I read (on Chuckhawks) that Triple 7 generates more pressure than the same volume of black powder. Is this true? If it is, I want to downsize my load so that my pressures line up with the manufacturer's recommendations. From what I recall from the owner's manual, it suggests that 90 grains is probably the optimum upper limit for this rifle. So I'll be happy with 75 - 80 grains. If I can find some of the 30 grain pellets locally, I'll use those with the 50s.

Is it possible to safely cut the .50 caliber pellets in half or do they just crumble ? Thanks!

Why not just use loose powder and find the load that is most accurate with your rifle / bullet combination.

My reading tells me the same thing, but I doubt it’s a problem within standard load ranges. That 90gr optimal charge is probably more about accuracy than danger. 80-90gr has been my load in numerous sidelocks. Beyond that, some projectiles or sabot loads may not shoot as accurately, and fouling may build up faster as well.

Pretty sure I remember reading a warning about cutting pellets. I wouldn’t do it. Use loose.

I'll do that if I can't find 30 grain pellets locally. Or if the pellets don't ignite as well as loose.

Also, I've got a couple of adapters that let me use #209 and (large, I think) rifle primers. Any word on whether using those instead if percussion caps raises pressures significantly?

And before I forget, Happy New Year, everyone!

Know of anyone who might have parts for a MLS-50 or a MLSS-50? I understand that these were made for Marlin by Thompson Center and are essentially the same gun as the Black Diamond except for the trigger/safety group which Marlin calls a "fire control assembly". Have a WTB in the classifieds but no responses as of yet.