Description
Hornady Lead Balls .50 Black Powder Lead Balls 177 Gr, 100 PK is exactly what it sounds like: a 100-count package of pure, swaged lead round balls designed for .50 caliber muzzleloading firearms. Each ball weighs 177 grains and is ready to load for target shooting or hunting. They’re a classic, reliable projectile from one of the most trusted names in ammunition. I’ve loaded and shot my fair share of these over the years, and they provide consistent performance that makes range day predictable and productive.
Key Features
- Pure Swaged Lead: Made from soft, pure lead for optimal obturation (sealing) in the bore, which is critical for accuracy and safety in black powder firearms.
- Consistent 177-Grain Weight: Each ball is precisely manufactured to 177 grains, ensuring uniform velocity and point of impact shot after shot.
- Pre-Lubricated & Ready: These balls come pre-lubricated, which simplifies your loading process and helps reduce fouling in the barrel.
- Hornady Quality: Backed by Hornady’s reputation for precision manufacturing and stringent quality control.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .50 |
| Projectile Type | Round Ball |
| Projectile Weight | 177 Grains |
| Material | Pure Lead |
| Count | 100 per package |
| Lubrication | Pre-Lubricated |
Look, the specs tell the story. A .50 caliber round ball is the standard for a huge range of traditional and inline muzzleloaders. The 177-grain weight is a sweet spot, offering a good balance of velocity and retained energy. The pre-lubrication is a small but welcome touch—it means one less step at the loading bench and helps keep your barrel in better shape during a long shooting session. At a price of $12.14 for a pack of 100, you’re looking at a very cost-effective way to feed your smoke pole, especially compared to many modern sabot options.
Who This Is For
This product is for the traditionalist or the practical shooter. It’s perfect for owners of .50 caliber cap-and-ball revolvers like the Pietta or Uberti 1858 Remington replicas, where they are drop-in ready with the appropriate wad. They’re also the go-to for traditional sidelock rifle shooters and hunters who prefer the classic round ball performance. If you run a Thompson/Center Hawken, Lyman Great Plains Rifle, or a similar .50 caliber percussion rifle, these are your bread and butter. They’re also ideal for new muzzleloader owners looking for an affordable, no-fuss projectile to learn with.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The consistency is the biggest win. Hornady’s swaging process creates incredibly uniform spheres, which translates directly to better groups. The pure lead construction seals the bore perfectly with less risk of a dangerous pressure spike. They’re simple, historically accurate, and incredibly affordable per shot. You can’t beat the convenience of a pre-lubed, ready-to-load ball.
Cons: Round balls have a lower ballistic coefficient than modern conical bullets or saboted projectiles, so they shed velocity and energy faster at longer ranges. For hunting, ensure your state’s regulations permit round balls for the game you’re pursuing, as some have minimum weight requirements that might favor heavier conicals. That said, within their effective range—typically inside 75-100 yards for most shooters—they are absolutely lethal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What patch thickness should I use with these .50 caliber balls?
A: You’ll typically want a pure cotton or lubed canvas patch between .010″ and .020″ thick. The right thickness creates a tight seal when loading but shouldn’t require excessive force. Start with a .015″ patch and a moderate charge, then experiment to see what combination gives you the best accuracy in your specific rifle.
Q: Can I use these in a modern inline muzzleloader with a 209 primer?
A: Yes, but with a major caveat. They are designed for use with black powder or approved black powder substitutes like Pyrodex or Triple Seven. You must use them with a proper cloth or lubed patch, as most inline barrels have a faster twist rate designed for sabots. They may not stabilize as well as a conical, so test for accuracy at distance. Never use smokeless powder.
Q: Are these suitable for hunting deer in Missouri?
A: For Missouri’s muzzleloader season, yes, these .50 caliber, 177-grain round balls are a legal and effective choice for whitetail deer within reasonable ranges. Proper shot placement is always paramount. I’d recommend keeping shots inside 75 yards for maximum ethical effectiveness. Always check the most current Missouri Department of Conservation regulations before your hunt.
If you’re stocking up for the season or just want to keep the tradition alive at the range, these Hornady Lead Balls are a reliable, no-nonsense choice. They are available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide where compliant. Grab a pack or two and keep your powder dry.
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