Author Topic: 1861 Springfield rifled musket (made by Colt)  (Read 820 times)

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Offline glshop20

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1861 Springfield rifled musket (made by Colt)
« on: January 06, 2009, 05:18:19 AM »
I recently picked up a real nice 1861 rifled musket made by colt.  I used some 360gr. minnie balls given to me by the seller with 60grs. FFG and spg lube.  Accuracy at fifty yards was not great.  The rear sight requiers some work that I will do, but ity would not group at all.  The sight was not moving.

The minnie balls were not as snug to the bore as I would expect.  Loaded very easy.  Any suggestions on loads, components etc. would be appreciated.

Offline filmokentucky

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Re: 1861 Springfield rifled musket (made by Colt)
« Reply #1 on: January 06, 2009, 07:44:19 PM »
I've found that my Springfield likes the Civil War era Minie, which is a lot heavier than what you have been using. I like the 560 grain Minie best, but there is a 500 grain bullet available that is good in some rifles. Your 60 grain powder charge is equal to the standard military load and has always worked well for me. The most important thing is to use enough powder to expand the skirt on the Minie--without this your rounds will tend to keyhole and miss your target altogether. Some like load much lighter for target work, maybe down to 45 grains or so. It's worth trying if you are so inclined and will certainly save on powder costs. Always be sure the projectile is firmly seated on the powder.
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Offline glshop20

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Re: 1861 Springfield rifled musket (made by Colt)
« Reply #2 on: January 07, 2009, 06:16:48 AM »
Thanks for the reply.  I will try your suggestions