Smoothbore pistol load suggestion....

[raccoonrough]

Okay,

This may be covered somewhere on this forum already, so sorry if that is the case.

But, I recently got a .58 cal./24 gauge smoothbore 1750's French style flintlock pistol. It has a 10 inch barrel.

So, I am seeking some load data. I figured I would start with a .562 round ball with a .20 patch and 30-40 grains of 3F.
Does that sound reasonable?

Also, for fun...… has anyone ever come up with and shot a buck & ball load from a pistol like this?
Like a .58 cal. round ball with six smaller balls on top? Not sure what size of buck shot that would be...….but has anyone ever done that here?
Or, what about just a buck shot load? Nine buck shot?

Suggestions?

Thanks
Spence

 

[RicM]

Interesting question with a buckshot load. Something I too would love to try out like bird shot or something as such.

With my Model 1842 Aston & Johnson .52 caliber percussion smooth bore I shoot .530 round ball with a .10 lubed patch and 30-35 grains 2F. She shoots spot on target with a tight grouping at 20 yards. I would think your in the ball park with yours, but I am still considered a new-be learning about muzzle loading and loving it.

 

[ohio ramrod]

For myself with a ten inch barrel I would not go over 30 grain FFF, probably starting at 25 grain.

 

[Britsmoothy]

Always have wanted to try birdshot in a smoothbore pistol.
Please show us your findings when you get to it.

 

[Robby]

"So, I am seeking some load data. I figured I would start with a .562 round ball with a .20 patch and 30-40 grains of 3F.
Does that sound reasonable?"
I have a .62 smoothbore pistol and to me your load sounds reasonable to me. After shooting it I think you will have the answer to your follow up questions.
Robby

 

[Whitworth]

I use 25 grains in my US 1842 pistol with a .530 ball. Seemed plenty powerful enough to kill paper.