Ferguson Breechloading Flintlock Rifle Video

[Larry (Omaha)]

What a unique rifle! Hope you enjoy seeing something different.
Larry

 

[Curley 50 cal]

Why does the ball not roll down the bore when the muzzle is angled towards the ground during the powdering step.

 

[Eterry]

I believe it does, but if it didn't, then you charged the rifle and the ball rolled forward, you'd have a large gap in the powder, which could bulge the breech/barrel.
So as a fail-safe they used a tool. I'd also imagine after a few shots fouling may well prevent the ball from being properly seated. Hence the use of the tool.

 

[Eterry]

I got to handle one at The Rifle Shoppe. I can't imagine anyone else producing them in any quantity.

 

[64Springer]

If it is rifled, the lands would prevent the ball from rolling down the barrel.

When fired the ball would get squeezed in the grooves.

Just like a modern bullet.

Smart folks back then.

 

[fishmusic]

If it is rifled, the lands would prevent the ball from rolling down the barrel.

When fired the ball would get squeezed in the grooves.

Just like a modern bullet.

Smart folks back then.

You can see the rifling marks on the ball when they opened up the ballistic gel. I wonder what the muzzle velocity is.