I'm in the process of converting over to the dark arts and in rapid learning mode. I have my pistol and rifle loads down. Using DD big lube bullets with SPG. Absolutly perfect and no issues there.
However, I'm having a "challenge in discovery" with my shot shell. Heres what I have. TTN 12 guage model 1878 coach gun. I'm assuming no choke at all. I have magtech brass. I was given about a 1/2 case of pryodex RS. (Yeah I know, not really the real stuff, but its cheep, as in free) I've loaded a square load, using my Lee shot Dipper set at 1 1/8 oz for pryodex RS ( gauged out about 82 grains on my muzzler loader powder charger) 11 gauge Circle fly over powder wad, followed by a grease with bore butter 11 guage fiber wad from circle fly, 1 1/8 7 1/2 shot, 11 guage over shot card, and a tad of elmers white glue, and polished off by a very slight crimp in an RCBS 12 guage die. I get a lot of smoke, but was disappointed in that I didnt get the bang I was expecting, the recoil is anemic, and I cant seam to knock over the shot gun knock downs.
Heres what I suspect. I'm getting a lot of pressure release around the wads, or the pressure is blowing through the wads and scattering the shot, or both. I havnt had the opportunite to shot pattern it, but I suspect the pattern is something like a big donut. I've read a lot about using AA wads, but dont want to scrub lots of plastic out of the barrel. and read about making my own shot cups. I've had recommendations on using less powder, more powder, heavier shot, etc. So I'm open.....
Any suggestions?