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T. O'Heir · October 6, 2018, 01:31 PM

I don't think any commercially available ML is an absolute copy of any vintage BP rifle. Other than Hawkens being 50 plus calibre and heavy things, I haven't looked that closely into it. I'd be wanting a Baker, but only because watch too much Sharpe on TV.
You need to decide on a budget and whether you want a flinter or a percussion lock. What period in history you're thinking will help there.
Anyway, I'd suggest you buy a copy of the Lyman BP Handbook and Reloading Guide. Tells you everything you need to know about shooting BP. Starting with it's used in grains by volume not mass like smokeless. Pretty good read too.

October 6, 2018, 01:31 PM	#11
T. O'Heir Senior Member Join Date: February 13, 2002 Location: Canada Posts: 12,453	I don't think any commercially available ML is an absolute copy of any vintage BP rifle. Other than Hawkens being 50 plus calibre and heavy things, I haven't looked that closely into it. I'd be wanting a Baker, but only because watch too much Sharpe on TV. You need to decide on a budget and whether you want a flinter or a percussion lock. What period in history you're thinking will help there. Anyway, I'd suggest you buy a copy of the Lyman BP Handbook and Reloading Guide. Tells you everything you need to know about shooting BP. Starting with it's used in grains by volume not mass like smokeless. Pretty good read too. __________________ Spelling and grammar count!