Historically Accurate — Smoothbore & Early Rifled Arms

Musket balls are the classic projectile of the smoothbore musket — round lead shot cast and finished much as they were in the 17th–19th centuries. Traditionally wrapped in a linen patch or paper, the ball and patch formed a gas seal that engaged rifling (when present) and kept the projectile centered in the bore. Without a patch the ball could bounce and exit the barrel unpredictably, which is one reason smoothbore muskets were comparatively imprecise.

Our musket balls are hand-cast in steel molds using lead poured and trimmed in the historic manner. They’re produced to nominal diameters commonly used in the Fur Trade and muzzleloader eras — and are suitable for period smoothbores as well as many rifles that were re-bored or rifled later.

Common nominal sizes we make (historical reference):

• .600" — used with .62 rifles and 20-gauge fur-trade patterns

• .662" — French Charleville pattern (for .69 nominal barrels)

• .690" / .730" — sizes associated with British Brown Bess (.75 nominal barrel)

• Also available in a range from .30–.75 caliber to match most smoothbore and early rifled arms.

Load & Accuracy Guidance:

• Ball diameter alone doesn’t ensure accuracy — patch thickness, patch material, lubricant, powder charge, rate of twist, and rifling depth must all be matched to your barrel.

• A useful starting point for many muskets is a ball .015"–.020" under bore diameter with a compressed patch just thick enough to engage grooves. Deeper rifling usually needs a thicker patch.

• Example: for a .50 cal bore, try .49" balls, then test .495", and refine from there. Test at the range and develop loads specific to your firearm for best results.

Product Details:

• Material: Lead (hand-cast)

• Production: Poured into steel molds, sprue trimmed by hand

• Finish: Trimmed and lightly dressed; slight variations common due to handcrafted process

• Quantity options: Sold by the dozen, 50s, 100s, or custom quantities (contact us for bulk or special orders)

• Shipping: Some sizes are cast to order. If you need balls for an upcoming event, please notify us at purchase so we can prioritize production where possible.

Safety & Legal Notes:

• These are lead projectiles. Handle with care: wash hands after handling, keep away from children and food preparation areas, and follow all local health guidance regarding lead.

• Laws on possession, transport, and use of lead shot and muzzleloading firearms vary — confirm local and event regulations before purchasing or using lead musket balls.

• For ranges or hunting areas that prohibit lead, consider using approved alternatives where required.