After shooting a black powder gun there is some burned powder residue inside the barrel. If you shoot multiple times without running a cleaning patch in the barrel you will feel it gets harder to load the next ball. This is because with each shot additional burned powder collects and causes additional friction when loading the next ball. This same friction effects how the ball leaves the barrel when shot.
The solutions to this problem is running either a dry patch or slightly damp patch with a cleaning jag in between each shot. Remember to do whichever method the same way every time. The goal is not to have a clean bore, but it is to have the same amount of fowling in the bore for each shot.
From a safety standpoint running a damp cleaning patch down the barrel between shots is a good idea. If there happened to be a hot ember in the bore from the previous shot, this could cause the next powder load to ignite when it’s poured down the barrel. This is another reason why you measure out the powder and never pour powder directly from a powder horn into the gun.
I choose to use a slightly damp cleaning patch between shots. Always use the same amount and type of cleaning solution to stay consistent. This can be tricky, so some shooters choose to use a dry patch so they don’t have to worry about how damp the patch is each time. I feel that the damp cloth will ensure the barrel is safe to put the next charge down, so I just try to slightly dampen.
Some shooters keep their cleaning patches in a separate container and pour alcohol on the patches till they are all damp. Using alcohol has the advantage that it evaporates quickly after swabbing the bore, and the next load of powder will not stick to the damp bore.
Another thing to consider is how you run the patch. I started by going up and down with short strokes like I was cleaning the gun. Much harder to be consistent with this method. So now I run the patch straight down to the breach, and straight up out the muzzle. Then I flip the patch over and do it again. That’s my method and it works for me.
Once you pick a method, stay with it, and do it the same way between every shot. Remember Tip #1 – Consistency.
