HOW TO SHOOT. 41 



After scrutinizing the barrels sufficiently, and finding 

 them all right, put the parts together again. Draw 

 out the ramrod from the pipes, and, letting both ends 

 into the barrel, ascertain the length of the chamber. 

 Then replacing the rod, put the caps on the nipples, 

 and see that they are neither too tight nor too loose. 

 When about two thirds on, they should tighten well, 

 though not quite enough to open a seam in them. 

 This is essential, that the nipples may be kept dry, 

 and the gun be sure to discharge. Do not force the 

 barrels in replacing them, but let them, as it were, find 

 their own place ; for, if you force them, you will 

 show a joint at the top, where it meets the false 

 breech. Next ram into each chamber some oiled 

 tow, and, bringing the gun each time to the shoulder, 

 snap the caps, so as to become used to the force of 

 the" locks and their mode of working. Now load 

 both barrels with a fair charge of powder only, and, 

 taking aim at some object, fire away. This will give 

 you confidence, and you will begin to feel acquainted 

 with your friend after hearing his voice. In firing, 

 throw the gun to the shoulder, letting the eyes run 

 along the barrels, and bringing the sight as close as 

 possible to the object ; then pull the trigger with a 

 cap on. Always remember to drive in an oiled wad 

 before using the caps, as the fulminating powder cor- 

 rodes the chambers of the gun. After drawing the 

 wads, load with light powder, and fire as soon as the 

 object comes within range of the barrels. 



Next, load with a drachm or so of powder, putting 

 into each barrel about an half-ounce of shot. Take 



