I would shoot the gun. If you use black powder and clean the gun thoroughly it should be fine. I own a Lancaster flintlock rifle that I built using a Jim Chambers kit. I shoot it every so often and occasionally hunt with it during BP deer season. I also own a Pendersoli Hawken BP rifle that I use more often because it is shorter and easier to maneuver in the woods. They are both 50 caliber so the balls can be used in either gun. I have a 50 caliber Rapine bullet mold that I carry in my possibles bag and hand cast all of my balls.
There is real satisfaction in taking a deer with a ball that you cast yourself.
