Thanks for your responses Vlad and kuduae, appreciated.
(late reply, been away from computer for a few days)
I regret not buying Speed's "...Sporting Rifles" book when it was readily available, both times! Might have to bite the bullet and grab one anyway.
When the rifle arrives in my hands I will try your recommended method kuduae, but will probably slug the bore as well for interest.
Sounds like I am worrying too much, though!
Will keep you all updated with results from the firing line when it gets here.
Cheers