Just an update. One of the generous members on this site sent me some .535 round balls to try. While they shot just fine my patches are still shredded.
Im hesitant to add more lube as I see others do. I don’t want a wet patch on top of powder that may be loaded fir a day or more when I’m hunting.
I just got a tin of Mink oil to try. I doubt this will cure everything but I wanted to try it.
ive changed powder charges from 70-90 grains. No difference.
I’m gonna try steel wool in the bore again as I still have small holes in a circle around the patch. I’ve tried smoothing the muzzle already. I also loaded a ball two inches then pulled it out. No damage there. As for a firewall I did try a patch over the powder. That really didn’t do much.
I’ll keep trying but thought I’d keep y’all informed if you’re interested. Thanks again.
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