Black Powder Accurancy & Trajectories

[DeadEyeDick]

Hi

I am looking for a source which will give me some info on accurancy & trajectories of original loads for such as .44-40, .45-70.

I know they can pull in 2 to 3 inch groups at 100 yards and want to know what they can achieve at 200, 300 & 400. What a maximum effective range might be.

Are there any tables or books which would give this information for both rifles & pistols?

Thanks in advance.

[Hares Ear]

This is a bit of a minefield.
I have shot with the Quigley Association at Diggle Ranges. Using .45 calibre black powder rifles, they were hitting 1 foot knock downs at 400 yds with open sights.
It seemed to me that B.P. accuracy is even more of a dark art than modern nitro centrefire. Not only is powder weight, seating depth and bullet tension a factor. So is the quality and consistancy of bullet lubricant, and the method of barrel wiping. Some of then even had barrels fitted by custom rifle makers.
There are a few articles here.
Black Powder Nuts

[edbear2]

this may interest

Not scientific, but impressive!