"In about two weeks I should be getting my finished .45 SMR and need to have some idea where to start with it. I'm new to muzzle loading rifles and flintlock in particular. Have used C&B pistols in SASS and BP cartridge rifles."
Unlike modern firearms, muzzleloaders don't have hard and fast "accuracy loads". You really have to experiment with these toys and each will tell you what it likes.
"I also see that leather is used to hold the flint in the hammer do you make or buy them? What weight of leather and what is the width and length if you make it."
The leather is usually something like 2-3 ounce or so. Not a big deal. It just holds the flint in the cock. I make my leather come out to the tip of the flint on top. It prevents chipping from a rebounding frizzen (if it happens).
"How much powder in the barrel and is the primer measured also."
I start off using 45 grains for a 45, 50 grains for a 50, etc. Go up in increments of 5 grains and shoot from the bench. When you get a small group, there is your load. Listen for the report to go from "pop" to "CRACK!" When it cracks you are getting closer to the accuracy load.
" I was told to use FFFFg for primer powder"
Do a Google search for Larry Pletcher and priming powders. He did a series of high-speed tests, and found that there is a difference in performance. No one can tell it with human senses, but the high speed cameras tell the tale. It depends on how much of an edge you want in ignition speed. I use 4f in the pan, as I want all the accuracy I can get. Some use 2f. It will go off, but slower, and the muzzle can move in that split second. NullB Swiss is faster than 4f, but plates my frizzen and pan with graphite. 4f is almost as fast, but doesn't have that negative. I just fill up the recess in the pan. Don't fret over the amount. Some do though.....
" and FFg or FFFg powder for barrel."
The old timers' wisdom was that you used 3f up to .45 for accuracy. At .50 you could go either 2f or 3f. Above .50 you used 2f. Muskets and cannons used coarser. I'd use 3f if I were you. I personally wouldn't adjust my sights until I at least worked up loads with 3f.
" Would Swiss 1 1/2 work as I have about a pound I used some in the .45-70 Government trapdoor."
1.5 Swiss will certainly go off in a .45. Give it a try. It is a bit coarse, but you never know. 1.5 Swiss is close in speed to 2f Goex (thank you Herb). Of course, 2f is not my top choice for a .45 either.
"Kibler said start with: Ball size .445 Patches would be .012 or .015"
I'd try a .445 with a .015 canvas cotton patch or a .440 with a .018 patch. It will be tight, but therein usually lies the accuracy load.
BTW, don't use a "sled" or "lead sled" for sighting in or load development. These slim stocks need to move in recoil.
I hope this helps. God Bless, Marc
