I�m new to the world of flintlocks having purchased a TC 50 caliber Pennsylvania Hunter flintlock about a year ago. The rifle shoots really well (about 2-3� @50 yards) with TC MaxiHunters, Hornaday Great Plains and even Power Belts. My problem develops when I shoot it, get it sighted in ready for hunting, then have to clean it. I follow the practice of pulling the barrel, cleaning with hot soapy water, drying thoroughly and reassembling. I�m very careful not to bump the front or rear sights. Back out to the range and have to sight it in again so it is never reliable just to take hunting after being cleaned. Often shoots nearly a foot off target?

What do others do for cleaning? Pull the barrel? Clean with the black powder solvents while it is assembled etc? I also try to assemble the barrel and pin carefully trying to install it the same every time.

Any advice would be appreciated�.hunting season just around the corner.

Thanks
Paul