old blackpowder guns

[Mortblanc]

In do stand corrected on the bore size scales, I should have checked rather than relying n my memory.

The reason the military muskets of the BP era were considered not accurate was due to a couple of factors.

First, the muskets were not always bored true and the barrel bore did not line up with the big chunk of metal that served as both "sight" and bayonet lug.

Second, was training. The troops were trained for speed rather than accuracy. They were encouraged to ignore ignore aiming and turn their heads and close their eyes due to the flash and ignition cloud of the lock.

As for the loading of buck and ball. It has ben tested and found wanting. The multiple loading detracts from bot buckshot and solid ball, making both less accurate and useful than either alone.

I believe it was more a physiological thing than a combat effective thing. It sounds really grizzly but in reality is not.

---

I can also verify that is not effective in modern shot-shells either.

---

The most effective smoothbore musket loading is large buckshot inside the 50 yard mark.

Past 50 yards the greatest improvement to any musket would be the addition of a front/rear sight and a tight patch on the ball.