It went past crew served I think. The gun referred to was built by a fellow named Billinghurst during the heyday of the National Rifle Club. He had a lad hired as gun handler. Primary duties related to transport between vehicle and line and then the juggling act between loading and shooting etc. I misspoke on one point, that particular gun used a 1800 grain bullet as I recall. It was .69 caliber on the bore.

Crow, I haven't blooded any of these beasts, probably won't unless we get invaded by armed Yankees again. They are a lot like having 25 wives I imagine.

Anyone having interest in deeper investigation on the topic of muzzle loader shooting sports needs a copy of Ned Roberts' book, "The Muzzle-Loading Cap Lock Rifle" by Stackpole Books. Available from Amazon. It is a remarkable trove of historical information/photos and tech from that era.

I am..........disturbed.

Concerning the difference between man and the jackass: some observers hold that there isn't any. But this wrongs the jackass. -Twain