Hi, all. Quick update on my posting. Today, I fired the Traditions Kentucky Rifle (kit version) 18 times, all flawless. Loads (all Pyrodex RS ranged from 50gr to 110gr (max), all with Hornady .490 round ball and Win #11Mag percussion caps. MANY thanks to all who posted help with my problems and with advise on the hammer problem and misfires. Your recommendations obviously made a huge difference! No misfires, no delayed fires. All caps remained in the hammer bowl but were removed easily (I didn't get cut!). I shot all 18 rounds with no cleaning between shots. It did take me two hours after I got home to clean her up to the point she was at this morning. A lot of work but I had a great time. Thanks again to all of you!