variations in patch thickness

[JohnnyO]

I finally got a micrometer and tested some pre-cut patches...I got two brands...both .015 pre-cut .50cal patches

One measured .015 and compressed to about .011
The other measured .012 and compressed to about .008

I bet that would cause a variation in how the gun shoots. I think I will find a supplier of fabric and cut my own. :surrender:

 

[bingo1952]

I always take a micrometer or a caliper with me to the fabric store when buying patch material. I prefer to make my own rather than purchasing and trusting to blind faith they are going to be what the label says. A variation that large is at the very least going to cause a POI shift and at worst will blow your group as well. As a plus if you cut at the muzzle you get a perfectly centered patch every time.

 

JohnnyO,

Can you please name brands pard.

Jay

 

[JohnnyO]

The one that measured a good .015 was "Bridgers Best" and I can't remember what site I ordered these from.
The patch that measured out to be smaller, I am not quite sure...I think they were from the possible shop, which means they could have been eastern maine or ox-yoke....EM sounds more likely as I have a "sample cleaning cloth" from eastern maine that came with the order

For fun I just returned from sportsman's warehouse with some .018 blue stripe pillow ticking patches of the 'Muzzleloader Originals' brand to measure...a good .018, compression feels a bit different with the tight weave of the ticking, good resistance at .015 and can go to .014 without feeling like it's too much pressure for a decent reading

 

[Le Grand]

I've been having real good luck with Bridgers Best. Now those are being destributed by www.thegunworks.com.

 

[Blizzard of '93]

do you use spit-patch or some type of rubbed-in lube?
overpowder felts?
small variations in loads do make a difference.

 

[longcruise]

I think I will find a supplier of fabric and cut my own.

That's a good solution. It broadens your selection and assures your own quality control.

Some shooters, I among them, feel that prelubed patches could deteriorate over time as a result of the lube causing decompostion. There is no evidence of it that I know of but just a thought that it could be possible.