Might this help

[No Powder]

Last flintlock I purchased had been rode hard and put away wet. Bore isn't real bad, but not real good. Accuracy is sufficient for deer hunting. But still, I think it could shoot tighter groups. Thinking about trying several things. Bigsmoke mentioned pressure blow by in Winter Hawks situation. Being my bore is not in perfect condition, I'm wondering if I could be dealing with the same thing. I know there are different things I could do to correct that, if that's the problem. I would like to try loading a fired patch on top of the powder before loading the prb. I generally pick up my patches at the range, so I've got a lot of them. This would be the cheapest solution if it helps. Has anyone ever used old patches on top of the powder? I know I could use wads, thicker patches, larger balls and other things, but cheap is the key word. Appreciate any opinions and suggestions.

[doggoner]

I purchased a "rode hard and put up wet" 50 cal. I used the leather from a discarded recliner and a harbor freight 1/2 inch punch  and the results were amazing. I had some bear grease and lubed the patches will it. Used them over the powder and went from peach basket groups to under 2 inch groups. YMMV. Good luck.

doggoner