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how are good are round balls? what kind of powder is best? whats the range of this weapon 150 or 200yrds? do you have to take the lock off every time you clean? or just the barrel? what rod do i get to replace the wood one? what sabot work with this weapon? will roundballs kill deer?
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Round balls are an excellent bullet They are quite capable of a humane kill on almost any game animal in North America. As always, with any firearm, shot placement is the most important parameter.
Round ball ranges are generally 100 yards or less as they have a poor ballistic coefficient. However, up to that range they are often the best bullet for the task. The New Englander can deliver conical rounds as well, however, and they can be effective well over 200 yards. More definitive data on range would require more specific data about the bullet and it's ballistic coefficient. Sabot choices are like candy bars - some you like and some you don't, a personal choice.
'Best' powder is often a subjective question. I personally like real black powder, brand names Goex, Swiss, Shuetzen and KIK. Pyrodex is the most popular synthetic powder, with 777 having a good following as well.
The lock only needs to be removed and cleaned on a quarterly or semiannual basis, depending on frequency of use.
Brass and stainless steel are the two most popular rod materials to replace wood. Fiberglass is also used often, but many feel it tends to damage the muzzle crown. You can get a muzzle crown protector for the rod, and it is recommended.