I’m planning on getting some shots in with my new smooth rifle this weekend. I’d like to work up a squirrel hunting load for next month. What would be a good place to start with a .50 caliber smooth rifle?
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Shot Load for .50 Caliber Smooth Rifle
- Thread starter Splitear
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Comfortably_Numb
The Evil Mike Brooks
Probably 3/4-7/8oz shot. You should try up to 1oz to see how it works.
Banjoman
50 Cal.
What he said.
What they said with 55 grains of powder. Also try a patched round ball with the same powder load. You may be surprised.
4 or 3 f.
Comfortably_Numb
The Evil Mike Brooks
3f. Nobody in the states shoots 4f for the main charge.
They do, just not come out yet.
Comfortably_Numb
The Evil Mike Brooks
They certainly don't in national level competition.
Oh wow, do they use .50 cal smooth bores in national level competitions?
I didn't know that. Cool.
Comfortably_Numb
The Evil Mike Brooks
I'm sure you wouldn't have a clue one way or the other.
joevic57
32 Cal
I don't need to tell you this...but while working up that load....be sure to shoot some paper! And you might try 1FG powder along with 2FG if you have any or can get your hands on some. Just food for thought and consideration, this is how I load my 12 gauge S x S vintage muzzle loader....powder down....tightly packed ball of wasp next over the powder.....followed by two cads cut from waxed milk cartons....followed by more shot than powder...and one card over the shot. Heavy nitro over powder cards can fly through and disrupt your shot pattern....the wasp next seals the bore and will break apart and cause no problems...neither do the light cards. A fiber wad is not needed since back set pressure is vented through the nipples or vent in a flintlock. Google VM Starr for some down to earth real expertise on loading muzzle loading shotguns. Also, look up the Sky Chief loading recipe which is out of the box but works in most guns. Good hunting, stay safe, and keep your powder dry.
