[georgeduz]

i have a colt made 1851 navy ,the barrel is not crowned,does a crowned barrel shoot better.or does it just protect the rifling.i was always told the crown was inportant for rifle barrels.

[oldtrooper]

The crown mainly protects the edge of the rifling from dings which would really effect accuracy. The face of the barrel on some rifles are flat but have a recessed crown for the same purpose.

[Thefabulousfink]

I have heard that crowning a barrel effects the way that gas is released behind the bullet. However, not being a gunsmith, I couldn't tell you how much that effects accuracy on muzzle loaders, pistols, or roundball. I do know that many target shooters deem them essential on their rifles.

If there are any ballistic experts out there mabey they could explain a little better.