In which orientation should the flat side of the ball be when loading it into a muzzleloader?

When loading a ball into a muzzleloader, the flat side of the ball should be oriented facing up. This positioning helps to ensure that the ball is properly seated on top of the powder charge and creates a more effective seal in the barrel. If the flat side is down, there could be an improper fit that may lead to misfires or inconsistent performance due to inadequate compression of the powder. Additionally, having the flat side up facilitates easier loading and alignment with the rifling, which is essential for stabilizing the projectile as it travels down the barrel. Proper orientation, therefore, directly affects accuracy and reliability when firing the muzzleloader.