.54 TC barrel is rusted out. go to .58?

[MadScientist]

I put together a .54 TC Renegade kit when I was younger (18). 10 years later, I find that the barrel is well pitted and that the maxi balls I shoot keyhole like crazy. Can you safetly re-bore this to a .58 caliber?

 

[4V50 Gary]

Yes, but bear in mind that it should be proof fired. Don't overlook getting it relined as a .54 and Bobby Hoyt does good work. Finally, It may be more cost effective just to buy a new barrel.

Reboring was the old remedy when barrels were scarce and everything needed to be recycled. You may also consider trying a patched round ball. It won't reach as far as a Maxie, but can still deliver reasonable accuracy - especially if the twist is a slower 1-66" twist.