1858 Loads

[BlackRock52]

I have 2 steel 1858 Remingtons -- both .44 -- both Pietta's. The "Owner's Manual" that came with them says use a load of FFFG 12-15 Grains (Weight? Volume? - manual does not say). I also have a paper cartridge kit (readily available) that includes a powder measure that delivers 44 Grains by volume. Internet research says 20-30 grains with 25 grains as likely the best for accuracy.....
So to say a bit confused is an understatement

 

[TFoley]

It is generally agreed that between 25 - 30gr is good for a .44cal shooting ball. Measurement with BP is usually by volume.

 

[BlackRock52]

That's my understanding. Don't know why Pietta "Manual" gives such different numbers unless:
misprint
translation goof up
lawyers
something else
maybe BP is hotter in Italy (sarc)

 

[APG]

According to the Pietta owners manual it's 12-15 grains of FFFg recommended and up to 35 grains of FFFg maximum. It's a pretty big difference. I use around 20-25 myself.

 

[Maven]

Maybe Pietta was giving load data for brass as well as steel framed revolvers?

 

[Nobade]

Lawyers. Pedersoli loads are usually way too light as well.

 

[stubshaft]

My Pietta shoots best with 30 grains of 3F and a .454 ball.

 

[TNGhost]

According to the Pietta owners manual it's 12-15 grains of FFFg recommended and up to 35 grains of FFFg maximum. It's a pretty big difference. I use around 20-25 myself.

That is rather confusing the way they lay it out. Normally you see suggested "starting" grains as a single number and not a range and not, with a separate chart for maximum. Lyman's Black Powder Handbook and the writings of Sam Fadala have always been my go-tos for load information

But what do I know? I use 4f in my revolvers.

Also, I was taught long ago that black powder was always a volumetric measure and have seen that repeated in many texts on shooting with it.

 

[Johnny Tremain]

I was using 35gr of holy black.
Then I found out that 777 give you more bang for my buck. I now use 30gr of it.
With 30gr you can fit a wad, which is highly recommended.

 

[Gtrubicon]

I shoot 30 gn 3f in my 58, but 25 gn pyro p is better.

 

[D Yager]

I like 4f as well, it wakes up the gun.

 

[SDSmlf]

But what do I know? I use 4f in my revolvers.

There you go, trying to knock the earth off of its axis. Don’t we already have a sufficient number of problems here to work on and solve? But 4F is a nice option, particularly for the shorter barreled revolvers.

 

[D Yager]

It works well in longer barrels too. I want to at least cause a minor earthquake.

 

[SDSmlf]

Let’s wait for @Britsmoothy to check in.

 

[Britsmoothy]

Let’s wait for @Britsmoothy to check in.

Nothing to add here, others have seen the light. My work is complete

 

[AlexB]

You can fit 40 under a ball no issue in a Pietta and 35 under a kerr conical.
That's a pretty hot load of t7 but it works fine however it has made two retaining clips fall off the barrel.