Just starting up with cap & ball and a second-hand Remmy .44 revolver. I've given the cylinders a good scrubbing out with Hoppe's and dried them out with several dry patches.

Would you experienced guys first fire off a cap on each unloaded cylinder, to burn off any residue, before loading up for real?

Yes

Short, sweet and much appreciated.

Thanks

U R Welcome

Yes. And not just for that. It also clears the hole through which the flash will pass AND exposes any problems that you might have with ignition...watch the muzzle to see the spark string...such as a flattened nipple or hammer face.

Easier to sort out before the chamber is loaded than afterwards!

quote:

Would you experienced guys first fire off a cap on each unloaded cylinder, to burn off any residue, before loading up for real?

Absolutely!!