Patching

[Stiles/Akin]

The central Georgian. (Sandersville, Ga.) 1847-1874, June 19, 1861, Image 2

 

[Jobe Holiday]

Very true! Those of us who also participate in primitive matches (1640-1840) can tell you with confidence how accurate a patched round ball is when fired from a smoothbore. In fact, a new class of arms for these events are known as "Smooth Rifles". These appear to be regular Kentucky Rifles with sights, but are smooth bored, and they are historically correct, too.

Most interesting to see the news clipping from June 19, 1861 encouraging the use of shotguns with patched round balls! Thank you for sharing it.
J.