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In the muzzleloading world , marked caliber isn't always want you want to shoot.
For example :
A Colt '51 Navy is marked as a .36 caliber...but it takes a .375 round ball.
Below are some common calibers and round ball that I have found that works "best" in said caliber.
By "Best" , I mean what works in my guns or guns that I have shot...what works in your gun may differ...
For example :
I use a .15 patch with a .530 round ball in my .54 caliber Hawken
A .15 patch and a .535 round ball is way too tight , even with a short starter to get down the bore without a lot of force.
Also barrels will differ in their likes regarding the patch and ball combo even though they may be the same caliber or come from the same company.
Andy
For example :
A Colt '51 Navy is marked as a .36 caliber...but it takes a .375 round ball.
Below are some common calibers and round ball that I have found that works "best" in said caliber.
By "Best" , I mean what works in my guns or guns that I have shot...what works in your gun may differ...
Caliber ----- round ball
.31---------- .315 , .320 ( revolver )
.32---------- .310 , .315 ( rifle )
.36 --------- .375 , .380 ( revolver )
.36 --------- .350 ( rifle )
.40 --------- .390 , .395
.44--------- .433 ( rifle )
.44--------- .451 , .454 , .457 ( revolver )
.45--------- .440 , .445 ( rifle )
.45-------- .454 , ,457 ( Ruger Old Army Revolver )
.50 -------- .490 , .495
.54 -------- .526 , .530 , .535 ( .535 is a tight fit with most rifles )
.58 -------- .570 , .575
.62--------- .600 , 610 , .620 ( .620 is a tight fit with most rifles )
.69 -------- .680
.72_____ .710 , .715
.75 -------- .730 , .735
Please note that what patch thickness you use will also play a part in what ball size to use.For example :
I use a .15 patch with a .530 round ball in my .54 caliber Hawken
A .15 patch and a .535 round ball is way too tight , even with a short starter to get down the bore without a lot of force.
Also barrels will differ in their likes regarding the patch and ball combo even though they may be the same caliber or come from the same company.
Andy
Last Edited: