need quick response to question

[Encoreman]

Hi guys, Need some advice. I have a chance to buy an Encore 209X45 muzzleloading barrel. I have always used .50 cal, but am told a .45 caliber will give you longer range. This barrel is priced pretty cheap. Thank Mac

 

[jbkebert]

The only problem you may run into is that .45 cal muzzle loader bullets/sabots or harder to find. At least in my neck of the woods even .50 become sparse after season. The .45 are few and far between so may need to be ordered. My Encore pro-hunter 209x50 will hold a 3" group at 200 yards and I would not take a shot any furthure or much furthur than that. So depending on price probably a good deal. A new one runs $400+ you may gain a hair of accuracy but will possibly inherite some problems.

 

[Curator]

.45 caliber sabots are difficult to find and your choices may be limited. However, with the .45 you have a much greater assortment of full bore diameter bullets from 200 grains to almost 500 grains. If your twist rate is 1 in 22" or less you should be able to duplicate the range and accuracy of the venerable .45-70 cartridge.

 

[Underclocked]

Make sure to run a tight patch through the bore to see if you notice any washboarding. Some of the TC .45 barrels, in particular some of the 1:20 twist stainless barrels, had such problems - and wouldn't shoot worth spit. I got lucky in that the first Encore I ever bought had such a barrel. It was replaced with a 1:28 twist barrel that was MUCH better.

Many blamed the 1:20 twist for the inaccuracy of those barrels. I didn't. 1:20 twist .45 caliber barrels will shoot great IF they are good barrels.