Patch material?

[Naphtali]

I have been informed that linen patch material yield a better result than pillow ticking of the same thickness - because of its superior tear resistance? I have used only lubed unpatched bullets (SPG; 30:1) in my black powder rifles (one muzzleloader, one Shiloh Sharps 1863). Now I want to try patch round balls, but I have no patches or patch material.

Where can I obtain small quantities (20 pieces, or so) of precut .010- or .015-inch dry patches, linen and/or pillow ticking? Patches wanted are to be satisfactory for .715-inch round balls cast from Lyman's mold.

 

[rabjr]

Anything 100% cotton can work. Some things maybe to thin and not work to well but if its 100 % cotton, no synthetics, you can try it. Volunteer an old T-shirt....

 

[Loyalist Dave]

OK well if you want linen, you need to buy a yard of the stuff, as you won't find anybody making linen patches except at a show like Kalamazoo in a cottage industry type setting.

I get my linen from these folks..., Fabrics-Store.com. The problem you will find is not knowing the thickness that you need. The link is to pretty heavy stuff, but it is also unwashed, and so when it's washed, especially in hot water, it should shrink a bit and thicken. It's also not cheap, so if you are looking for a thinner material, you won't know until you spend the money.

The link does mention free samples, but I don't know how big a swatch they will send you. Perhaps if you asked for a swatch of different colors in the same weight, you'd get enough for a good test?


LD

 

[Rifleman1776]

I have been informed that linen patch material yield a better result than pillow ticking

These 'been told', 'I heard', 'been informed' maxims mean nothing. There is more misinformation going around about this ml game than almost any other subject I can think of.
The only way to find out what gives a "better result" in yer gun, be it patching, lube or what, is to go shooting and test for yourself. Pillow ticking is very popular and nearly the standard for ball patching for a reason. Not saying there aren't others but don't accept unverified talk as fact. Try and do for yurself. Good luck and let us know what you learn by trying.

 

[hanshi]

I'll just mention, FWIW, That over the years I've used everything from t-shirts to canvas with consistently good success. I know enough now to be a little picky but I also know enough to realize the difference probably isn't much.

 

[Rokon]

If you're looking for linen, which I do like, search for Irish linen. It's a very close, tough weave in comparison to most garment "linens."

It seems to come in and out of stock fairly rapidly. I order a yard, test it, and order 5 or 6 yards if it's good.