Thanks for the info and pics.
As I said I'm a novice so what are "Treso nipples" and where might one find them?
And will these nipples make a significant difference?
From the Possibles Shop website:
TRESO nipples are made from AMPCO, a tough alloy with a tensile strength of 118,000 psi, which is tougher than most steels used in muzzleloading barrels. This material provides more resistance to repeated blows from the hammer, and the high thermal conductivity of Ampco alloy affects a faster heat dissipation. This dissipation reduces erosion of the small base hole and assures a longer lasting nipple. All nipples have a small base hole (.028”) to greatly reduce the amount of escaping powder gases. Many muzzle loading experts feel an added benefit of the small base hole is the hot gases from the percussion cap are more concentrated and uniformly directed against the powder chamber. Ues # 11 caps. Cap & Ball Nipples have a .174" shoulder size.
All of my C&Bs that I use for fun and competition have Treso Nipples on them. I've found that #10 Remington caps work best on them - regardless of what the description says.
FM