My weekly newbie question.

[OmgFathead]

So how do I know that the conicals and round balls I'm finding are actual CW artifacts and not just modern muzzle loading projectiles? As a hunter I have a drawer full of modern round balls and conicals ranging from .32 to .58. Are the CW projectiles a larger caliber or would they fall in the same range? Please excuse my ignorance for it seems that I have a bad case of permanent cerebral flatulence.

 

Amazon Forum Fav 👍

DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector, Waterproof Gold Detector, Pinpoint & Terrain Modes, Professional Metal Detector - Grab it through Amazon!

[Dick Stout]

First, let me say I am not comfortable answering your questions, but I do not do any relic hunting. At least I haven't for many years. I just want to say that you should never feel bad for asking questions. Everyone starts from scratch in anything they do, and there are no stupid questions. That's how one learns.

I feel certain you will get some good answers here to your question. Good luck and keep asking questions. One day you will be the one answering them. Trust me..

Dick
www.Stoutstandards.com

 

[Dick Stout]

"but I do not do any relic hunting".........

Wow, can't believe I wrote that...excuse my very poor grammar. Should have read "because I am not a relic hunter"

Dick
www.stoutstandards.com

 

[Old Town]

Truthfully there is no way to tell if any bullet you found was from the Civil War. People usually use the CW to date bullets of that era. These bullets are mostly of the muzzleloading variety as there were few cartridge guns used from 1861-65.

It would take too long to describe all the differences between cartridge-loaded bullets and muzzleloading bullets. Same goes for discussions involving calibers and how they developed over time. (got smaller)

Suffice to say not many of the bullets you see passed off as CW bullets ever got fired in anger. For years before and after the war people continued to use the wartime rifles and handguns.

OT

 

[Swartzie]

You could post a picture in the "What Is It?" forum http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/board,14.0.html. Someone over there should have a pretty good idea what something dates to. One thing I have noticed: older lead has a nice brown or whitish patina on it. Modern lead will still be pretty grey.

-Swartzie

 

[Monty]

I agree on two things. Never hesitate to ask and use the what is it forum. I shoot modern lead muzzle loading bullets as well as sabots and whatever I have on hand. Round balls are almost impossible to id unless there is some history of the area where found to verify. Several of the guys and gals ( Breezie ) would be glad to help. Be sure to include several views and measure and weigh them if possible. Monty