Swampstalker
New member
Howdy & Happy New 2017, Fellow Deplorables! (And a most sincere THANK YOU to each and all!)
I recently signed on to receive a precise reproduction of the Whitworth caplock, which as y'all know is the black powder, hexagonal paper-patched bullet launcher considered the first military sniper rifle, and ostensibly capable of reliably placing its projectile into at least a 12" diameter circle at 1000 yards. As you would expect, I'm itching to try this: I've ordered a .451 hex mould to accompany the rifle and am working hard to flatten my otherwise straight (up) learning curve regarding the construction of paper patched bullets. I'm planning on using the 99.9 percent pure lead available from a major supplier and I understand the theory of lead casting, but otherwise I have no idea exactly what I'm about to undertake. My questions is whether there is anyone out there who has experience with the .451 hex, paper patched bullet who can offer any useful tips or cautionary advice. (P.S. -- I believe I fully understand the Whitworth's downsides, specifically the issue of BP fouling which the hex bullet was designed to minimize, and I reckon I am prepared to deal with these.)
Many thanks again, and best wishes & regards!
I recently signed on to receive a precise reproduction of the Whitworth caplock, which as y'all know is the black powder, hexagonal paper-patched bullet launcher considered the first military sniper rifle, and ostensibly capable of reliably placing its projectile into at least a 12" diameter circle at 1000 yards. As you would expect, I'm itching to try this: I've ordered a .451 hex mould to accompany the rifle and am working hard to flatten my otherwise straight (up) learning curve regarding the construction of paper patched bullets. I'm planning on using the 99.9 percent pure lead available from a major supplier and I understand the theory of lead casting, but otherwise I have no idea exactly what I'm about to undertake. My questions is whether there is anyone out there who has experience with the .451 hex, paper patched bullet who can offer any useful tips or cautionary advice. (P.S. -- I believe I fully understand the Whitworth's downsides, specifically the issue of BP fouling which the hex bullet was designed to minimize, and I reckon I am prepared to deal with these.)
Many thanks again, and best wishes & regards!