Best way to bow wedge pins?

[laagamer]

Every time I knock out the wedge pins on my LGPR, they become loose upon reinsertion.

I think I read you can use a tap to lightly tap down on the fat end of them while in the gun, as an effective method.

Any ideas?

I'm sick of just leaning them on my screwdriver and whacking with my hammer

 

[Phil Coffins]

Don’t bend the pin (key) tap the loop to have a bit bow in it.
8320AFCD-4D6B-4267-8064-CB5F6AA59DBD by Oliver Sudden, on Flickr

 

[64Springer]

Make a new wedge.

Fit it to your rifle.

 

[laagamer]

Nevermind, guys! Got it

I remembered I had the perfect tool. I have an old jeweler's block. Set the pin on the block bow side down. Used my tap and a hammer to gently tap the center a handful of times. Added more bow, then tapped it into the holes under the barrel.

Nice and tight! She's in perfect working order

Thanks again guys for all your help over the past year or so, as I've been learning muzzleloading!

Not only did I have better groupings yesterday, but I fired 45 shots without a single flash in the pan or misfire! Didn't even change flints!

A good soldier always takes care of his weapon!...or, um, now that's soldiering!


EDIT: Sorry, but follow up question. Breaking down my LGPR yesterday to clean her, what's this circular thing in here underneath the lock, next the the trigger mechanism?

EDIT 2: Well, the manual says it's the "Lock Screw Bushing". The heck is a bushing? The lock screws in on the opposite side of the weapon, I thought? What's its exact purpose? Should it be cleaned as well?