CartridgeKits - .50 Caliber Cartridge Former Basic Kit - Essential Tools Included - CK-50BASIC

The CartridgeKits Basic .50 Caliber Cartridge Former Kit redefines how you think about reloading in the field. In a real hunting scenario, the need for a second shot usually comes in a high-adrenaline moment—whether you're following up on a successful hit or reacting quickly after a missed opportunity. This kit is built to make that crucial reload faster, smoother, and more reliable when every second counts.

This kit includes everything you need to start forming reliable, consistent muzzleloader cartridges. This kit comes complete with a precision two-piece knob and block tailored specifically for .50 caliber applications. It also includes a marked powder measure to ensure accurate powder height, along with a convenient funnel for easy, mess-free loading.

Creating a paper cartridge solution for the popular .50 caliber inline muzzleloader brought unique challenges—and innovations. To ensure fast, seamless loading, CartridgeKits engineered a dramatically sloped cartridge body, resulting in a long, slim design that drops easily into the barrel with no resistance. While slightly more involved to form than our other kits, the performance in the field makes the extra effort well worth it.

Most modern inline shooters use saboted slugs, which are already a snug fit in the bore. Adding a paper wrap tightens that fit slightly, so it's important to sight in using the same paper cartridges you plan to hunt with. They load without difficulty, but consistency matters when it’s time to make the shot.

For those casting their own bullets or moving away from sabots, this kit works seamlessly with lead conicals and roundballs. No wad is needed—paper sides provide effective gas sealing. If you notice black streaks (a sign of gas cutting), a second layer of paper can help. As always, we recommend lubing conical bullets. While the powder charge is enclosed within the cartridge, the benefits of a softening lube layer remain—especially when using black powder substitutes like Triple Seven. Cleaner fouling means easier follow-up shots and less barrel maintenance.

Paper cartridges can be tricky in traditional sidelocks. The ignition spark often isn’t hot enough to fully ignite the paper without a little help. Be sure to prick the cartridge base and allow a bit of powder to settle into the breech. Once lit, the rest of the cartridge will burn reliably. Always test your procedure before heading into the field to ensure dependable performance.

Standard .490 swaged roundballs (e.g., from Hornady) work well with paper cartridges. In sidelocks with 1:66 twist rates, paper wrapping may even improve spin and consistency compared to traditional cloth patches. While formal accuracy tests, anecdotal results suggest the paper wrap can enhance stability. Adjust the number of paper layers based on your bore fit and any signs of gas blow-by.