I've recently received my 4 single back from Marvin Huey's shop and have been testing loads with a vengance the past few weeks, so I thought I'd share the results and a few pictures with my friends at nitroexpress as there seems to be quite a few of us bore rifle aficionados here.

Kade Giles at Huey's restored and recovered the case (which was damaged) and did an amazing job. I'm impressed to say the least and greatly admire his skill. He's highy recommended in my book!

With a grand total of 17 rounds fired this month, my results were as follows:

2000gn conical, Goex:
8dm Fg 838fps
10dm Fg 962fps
12dm Fg 1079fps

8dm FFg 945fps
10dmFFG 1048fps

70gn Blue Dot 1068fps

1580gn round ball, Goex

8dm Fg 1020fps

2133gn conical, Goex

8dm Fg 796fps
10dm Fg 905fps

8dm FFg 920fps
10dm FFg 1020fps
14dm FFg 1196fps

Admittedly the sample size is extremely small and there are a few gaps due to chrono errors, so I have some retesting to do , plus intend to add data (gradually!!). My goal is to plot out what each powder, charge and bullet produces in order to see if the 'bang for the buck' is worth it with heavy loads, and to come up with a light practice load. All loads use shotgun primers (Fed209a) in turned brass cases with a thick over powder card and lubed felt wads. Based on the amount of cardboard confetti on the snow today I'm going to double up the over powder cards in the future. I want to use the RB for light loads and the 2000gn conical (.800" meplate) if I ever take it hunting.

The rifle is a 16.5lb 27" T. Bland, with 11 grooves and ~1:100" twist. I believe it is an 1890's gun (thin brass and top lever) but wasn't recorded on the ledger until 1935! Still piecing together the history. I would love to hear any advice, info, stories, etc from other big bore fanatics.

Bob