Eric said it well.  Everything about consistent accuracy is all about consistency of Everything - load components, the process of the load, the bbl and lock, and the brain and trigger finger of the shooter (which usually should be first in this short list).

I do 5 grain graduated load tests as well.

I'll throw my hat into the ring.

For working up a load, I think your 5-grain increments are perfectly reasonable to start. That'll get you into the "accuracy window" efficiently. Once you find a promising node - say it tightens up at 70 grains - then it can make sense to experiment in 2-3 grain tweaks if you're chasing a competition-level load. But most guns won't show enough difference to justify fussing in 1-grain steps.

Personally, my rule of thumb:

Hunting load development- 5 grain increments all day long.

Match tuning / paper punching- Find the node in 5s, then fine tune in 2-3s if the rifle seems sensitive.

And honestly? With black powder firearms, patch/ball fit and consistent loading technique usually matter more than 2 grains of powder either way.

Then again, you may not want to take advice from someone with the forum handle of "Second-rate Marksman"...

Quote from: Hank in WV on February 12, 2026, 06:15:55 PM

Before I got my eyes rebuilt last year, I tried shooting lefty to see if I could do any better. Very awkward. I pretty much gave up shooting at that point.

We'll....I don't plan on giving it up. I can't hit much anyway.
Shooting is fun, hitting the target is just a bonus.

THIS is what it's all about - the satisfying enjoyment of making the load, of getting out into nature, the camaraderie of like-minded friends, the boom & fire & smoke, and maybe once in awhile hitting the target is the cherry on the trad muzzleloading cake.    

YAY for Alexander Joseph! - another year notched on yer gunstock! Hope you have a "bang up" birthday!

YAY for smokepolepaul! - another year notched on yer gunstock! Hope you have a "bang up" birthday!