Woohoo. Finally got to take some shots with a12-Bore rifle. It was more than I expected in some ways, but a disappointment in others.

First 2 shots were with 134gr blackpowder in a 2-7/8" case (750gr bullet). Recoil was reasonable, less than expected. Blame too much anticipation.

Then my friend whipped out the full-size cases. Those he'd loaded with 160gr, which still required 2 cork and 1 cardboard wad. Recoil with this was a real kick in the ass. Especially off the bench.

I asked if he intended to load all the way up to 189gr. He said no chance. I told him if he could get there safely I'd volunteer to pull the trigger. For those I'll be standing.

Now for the disappointment: Mossberg really created an abomination of a rifle. What kind of twit puts a 24" ported barrel on a rifle chambered for something as antique as a 12-bore? The rifle is extremely light considering the cartridge, and it's hammerless. Then I learned this same setup is available in 30-06, 270, 223 etc.

Anyone here hankering for one of those? I know if were in the market for a single shot, modern cartridge rifle, it would be a Ruger #1.

I’m still working on my friend to develop loads all the way up to max. If I can convince him I may have to take a few days for recovery, but I’ll post the experience asap.

It was a good weekend. The very definition of "Recoil Therapy."

Gonzo,

I can't figure out which mossberg you are referring to here, could you enlighten me on that please?

Thanks!

Mark,

Poked around on Google a bit and couldn't find a model name. There were some hits on a bolt action, but nothing on a break-open single shot. Here's a picture of the rifle.




And just for fun, a cartridge comparison picture. Left to right: 458WinMag, 160gr load, 134gr load, 750gr bullet.






That's all I have right now. If I find out more I'll post again. I'll also try to get some better pictures.

Mossberg's singleshots are the SSi One line. Offered in a few chamberings from .223 to .30-06 with ported and non-ported rifled 12 gauge barrels. What about accuracy? I have not tried full bore bullets (except for paper-patched) in my USH and have been lead to believe that shallow rifling is not very good for bare lead. my 20 tops out about at 160 grain black, and that feels pretty stout pushing a 900 grain paper patch bullet. I have hollow-pointed them to 700 grains and my initial test showed 1450fps with black. When i can figure out how to post without relying on "Quick Reply", i will get more photos and such, i don't want to hijack the post; it is nice to see others experimenting, hope he keeps it safe.

45,

Accuracy has not been measure on paper. We did our shooting at a 12" gong at 100 yards. The biggest problem is fouling: the barrel needs a couple patches every two shots.

The 12-bore should max out at 189gr. The 160gr load in the bigger case needed two cork and one card wad. I plan to get my friend loading upwards from 160gr in safe increments. I'll do all the shooting, or at least I will once he's had enough. I figure it's a waste of money if you don't see how far the beast will go.

The recoil between 134 and 160gr was substantial. Can't wait to see what another 29gr will do.

Thanks for the responses. Any advice is always welcome, especially tips to reduce fouling.

Regarding fouling, are the bullets lubed? Also, if they are cast try heat treating wheelweight bullets.

Just to be specific, you are talking about lead fouling aren't you?

I'm extremely interested in this as I've been thinking about experimenting in this same area for my deer slug gun.

If powder fouling is an issue, try adding a lube cookie to the wad column. Ross Seyfried would put SPG lube between two wads on all his BP loads. If lead fouling is an issue, i would try paper patching. I would think that even tracing paper would help. I had my moulds made a little oversized just for patching.

Oops, that is a little undersized. I really need to resolve this issue i have with the long reply form as i am using quick reply entirely.

The problem is powder fouling. I'll bring up lube cookies to my friend. I think he expected not to need one due to the two cork and one card wads.

So far lead doesn't seem to be a problem. There is a ton of lube, you can see it in the pictures, taking up all the space around the pointed nose of the bullet.

BTW: the pic of the gun in action is the 134gr load. With the 160gr load the forend rises about 3" from the sand bag.

Recoil sure can be an issue LOL

Not to hijack, but here is a pic of my brothers Savage, I put a brake on one end and a pachmayr 990 recoil pad on the other end. They both really help!

We are doing a 12GA FH on a Sav 210 bolt, with
heavy barrel and heavy stock. The SS1 is a nice
little gun, but it would be great with a heavy barrel and weighted butt stock.I really like the looks of the SS1, but needs weight.Ed,

I have not chronographed any, but I find duplex loads clean up the powder fouling a good bit on my 20; don't know why i haven't tried it before. Heavy barrels do good too, and I just weighted my butt stock the other day. I actually like the balance better and it does make a difference in the recoil.

BTW, how do those SS1 barrels attach? Do accessory barrels have to be factory fitted?