I use to make paper cartridges; lots of them. I found out that I spent just as much time making paper cartridges as I did shooting. Then I discovered the marvelous invention of the rubber thread protector.
As you can see in the photo below the rubber thread protector contains the powder. To keep the lubricant from contaminating the powder, I take a plastic grocery bag and wrap a section around the base of the Minie ball; similar to the way you would use the cloth to patch a round ball.
I stick the ball with plastic around it in the tube then cut with knife or scissors, leaving a patch of plastic bag to protect the powder from the lubricant. This also prevents the lubricant from sticking to the inside of the rubber tube.
I do the same thing with smaller tubes for the .36 and .44 Caliber revolver.
Here is the link to the seller. You pick a length and inside diameter smaller than the size of your ball.
For example, I chose a tube that was .535" ID and 3" long for the .58 Minie Ball.
For the .36 caliber revolver use a tube with a .355" ID and 1 or 1 1/2 inches long. I use the longer length as it works good for a 20 grain charge.
For the .44 caliber revolver use a tube with a .437" ID and 1 or 1 1/2 inches long depending on your powder charge. If you are using a 20-30 grain charge the shorter length is good. On the other hand, I need the longer length for a 40 grain charge for my 3rd model Dragoon. That's about all I can squeeze in the 1 1/2 inch tube.
They don't have online ordering. Just make a call to the number of the dealer closest to you from the information on the contact page.
They are great to deal with.
http://www.argonusa.com/color_coded_vinyl_caps.php
