[nobody1369]

My long rifle burned patches today. Unfortunately my brain is out on loan or something so I guess I need help , ideas on possible causes.

[alsask]

Are you sure they are burned and not getting cut by the rifling? Lymans, if that is what you are shooting, have very sharp edges to the rifling when new and take about 100 rounds to smooth up.

If you still suspect burning you could try an over powder wad. Wasps nest works or even 1/2 square of toilet paper scrunched down on the powder before you ram home the ball. Some guys use a felt wad .

[BHP FAN]

a felt wad is less likely to set fire to the range...

[brushhippie]

If its burning the patches its loaded with too much powder...yes?

[KeithL]

A thicker patch might help. How much lube are you using? The patch might be to dry. To loose a weave in the fabric. There are several possibilities, as you can see. Good luck.

[TheRodDoc]

Using hard lead instead of pure lead can cause it. When the charge is ignited the ball must be able to expand into the rifle grooves. If lead is to hard it can't and hot gas leaks around the ball. Burning through the patch.

The Patch is really only to aid in loading the ball and to hold it in place till the charge is ignited. After that it would not be needed as long as the ball can deform as it is intended.

[mr16ga]

So what is the big deal if the gun shoots straight who cares if the patch is burned a little or is on fire (range officers don't like burning patches, with due cause.)

You might try a little thicker patch or a little bigger ball.

[Hanshi]

Two possibilities are a thicker patch or an over powder wad.

[loose noose]

A properly patched rb should have a perfect cross in black on the fired patch, I've noticed that the patch is usually 10-15 ft from the muzzle.;) Oh and BTW it's hornets nesting, not wasp nesting.