Home made patch cutter

[lorren68]

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[roundball]

And if that should break, remember that square patches are a quick back-up...

 

[ChrisHarris]

Why do people cut patches ahead of time? Is there any harm in using strips of pillow ticking and simply cutting at the muzzle?

What advantage is gained by cutting patches ahead of time? Or is it just a way to pass the time on a rainy Sunday afternoon?

 

[lorren68]

You are absolutly correct sir, as a matter of fact that is what I use. I was reading a post on the forum about how to cut a bunch of patches quick, and people were talking about gasket punches in a drill press. I decided to see if I could make a usable/functional tool to do the job. An old hole saw, a dremel tool, an old whet rock, and about 30-45 min a here you go.

 

[lorren68]

We gain the same thing you gain from cutting at the muzzle...A roundball wraped in a patch seated over black powder so the fun can begin. Honestly both methods achive the same results, so what difference does it make. I say do it how you will just enjoy yourself.

 

[roundball]

Why do people cut patches ahead of time?
Is there any harm in using strips of pillow ticking and simply cutting at the muzzle?
What advantage is gained by cutting patches ahead of time?

Speaking only for myself...repeat...speaking only for myself: overall convenience in reloading.

Reloading with precut / prelubed patches is much simpler, more efficient, ensures shot to shot consistency, no chance of slicing a finger with a patch knife, etc.
I carry a ball block with 3-4 PRBs sitting at the ready...simply drop powder, then ram a PRB into the muzzle.

Others mileage may vary...

 

[necchi]

Why do people cut patches ahead of time?

People simply associate with it better. They started with purchased precut prelubbed and because of that it's natural to them.

Switched over to cut at the muzzle years back and the ease and convienace has been with me ever since.
Those that I have mentored in the hobby have learned cut at the muzzle and it's natural to them,
See?
It's just a matter of teaching or learning.

 

[ohio ramrod]

Cutting patches ahead of time, means you don't have to use a knife each shot. Some of us are klutzes and the less we fumble with a knife the less we cut ourselves.Same with a small priming horn, we don't spill as much powder as when priming straight from the main horn. Final results are the same just some find one method easier. :idunno:

 

[zimmerstutzen]

I have cut at the muzzle, it is extra hassle.

If I am hunting, I use a ball block. If target shooting, I use precut patches lubed with spit.

I also don't like to use patches as big as those cut at the muzzle.

Granted steel is different than the old iron barrels, I don't want anything to affect the muzzle or it's crown. I have seen an old soft barrel slightly dished at the muzzle.

I think it is mostly personal preference. I prefer less hassle.

 

[David W.]

Why do people cut patches ahead of time? Is there any harm in using strips of pillow ticking and simply cutting at the muzzle?

What advantage is gained by cutting patches ahead of time? Or is it just a way to pass the time on a rainy Sunday afternoon?

Well, some people cut at the muzzle, some don't. I believe the old timers did the same. It boils down to choice.

 

[Dean2]

So back to the original topic. Tool turned out good, how does it cut. How many layers, drill press or free hand, what is the backer material to cut against.

 

[lorren68]

The tool works great, I can drill through enough layers to fill the void in the center of the saw. I use it in my cordless drill, freehand. I use a UHMW "plastic" roller, laying on its end as a backer.