When using Pyrodex, musket caps tighten groups.

[Flash Pan Dan]

In your original post you mentioned ”˜old TC hawken rifle’, is the #11 nipple as old as the rifle itself? I’m suggesting that a new #11 nipple might make a difference. I have a Zouave rifle that shot “ok” until I changed to a #11 nipple and caps and it shot lights out with that combo. Later on I tried again with a new musket nipple and caps and found that it shot well with that also. So it was the worn out nipple that made the difference not the components.

 

[Pacobillie]

To be fair to feyx0006, according to your first post, you changed the cap and the nipple, so you did change more than one variable. As I said in my previous post, this doesn't invalidate your results. It is also something I would try if I was having trouble with accurracy using Pyrodex and your experiment and what you learned, to me is well worthwhile.

Hard to switch to musket caps without also changing the nipple!! Although, in theory it can be done, the cap would move around quite a bit and most of the flame would be directed outside the nipple. Probably a good way to set the rifle stock on fire or burn one's hand!

 

[Pacobillie]

In your original post you mentioned ”˜old TC hawken rifle’, is the #11 nipple as old as the rifle itself? I’m suggesting that a new #11 nipple might make a difference. I have a Zouave rifle that shot “ok” until I changed to a #11 nipple and caps and it shot lights out with that combo. Later on I tried again with a new musket nipple and caps and found that it shot well with that also. So it was the worn out nipple that made the difference not the components.

The nipple was new and in good condition.

 

[necchi]

Ok, so it works, good for you.
Others folks experiance is different.
I've no dog in this game, but there's some things going on here.
As mentioned there are several variables here to consider.
* Musket caps aren't hotter. Same temp, just more volume.
* The fire chamber/channel needs to be clean and clear esp when changing from true bp to a sub.
(it's simple, the fouling properties are different)

Switching back-n-forth in a single shooting session or a single day makes it tuff to determine just what is the best set-up.

 

[William O.]

Here in California we only may have a total of 1 pound real BP.

All the more reason to leave, IMO.