two shots were touching at 50 yards --- aha this is it I foolishly thought except then the next 3 shots were all over the place. I switched to 50 grains of 3F and the bullet moved about 4 inches right to strike near the point of aim. Similar result; first two or 3 close then 2 fliers. I upped the charge to 60 gr of 3F and slightly better group although one flier.
Because there is such a change in lateral point of impact between 2F and 3F powder, I have to wonder how much of the problem is varying compaction of the powder when I ram the bullet down. Further compounded by aging eyes that cannot see the bullseye particularly well even though I was only shooting at 50 yards. I guess more testing is in order but at least there does seem to be potential. Also have to try cleaning between shots and see if that is the problem.
cheers mooncoon
Because there is such a change in lateral point of impact between 2F and 3F powder, I have to wonder how much of the problem is varying compaction of the powder when I ram the bullet down. Further compounded by aging eyes that cannot see the bullseye particularly well even though I was only shooting at 50 yards. I guess more testing is in order but at least there does seem to be potential. Also have to try cleaning between shots and see if that is the problem.
cheers mooncoon
