Don B. Gillespie shot from bench

[AZshot]

I've been meaning to sight this in, after just shooting it offhand all summer.  So I went to my range and used a bench at 50 yds.  I was all ready to have to file the front sight to bring the groups up, figuring it would be low.  Nope, shooting quite well for elevation, a tad left.  Don makes a great rifle, and he got the sights just about spot on.  He'd said he keeps the front a tad high, but I think I'm good. .45 cal, 50 grains FFFG, neatsfoot on a medium snug patch. 

[Daryl]

That's a nice rifle.
The load is getting there. I would try a bit more powder and/or patches for group, before settling on THE load.

[MuskratMike]

I like it. Just a small tap on the sight and I would say you're ready to go! Happy is the shooter who is lucky enough to have anything Don has made.

[AZshot]

Thanks, I did meet another member at the range by coincidence, shooting his flintlock.  Jeff, good to meet you! 

He remembered to pick up patches when checking targets, and showed me mine.  They had been slightly burned through, so I do need a little thicker patch.  In the old days I always shot a very tight load, but this go round I thought it would be nice to not have to put 25 ft/lbs on the ramrod.  I may go down a size in the lead balls, and up a size in the patches to keep them easy loading. 

[flinchrocket]

I would have to disagree with using a smaller ball. If it is less than bore size all you need to do is adjust the patch and lube.
Lead does not spring back, once popped in the barrel it is form fitted to your bore.

[Jeff]

AZShot, What were the odds we would meet same range same day adjacent bench.  Nice to meet you.  Jeff

[AZshot]

Yep, I was very surprised to see another flintlock beside me!  Great meeting you too!

[Srkmarine1101]

This was my experience with the rifle I received from Don 2 weeks ago.  Windage almost perfect. Only needed slight adjustment to dead center. Its a .50cal, about 1.5in high at 50yds with 65gr 3F. Haven't messed with loads too much yet. Have different size (.495) balls on order. Will see if those effect my groups. Also, nice rifle!

[Keith Zimmerman]

Dont change your load.  Just use a felt wad over the powder then seat the patch and ball over it.

[Sharpsman]

File a tat more and tap left a smidgen!!

[MuskratMike]

No, No not the back sight the front sight!

[Daryl]

That depends where he was aiming and at what range he wants the zero.
As well, I would not be happy with that group - yet. It's a good start, though.
Thicker patch or larger ball, maybe some muzzle treatment & differing powder
charge testing.
Seems to me, I started at 65gr. 3F GOEX in my .45 with a water based lube & that one gave
1/2" groups at 50 yards, right off the bat. The ball was .445" and .022" denim patch.
With oil based, Mink Oil and Neetsfoot oil, I had to increase the powder charge by 5gr.
to maintain the same accuracy and point of impact.