I have just aquired a T/C Black Diamond 45. Does anyone have a good starting point on a pyrodex powder/pellet charge and matching sabot for accuracy at 100+ yards? Thanks for any suggestions.

30WCF



There's a world of difference between last years model (1-20" twist) and this year's model (1-28" twist). Is the rifle new or used?

This is a new Black Diamond Super 45 XR with the 26" barrel. Have used a traditional caplock for the last 14 years with my maximum comfort range of 100 yards. Finally decided to try to increase my range a bit. I saw the Black Diamond Super 45 XR in the 2002 Thompson Center catalog. It states the Super 45 XR in a 26" barrel has a 1 in 20 twist. The super XR in 50 caliber, with 26" barrel, has a 1 in 28 twist as stated in this same catalog. Does the 2003 Super 45 XR have a new twist rate? Thanks again if you have any loads you can recommend. I have not fired this rifle and know alot of experimenting may be required. Thought I would start with the 180 grain XTP sabot with 150 grains of pyrodex pellets, but decided to tap the forum for any experience with this gun and or caliber. I am using this rifle for mule deer only, and hunt in areas often above timberline.

Take it back... you want the new 1-28" twist. Many shooters have complained about poor accuracy using the 1-20. That's why T/C changed to 1-28. Those that shot their rifles numerous times -- then complained when contacting T/C by phone-- each received a new 1-28" barrel.



If you return it to the store & they don't have a 1-28", look at their Knight Wolverine II 26" and the Winchester Apex 29" for about the same price. Both are good replacement guns. ... otherwise have the store special-order you a new Black Diamond XR. It only takes around 10 days to get it.

Trip - That's one thing nice about T/C: they take care of people very well.

Regard, sse

Triple se7en,
Thanks for the heads up. The gun I have turned out to be the 1 in 20 twist. I called T/C, they were surprised I had a new gun, just bought, with a tag on it marked: 1 in 20 twist. They recommended trying it, and if it doesn't produce accurate results they would take care of it. The dealer I got it from will trade it back for the Black Diamond XR in .50 caliber for a $10.00 fee, as it is still unfired. I'm leaning on trading it back for the .50, yet part of me thinks I should just return it and stick with the old caplock I'm used to and don't shoot past 100 yards. Thanks again for the info, I was unaware of the change in twists on the .45.

So T/C was surprised that a few new ones are still floating around out there.



I only have one problem with the Black Diamond. It has a longer than normal action that will not seal the 209 primer during wet weather.



You can obtain better waterproofing features by putting your BD rifle credit into the Knight, Winchester or A & H.



All 4 of these rifles will shoot accurately with the right powder & bullet combination out to 175 yards. I use my side-hammers when I'm huntin' the thickets -- use the Omega for ridges & open fields/corners.



Good luck...