Manual

When checking the data you will note that many blackpowder guns are capable of out-

standing accuracy. Many of the groups registered are in the one-inch class measuring 1.0 to

1.25 with some guns even yielding groups under an inch. Outstanding! Also note: All shooting

in this manual was done with open sights. Scoped rifle tests that were conducted lead to the

conclusion that the average group at 50 yards shown on the following tables could be dupli-

cated at 100 yards by mounting a scope on the test gun.

TRAJECTORY SIGHT-IN INFORMATION

The blackpowder shooter should shoot his first shots from 13 paces from the target

aiming for the center of the bull's-eye. Shooting from twenty-five yards the shooter consults

the table to determine the impact point, on the target. In the case of the .50 caliber CVA St.

Louis Hawken / 300 grain CVA Buckslayer™ bullet combination, the table shows +1 in the 25

yard column under trajectory sight in information. The shooter’s point of aim should be the

center of the bull's-eye using sight adjustment information in the preceding chapter. When the

gun/bullet combination is zeroed into that point, back up to 50 yards, consult the 50 yard

column. Taking aim at the center of the bull's-eye, the 50 yard point of impact should be 2-1/2

inches above the center of the bull's-eye. The group from 100 yards should be close to the

bull's eye. Shoot from the 100 yard position, making sight adjustment until the group centers

on the bull's-eye.

Finally, check the point of impact at 50 yards to find what the actual high point is in the

rifle’s 100-yard trajectory. Remember, these tables serve only as a point of reference. There is

no substitute for actual range work. The benefits of actual sight in will include practical under-

standing of the rifle, the satisfaction of knowing what the rifle can do with you behind it and

pure enjoyment of target shooting.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE "FOULING" SHOT FOR CONICAL BULLETS

What is the fouling shot? Why is it so important to accurate blackpowder shooting?

How do I easily produce a fouling shot? These are some of the most often asked ques-

tions regarding the fouling shot. Knowing the answers can make the difference between

mediocre performance and tack driving accuracy when shooting pure lead conical bullets

(not sabots!).

The fouling shot is the first shot fired from a clean barrel - and the least accurate! The

accuracy potential of a barrel is actually improved by the presence of some powder resi-

due called "fouling." On subsequent shots, this residue will create a tighter seal between

the barrel and the projectile, thereby improving accuracy. Therefore, whether shooting

conical bullets on the range or in the field, you should never use your first shot. Instead,

count on your second, third and fourth shots to be the most accurate. After the fourth shot,

clean the barrel with a clean patch and light solvent and then continue your shooting.

Following this procedure will assure that you are always using the most accurate shots

that your rifle can deliver.

There is also an easy way to "foul" the barrel without actually firing a bullet. Just load

your gun with 80 grains of powder followed only by a cleaning patch. Point the gun in a

safe direction, place a percussion cap on the nipple and fire the gun. Your barrel will now

be fouled and you'll be ready to make your best shot at that trophy.

Give the fouling shot a try the next time you are out on the range. You'll see tighter

groups and learn to appreciate what a "fouled barrel" can do to improve your shooting!