How do you unload a bullet from the barrel of a 50cal Hawkins?

Answer 1

Assuming you cannot unload the round by firing it at a safe backdrop, you use an attachment to your ramrod or cleaning rod called a worm. The worm resembles a screw. It drills into the lead of the bullet and allows you to draw it out of the muzzle. Take care since the firearm is still charged.

Answer 2

IF the rifle is loaded, and the bullet is fully seated against the powder, the best way is to fire it. You probably knew that, huh? The real problem comes when it cannot be fired- because the powder charge was not put in at the proper time (happens to everyone sooner or later- me included)

If the rifle has no powder charge, there are a couple of ways to proceed. Some will advise trickling a small powder charge in after removing the nipple- I do not suggest this due to potential obstructed bore disaster IF the bullet is not firmly seated on the powder.

There is a tool called a bullet puller- looks like a coarse thread wood screw, attaches to end of ramrod, screw into bullet, then SMOOTHLY pull the bullet out with the ramrod. If this does not work (and it won't work with a jacketed bullet in a sabot) then there is a device called a CO2 bullet puller- clamps over the nipple, uses a 12 gram CO2 cartridge to PUSH the bullet out of the barrel. These are on line, as well as well stocked gun shops, etc.

In desperation, one person used a grease gun- he removed the nipple, replaced it with a grease fitting, attached a grease gun, and started pumping. If the grease fitting will fit, this WILL work- but leaves you with a barrel full of grease to clean out.