But they did understand and use precisely measured cards.Capt. Jas. said:When so used I would probably agree of wadding top and bottom but not with precisely measured cards and cushion wads.
Thomas Page,1767, discussing various wads:
"FRIENDLY
And what sort of wadding do you best approve of? I have heard some say that tow is best, others, cards stamped to fit the size of the bore.
AIMWELL
Tow, I think, is uncertain. If cards be used, the end of your rammer must be almost as broad as your barrel will admit of, to go down free, and quite flat at the end, to prevent the card from turning; and must be push'd down gradually, to give time for the air to pass, otherwise it will be troublesome. This is therefore not the quickest way."
Spence