I wonder if any testing has actually been performed?
Theoretically, a cap lock with a mainspring strength igniting a properly sized cap on a cone with the proper sized hole bored through it should have minimal is any pressure lost back through the cap as the hammer fall after ignition holds the cap in place in effect sealing it. In reality as springs, hammers and cones wear and passages foul things do change. I spent years competing with ML rifle muskets and know full well the effects weak main springs, worn hammers and flame cut cones and filthy ignition channels have on accuracy.
Additionally I wonder about the pressure difference between a ML and a breech loaded crimped cartridge with equal powder loads, wadding and payloads. Theoretically the crimp will cause a minor and temporary increase in chamber pressure as the crimp unfolds but wonder if this is enough of a reality to make any difference in pressure, velocity or pattern.
Dave Myrick
