Manual

100 YARD VELOCITY

One hundred yard velocity was derived from ballistic coefficient figures. A spot check to

verify mathematical and actual downrange bullet velocities was conducted using an Oehler

35P Proof chronograph with Skyscreens. Computed and actual downrange velocities were

quite close.

ENERGY

Energy figures were computed using the Newtonian formula, the only formula accepted

by all ammo companies.

TRAJECTORY

Trajectory figures were derived mathematically with spot checks by shooting randomly

selected loads at downrange targets. Trajectory figures are close approximations. Bullet drop

will vary with elevation at various shooting sites.

The shooter is urged to by-step all problems by sighting his big-game muzzleloader with

big-game load for 100 yards as a good short cut to success. Sighted dead on at 100 yards, the

normal big-game loads will shoot “flat” enough to allow a maximum range of about 125 yards.

While practiced and gifted marksmen may shoot much farther with muzzleloaders, the 125

yard limit remains a good one for most of us under most hunting situations It’s an ethical

distance to shoot at deer-sized game. Some hunters may prefer getting closer to larger-than-

deer big game, such as elk.

ACCURACY

All rifles were fired from the bench. The group shown is the smallest three-shot group for

three trials (nine shots total). Obviously, accuracy will vary from shooter to shooter, as well as

firearm to firearm, especially under varying shooting conditions such as wind and tempera-

ture.

NOTE: All conicals were introduced to the bore with the base of the projectile perpendicular to

the bore, not slanted. If any conical got started downbore “on the bias,” that load was fired into

the butts, and not at the target.

S. PRACTICAL USE OF BALLISTIC DATA

THE POWDER CHARGES

All range work was accomplished with FFg blackpowder. Pyrodex RS loaded to the

same volume will produce similar results. The loads included on the following tables will serve

as a reference point when working up a hunting load for the shooter’s particular rifle. Vary

charges at five grain increments to find the load that produces the best accuracy in a given

gun. Be careful not to exceed the manufacturer’s maximum recommended powder charge.

Consult the warranty book or call the manufacturer to verify maximum charge.

MUZZLE VELOCITY

Measured in feet per second, this number gives the speed of the projectile (bullet or

round ball) as it leaves the barrel.