.50 or .54

blackpowder jim · #8 07-24-2009, 07:23 PM

you made a great choice with the greatplains.i would buy the kit and brown all the furnature and barrel.i have done several kits and it's not hard at all,just takeyour time..50or.54 both good choices.i prefer the .50 it shoots a 190gr.ball the .54 a 240 gr. cap lock or flint lock is also another choice. rate of twist makes a big differance in blackpower. 1/48 and lower for conicals.1/48 and higher for round ball. 1/60 1/66 1/70 1/72 is the norm. good luck on your blackpowder shooting.if you need any help when putting together your rifle please contact me. keep your powder dry.

mfwing82 · #9 08-07-2009, 09:05 AM

This is the 54 great plains rifle I just put together . I treated the metal with a vinegar etch which is very easy to do with a unique finish

mfwing82 · #10 08-07-2009, 09:20 AM

rsells · #11 09-03-2009, 04:04 AM

I have used both 50 cal and 54 cal muzzleloading rifles for target and deer hunting, and like the 54 better. You can keep the velocity up and still do not encounter as much drop as you do with bores of 58 and larger. I couldn't tell much difference between the 50 cal rifles I have used as compared to the 54 when I look at the point of impact out to 125 yards, but I feel the 54 hurts the critter more than the 50. I only use patched round balls and do not take shots unless I judge the yardage 125 yards or less. I worked up a good load for my 54 and have used it to hunt squirrels while doing my AMM requirements and camp outs. Just have to hit the guys in the head and all is well!
Roger Sells