Manual

43
the muzzle end. Use care to ensure that the barrel is not marred in the pro-
cess of clamping it. Be equally certain that it is clamped securely.
Thread a T/C Ball & Bullet Puller of the proper caliber onto your ramrod
and slip the ramrod into the bore until the screw on the puller contacts the
projectile. Rotate the ramrod slowly clock wise as you tap lightly on the end of
the ramrod with a hammer. As the puller screw bites deeper and deeper into
the soft lead projectile, the ramrod will become difficult to turn and it will
require the use of pliers. Pad the jaws of the pliers so that you do not mar the
ramrod. Once the puller screw has embedded itself firmly into the projectile,
pull out on the ramrod and extract the ball or bullet. In actuality, this process
is somewhat tedious and it will require your patience. When working with a
badly fouled bore, the puller screw may pull free from the projectile several
times before you can successfully extract the projectile. If you are persistent,
you will succeed!
After the projectile has been removed from the bore, clean the bore, bar-
rel and parts as explained in the “Cleaning” section and reassemble the fire-
arm.
If for any reason you are unable to remove the charge in the manner rec-
ommended, soak the barrel in very hot water for one-half hour. Once the pow-
der has been rendered inert, take the barrel to a qualified gunsmith. Explain
the condition and ask that he clear the barrel.
Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc.,
Farmington Road,
Rochester, New Hampshire 03867