Just getting started

[hpolloni]

I just got my muzzleloader and I'm hooked! I got a CVA Optima V2.

I shoot hornady sst 250gr .45cal. I also shoot Traditions plinkers and I couldn't tell any major accuracy difference (probably because I only shoot them at less than 25yds). Both with white hots.

It looks like the plinkers are just lead and I was wondering if it's possible to cast your own bullets. I was thinking in two options:
* Getting a Lee .44cal mold and get .44 sabots [1]
* Or, get a 50cal mold and shoot without a sabot [2]

Thanks!

[1] https://www.muzzle-loaders.com/bullets/hornady-50-caliber-sabots-44-45-caliber-bullets-pack-50.html
[2] https://www.muzzle-loaders.com/lyman-508656-single-cavity-minie-ball-bullet-mold-50-caliber-395-grain-508-diameter.html

[Smokeploe]

I use a lee REAL bullet just lube and stuff easy to start. In my Kentucky long accurate out to 150 yards, that is me not the rifle. I use between 55 to 90 grains pyrodec RS.
The molds come in different weights pick the one you want and use pure lead, cast and have fun. Also get a round ball and some pillow ticking great plinking fun cans, clays and water filled milk jugs. The more you shoot the better you are and know what the rifle and you can do. Also get the Lyman Blackpowder book, good reading and lots of great in

Keep powder dry
And HAVE FUN
Smokeploe

[hpolloni]

Thanks for the quick reply! My concern is that I'm shooting a modern inline ML with a twist rate of 1:28 (CVA optima). Have you tried shooting some REAL bullet out of a modern inline?

[Smokeploe]

My rifle is a 1:66 twist rate mainly for patch and ball. But the 325 real bullet will shoot very good in it.  In your rifle with the faster twist it should do very good in it.  Ball and patch need 1:58 or 1:66 twist but with light loads it might do ok.  Nothing to lose trying them.  If you find some start with a 50 gr load and work up till you get good accuracy. 
Cap locks are more fun,  if you know someone who has one in your area try shooting one verses inline. I shot the Kentucky and a English fowler, 12 ga. SxS a real blast and more ways than one
Smokeploe

[hunterofelk]

I tried muzzleloader elk hunting last October. Had a great camping trip.  Nice time of year. After a day hunting in the on/off rain showers, my TC Hawken failed to fire when I tried it at camp that evening. So, my opinion, muzzleloaders are fun to shoot, but I am going to hunt in Montana with my modern rifles.

[hpolloni]

Thanks. I will take a look at the REAL .50 cal