3F powder vs. 2F in .54cal flintlock rifle

[Frontiersman]

I have been using 2F powder in my .54cal flintlock rifles (T/C Hawken, Lyman GPR and my new Kibler Woodsrunner) for 30yrs. I did this because, this was always recommended in rifles over .50cal . My understanding for this was, because 3F powder created very high breech pressures. I'm told that modern steel barrels can handle the pressures. The upside being, you can use less 3F powder to get the same velocity as 2F and thereby save money. On the downside, I'm wondering if the 3F produces more kick or a lot more kick. Anyone have any experience or knowledge of this?

 

[Kevin]

3F seems to have a sharper kick, for the same velocity, or maybe just my imagination.

 

[The Crisco Kid]

I've used both and if there's any difference in felt recoil it's not much. If you're using 80 gr FF, 70gr FFF feels about the same.

 

[kyron4]

I find that 3F leaves less/smaller fouling compared to 2F. Also flows better in a patent breach rifle. All my guns are 50 cal.

 

[RiverRat]

I use 3f in all my bp guns from my 36 cal colt revolvers up to my 10 gauge New England Fowler. I never blew up a gun and I like to keep things simple.