I'm looking at a Pedersolli Sharps in 50/70. A local shop has one and is willing to hold it for me for a few days while I decide if I want it or not. I really like the gun, and I have a buddy with one in 45/70. He can't stop raving about it. I have been lusting after his for a while now. I was originally looking for one in 45/90 or 45/120 (I don't know why, just because I wanted something different), but the 50/70 really got me thinking. It seems well balanced and well made (the barrel is massive!). I already have a win 1886 and a Buffalo Classic, both in 45/70, so I want something different.

My questions are for those that shoot the 50/70, and the Pedersolli. What is the twist rate on the barrel? My buddy's 45/70 Pedersolli is a 1:18" twist, is the 50/70 the same? Along with that question, what bullet weights are you guys shooting, and what does the Pedersolli specifically like for accuracy? I don't remember Lyman making a 50 cal rifle mold (?), so whose molds are you shooting and in what weights/profiles?

I don't intend to shoot smokeless out of it (even though the barrel is massive like a tractor axle, it just wouldn't feel right). I would like to know if you guys are shooting substitute powders like Pyrodex, or 777 with success, and what loads for 50/70? Real black powder is VERY hard to get around here now! I would REALLY like to shoot a substitute just so I can avoid the hassles of finding powder. Are you using magnum primers? And are you using BP lube like SPG with Pyrodex (P or RS?) (what I'm thinking of doing)?

Any "sweet" loads for accuracy? I think I'm taking this to long range 1000 yard type events, once I get the load and the practice down.

Thanks in advance for any help. I will probably have more questions as I think of them.