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Gatofeo · March 20, 2011, 11:48 AM

I wouldn't work on smoothing the action much. See how the action settles in after at least 100 shots. Just learn the basics and enjoy it for now.

.457 balls will be fine with your revolver. You will find them very slightly more resistant to seat than a .451, of course, but as long as the ball is made of pure lead, or nearly so, the slightly larger diameter won't be a problem.

I use .454 and .457 balls in all my .44 cap and ball revolvers. The Ruger requires a ball of at least .457 inches. I've heard of some guys going to .460 inch.

From what I've observed, the slightly larger balls give a little edge in accuracy. Ignition seems to be better too. Because a larger ball will have a wider bearing band against the inner chamber walls, it's more resistant to movement from recoil, and provides a wider surface area for the rifling to grip.
See my sticky, "So You Want a Cap and Ball Revolver" for more information.

March 20, 2011, 11:48 AM	#23
Gatofeo Senior Member Join Date: October 1, 2004 Location: Remote Utah desert Posts: 224	I wouldn't work on smoothing the action much. See how the action settles in after at least 100 shots. Just learn the basics and enjoy it for now. .457 balls will be fine with your revolver. You will find them very slightly more resistant to seat than a .451, of course, but as long as the ball is made of pure lead, or nearly so, the slightly larger diameter won't be a problem. I use .454 and .457 balls in all my .44 cap and ball revolvers. The Ruger requires a ball of at least .457 inches. I've heard of some guys going to .460 inch. From what I've observed, the slightly larger balls give a little edge in accuracy. Ignition seems to be better too. Because a larger ball will have a wider bearing band against the inner chamber walls, it's more resistant to movement from recoil, and provides a wider surface area for the rifling to grip. See my sticky, "So You Want a Cap and Ball Revolver" for more information. __________________ "And lo, did I see an ugly cat. Smoke. Brimstone. Holes in parchment. And this ugly cat was much amused." --- The Prophesies of Gatodamus (1503 - 1566)