How to make a loading block.

[mudd turtle]

If I have a piece of maple and want to make a loading block from it -How long do I make it ? How thick do I make it and how far apart do I drill the holes for the patched and lubed ball? Mudd Turtle.

 

[bwhoffman]

How many balls do you want to carry in your block?
the ones I have made,typically 5 ballers, are in a row. thickness is 7/16 to 1/2 inch. spacing for me, center to center is 1 1/4. I drill first with a 1 inch forstner bit to give me a counter sink (maybe 3/16" at most) and then drill into the pilot for the ball to seat. the purpose of the counter sink is 2 fold....aligns center perfect over my 15/16 barrel AND helps to keep lube off my shirt!

 

[bwhoffman]

Here is a pic to give youa visual. shape is endless! have seen lots of neat things/shapes and lots of different woods used.

these are out of mohagany, furniture grade, which I have abunch of, in fact, I use it for kindling!

 

[mudd turtle]

Thanks for the post and the help. I am going to get started makeing mine. mudd turtle.