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How to load a BP shotgun

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13 September 2008, 02:15
RobinB
How to load a BP shotgun
When I turned 21 my folks gave me a SxS BP shotgun. I'm now > 50 and still haven't shot it.

Where can I find instruction on how to load it, what loads to use etc.

Thanks
13 September 2008, 08:03
craigster
Is it a muzzleloader?
13 September 2008, 23:15
RobinB
Yes, a 12 ga muzzeloader. Percussion caps. It dates back to around 1850. When my folks got it, the owner was busy "restoring" it and had made a complete mess of the finish. They took it to a very reputable firearm manufacturer who re-did the entire thing and gave it a clean bill of health.
14 September 2008, 07:16
craigster
These are loads that I use in a CVA 12ga SxS percussion muzzle loader.

Start low and work up.

Light load, 1 oz shot plus measuring device filled with same volume of ffg black powder.

Field load, 1 1/2 oz shot plus same volume of powder.

Heavy load, 1 1/4 oz shot plus same volume of powder.

Then, an over powder wad, a filler wad, the shot charge, and finally the over shot wad. Seat each wad firmly, don't pound down. Cap and fire.

More info here:

http://www.dixiegunworks.com/faq.php#q20

Have fun!