Let's see your patch knives and technique

[BrownBear]

Smaller. I'd have trouble consistently centering a patch so small, but due to the cutting they're perfectly centered each time. It certainly doesn't matter whether the patch is centered or not as far as I know, just so long as it reaches up past the radius where the ball squeezes it against the barrel wall.

 

[mbokie]

So pretty don't matter, it's covering the ball and the thickness being appropriate. Right?

 

[Stumpkiller]

Depending on the caliber - probably a little smaller. You couldn't line up a pre-cut patch as precisely so they have to be larger to prevent a "bald spot".

 

[mbokie]

Do you use your starter to seat it flush? Or just by hand?

Dutch recommends a spot on the short starter sphere, but not the shortest starter, if that makes any sense and the jargon is right.(?)

 

[lonehunter]

In a perfect world, You want the top of the ball flush with the muzzle,
A little below flush wont hurt anything either.
Its not that critical. :v

 

[mbokie]

Well, I had it flush all but once I think.

The knife was real easy to get ridiculous sharp. I can almost drag it across the muzzle without holding the patch and cut it.

I did clip some lead once.

Well, I think I need to get back out and shoot a lot more. :grin:

I've got two buddies that I think will love bp and flints. I want to be better organised when I go see them.

 

[smo]

Do you use your starter to seat it flush? Or just by hand?

I have a small wooden mallet i use to seat the ball flush with the muzzle.I then use the short starter to get it on down the barrel more.Of course this is only while shooting at the range. In the field i just use the short starter and beat it into the muzzle with my palm :idunno: I've seen others use the butt of their knife or lay the blade flat on the top of the ball and press in flush with the muzzle that way.

 

[mbokie]

Have been using the starter.