New to the Game

[MCoop]

I’m pretty new to the game and had this rifle given to me.  I had to adjust the trigger to make it safe, but other than that it functions great, I can shoot 1.5” groups at 50 yds.  I was so confident with it that I shot a deer with it this year. 
My question is,  can anyone give me any background on this rifle just from looking at it ?  Is it mass produced or custom. 
It is a 50cal and on the inside of the Lock plate it says Dixie.  I’m assuming that means Dixie Gun Works. 
That is about all I know about this rifle. 
Any input you may have is appreciated.

[No Powder]

Hey MCoop, I'm sorry I can't help with the rifle identification. But I can tell you that's a fine looking rifle and buck. The late flintlock season here in PA starts on Dec. 26, and I sure would like a buck like that to come visit me and my smokepole. Would you share with us what components you are using to obtain those 1.5" groups. By the way, welcome aboard.

[MCoop]

Absolutely !
I’m using the rifle shown. 50cal Flintlock with a 39” octagonal barrel.
Im shooting Hornady .490 ball with a .010 ticking lubed patch and 80 grains on Goex 1F main charge and Goex 4F in the pan. 
I only used the 1F Goex because that is what I had and it obviously worked.  I have since acquired some 2F Schutzen but I don’t know if I want to change my combo.  I guess it can’t hurt to try. 
To acquire the 1.5” group I am shooting from a bench with a good rest to put the rifle on.
From what I’ve been told, 1F isn’t what I should be using, but it worked and believe it or not, this is the first combo I tried in this rifle.  Beginners luck I guess.

As for the buck, I wasn’t looking for a buck when I went out.  I was looking for a big doe or spike for my first deer with a muzzleloader but when he walked out right behind a big doe (right at 50yds), well, there was no decision to be made.  I took him. 
I hadn’t felt that excited about taking a shot in a long time. 
I can’t say that I won’t still use modern rifles, but I am hooked on this Traditional Muzzleloader stuff. 
I guess the stars aligned just right for me and muzzleloading.

[rollingb]

You'll find that the 2F powder will burn cleaner than the 1F, and is more precise when measuring because of it's finer granules. 

Nice buck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   

[No Powder]

Good advice from rollingb. And you'll find a load using other granulations that will shoot as well or even better. Although 1.5" at 50 ain't too shabby. But that's a good excuse to hit the range, make some smoke, and experiment. Good luck.

[Butler Ford 40]

Nice work!!! Rifle looks as good as it seems to shoot!