I will admit the .430" ball may be a little too small for best accuracy. I'm actually having pretty good results with the .433" ball and .018" patch. It loads moderately easy without using a starter. The barrel is a Colerain barrel with radius groove rifling. I do have one of the Joe Wood coning tools that I haven't used on this gun yet, but may in the future. A slightly thicker patch which holds more lube has worked well for me in the past, giving 15 to 40 shots or more without swabbing the bore. I am not finished accuracy testing, but no longer feel the pressure to always get the absolute tops in performance all the time. After spending many years shooting on Army/National Guard rifle and pistol teams, civilian rifle, pistol, shotgun, tactical, etc., and the attendant attacks of "Accuracy Anxiety", now it is nice to have the attitude that "It Ain't Just Good, IT'S GOOD ENOUGH!" sometimes and just relax and have fun. And as far as hunting accuracy goes, if a good and conscientious shooter stays within the limits of his equipment and ability, a lot of game can still be brought to bag.