Thompson Center Round Balls Review

Let’s Dive into Thompson Center Round Balls

The Thompson Center Round Balls are a staple for any muzzleloader enthusiast, particularly those who appreciate the tradition and challenge of using patched round balls. Thompson Center, a renowned name in the world of black powder firearms and accessories, offers these precision-swaged pure lead balls specifically for hunters and shooters who prefer, or are legally required, to use them. These round balls promise superior accuracy when paired with the right patch and lubricant, making them an essential component for a successful muzzleloading experience.

I’ve always been drawn to the historical aspects of shooting, and muzzleloading, with its inherent challenges and connection to the past, is a particular passion. The move towards more modern projectiles in muzzleloaders had me yearning for the simpler experience. I wanted to recapture the traditional challenge of achieving pinpoint accuracy with round balls.

Upon receiving the box of Thompson Center Round Balls, I was immediately impressed by the consistent size and smooth finish of each ball. They felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in their performance. The pure lead composition hinted at the potential for excellent expansion upon impact, a crucial factor for ethical hunting.

Compared to modern sabots and conical bullets, the Thompson Center Round Balls offer a distinct advantage in terms of historical authenticity and simplicity. Some shooters opt for pre-lubricated bullets from brands like Hornady. However, I wanted the traditional experience and control. The Thompson Center Round Balls gave me that. My initial excitement stemmed from the prospect of achieving exceptional accuracy and terminal performance with such a classic projectile.

Real-World Testing: Putting Thompson Center Round Balls to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, specifically designed for muzzleloaders. I used my .50 caliber Thompson Center Hawken rifle, along with Thompson Center Natural Lube 1000 Plus Bore Butter and .018″ thick cotton patches. The day was moderately humid, with a slight breeze.

The Thompson Center Round Balls loaded smoothly and consistently with the lubricated patches. Achieving a tight fit, but not overly so, was easy. The balls seated firmly on the powder charge with minimal effort. The accuracy was immediately apparent. I quickly settled into consistent 2-inch groups at 50 yards. There were no misfires or other issues encountered during the first shooting session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Thompson Center Round Balls have consistently performed reliably. I’ve used them in various weather conditions. This includes everything from hot and dry summer days to cold and damp autumn afternoons. They have proven to be remarkably stable, exhibiting minimal change in accuracy or loading characteristics.

I’ve noticed no signs of significant wear or deformation during storage or loading. Cleaning my rifle after using the Thompson Center Round Balls has been straightforward. There is minimal lead fouling in the bore, especially when using the Thompson Center Natural Lube 1000 Plus Bore Butter. Compared to my previous experiences with other projectiles, the Thompson Center Round Balls are among the most consistently accurate and reliable options I’ve used.

Breaking Down the Features of Thompson Center Round Balls

Specifications

The Thompson Center Round Balls are specifically designed for .50 caliber muzzleloaders. The Manufacturer is Thompson Center. They boast a .490″ diameter.

Each ball is made of pure lead, precision swaged for consistent weight and shape. Each ball weighs in at approximately 175 grains. They are packaged in boxes of 100. These specifications are important because they ensure a tight fit in the bore. They also maximize energy transfer upon impact, and contribute to the overall accuracy and reliability of the projectile.

Performance & Functionality

The Thompson Center Round Balls excel in their intended role. They offer exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. They are simple to load and use with appropriate patching. Their pure lead construction ensures reliable expansion upon impact, making them effective for hunting.

The main strengths are their accuracy, reliability, and consistent loading characteristics. A potential weakness, inherent to all round balls, is their lower ballistic coefficient compared to modern bullets. This results in reduced range and increased wind drift. They more than meet my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Thompson Center Round Balls are simple in design, reflecting their traditional purpose. The build quality is excellent, with each ball exhibiting a smooth and consistent surface. They are easy to handle and load with lubricated patches.

The lack of a complicated design means there’s virtually no learning curve. Novice muzzleloader shooters should pick these up quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

Being made of pure lead, the Thompson Center Round Balls are inherently durable during storage and handling. They are not prone to corrosion or degradation under normal conditions. Minimal maintenance is required, other than ensuring they are stored in a dry environment.

Since they are consumable ammunition, there are no repairs to consider.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Thompson Center Round Balls themselves do not require any specific accessories beyond patches and lubricant. The Thompson Center Natural Lube 1000 Plus Bore Butter is highly recommended for optimal performance. The choice of patch thickness and material can be considered a form of customization.

Thicker patches provide a tighter seal and can improve accuracy in some rifles. While the Thompson Center Round Balls are designed for use in Thompson Center muzzleloaders, they are compatible with any .50 caliber muzzleloader designed for patched round balls.

Pros and Cons of Thompson Center Round Balls

Who Should Buy Thompson Center Round Balls?

The Thompson Center Round Balls are perfect for hunters seeking an authentic and challenging muzzleloading experience, especially where regulations mandate the use of round balls. They are also well-suited for recreational shooters who appreciate the historical aspect of black powder firearms and want to test their skill with a traditional projectile. These round balls are ideal for those who value accuracy, reliability, and a simple, time-tested design.

Those seeking maximum range and ballistic performance should skip this product in favor of modern saboted bullets or conical projectiles. Shooters who prefer the convenience of pre-lubricated projectiles may also find the separate patching process of round balls to be cumbersome.

A must-have accessory is the Thompson Center Natural Lube 1000 Plus Bore Butter. A good quality powder measure and short starter are also recommended for consistent and accurate loading.

Conclusion on Thompson Center Round Balls

The Thompson Center Round Balls are a testament to the enduring effectiveness of a simple and well-executed design. They offer exceptional accuracy and reliable performance. These traits make them an excellent choice for hunters and recreational shooters who appreciate the tradition of muzzleloading.

At $33.95 per box of 100, the price is justified by the quality and consistency of the product. The value lies in the accuracy and ethical performance they provide.

I would personally recommend the Thompson Center Round Balls to anyone seeking an authentic and challenging muzzleloading experience. They are a fundamental component for achieving success and satisfaction with a black powder rifle. Equip yourself with the Thompson Center Round Balls, load up, and experience the thrill of traditional muzzleloading for yourself.