Billnpatti said:
Some folks use a caliber as large as .40 for squirrels but I am of the opinion that .32 is ideal and .36 is quite workable. In either case, I would restrict my shots to head shots. A muzzleloader, even a .32, will tear up a lot of meat when you make a body shot....if you hit either the shoulders or the hind legs. I guess, if you used very light loads and restrict your shots to head shots you could use a .45 or larger but, if you can afford it, a .32 with an A weight barrel will be your best bet. I am afraid that a barrel that will fit your T/C that is chambered for a .32 will have so much metal in it, that it will be like carrying a barbell through the woods. You might also consider a fowler for your squirrel gun. Again, this assumes that you happen to have the price of a new gun in your pocket.
These are just the opinions of an old fart so take them for what they are worth to you. :haha:
I met a guy at the range where I shoot, who built an experimental .22 Cal. black powder rifle. He was testing loads. He used several projectiles, including some 40 grain lead bullets pulled from some cheap .22LR ammo. I didn't get his name, but I wish I had. He was getting near 1" groups @ 25 yards of of bags, and it was his very first outing with the gun.
Anyway, that would be a fun squirrel gun. That brings up a question, if you'll pardon my lack of information. Until that experimental .22 Cal. is out on the market and affordable, what smoothbore caliber (gauge) would you suggest for squirrel? I know a guy who shoots a .62 Cal. smoothbore with round balls, and seems to do OK. Can you set up a fowling piece to shoot round balls OR lead shot with fair accuracy?