Another ball\patch combo. Patch is getting cut loading

[Steeltrap]

Went to the range today with front and rear range bags. Shot several shots using Hornady .440RB and .018 lubed PT. I shot 60gr FF and 65gr FF. The first pic is 60gr FF.

I then went to a thinner patch of .015PT and dropped the powder to 50gr. That's the second pic.

I'm now using new, proper caliber size PT patches. I have more shooting to do before I settle on the load, but right now the .015 patch with 50gr appears promising.

I may try .045RB as well. That will depend upon if I can tighten up the groups with the .440RB or not. I hate to buy a box of .445 and watch them collect dust.

[Daryl]

Let's see .018" spit patch .445 ball and 65 to 70gr. 3F at 50 yards.

[Daryl]

I have found 25 yards is only useful for roughing in sights.
For great accuracy at 50 yards, takes a tighter load and more powder.
Of course this all depends on what you want or demand from the rifle.
Some guys are happy with just hitting the target as they never compete.

[Steeltrap]

Thanks Daryl. I have to make an order so I’ll add some .445’s.

My expectations are to have this rifle shooting at least as well as my 54 cal Leman.  Here's a pic of my 54 cal at 100 yards, off a bench of course:

[Daryl]

Target visibility is very important concerning grouping ability at longer ranges.
Its important at all ranges  not-so the longer the range.

[Steeltrap]

I went to the range today with my supply of 3F GOEX. I've had a pound of this for a few years when I tried it in my 50cal pistol. My pistol prefers 2F. (Go figure)

So, the first pic is 60gr, then 65gr, and the final was 70gr. I only shot 2 with the 70gr as that's all time permitted today. I used Ballistol for a wet lube and used only .018PT. These results were much better than previous outings.

I set up the target at 50 yards this time as I just figured I'd see how well 3F would do. It proved much better.

My initial thoughts are 65gr may be the right load. This is a youth rifle and I had cut the barrel length to 30". So, unlike a "normal" BP rifle, this one doesn't have the additional length to burn more powder.