Old black powder

[lonewolf465]

I scrounged up a pound of very old DuPont FFg black powder from a gunsmith buddy of mine. He has several pounds he purchased in the early '50s from a retiring smith. He claims the powder was probably manufactured in the '20s. Storage has always been proper and the product looks good. Should I have any concerns using this powder?? I got it for the great can it is in and the manila envelope the can was shipped in. By the way, this seems to be a great site. thanks in advance

 

[kenneth strickland]

The powder won't increase in power so if it was mine, I would try some light loads to start. Definitely save the can and wrapper to sell on ebay or display. I don't think you can legally sell bp but you can give to friends, family etc.

 

[sniper68]

Storage has always been proper and the product looks good. Should I have any concerns using this powder??

Black powder has an indefinate shelf life, if it looks like new, with no clumping, a sign of being wet or damp at one time, its still good as long as it's dry. I'm sure yours is probably as good as the day it was made.. :thumbsup:

 

[Swampman]

I'd shoot it.

 

I have de breeched many old barrels and found live powder. One night I dipsticked a percussion barrel, deemed it ok and started in. first aim it at a spot on the floor where your foot isnt, then apply heat to the plug and breech, Be Prepared! when it or if it goes off ,you can stand cool while your buddies are falling about laughing. unfortunately the old (behind the door) antiques dont show uo much anymore. Grandpa always kept it loaded .Bob

 

[musketman]

Addition to the powder, old empty powder cans are a sought after item by black powder hobbyist...

 

[J.D.]

Shoot the powder and put the cans in your collection.

Damp, clumpy powder can be dried in the oven.

Preheat the oven at the lowest possible temp.
spread the powder on aluminum foil placed on a cookie sheet, turn the oven OFF and place the powder, cookie sheet and all in the oven. Crack the oven door open an inch or so, and let 'er dry.

I have done this with old, clumpy powder several times and have not seen any difference in power between the dried powder and new powder.

MAKE SURE YOU TURN THE OVEN OFF BEFORE PUTTING POWDER IN.

Failure to do so can be injurious to your health.
J.D.

 

[lonewolf465]

Thanks for the info. The empty can is going to be displayed in my MAN CAVE. I have only been registered here for a couple of days but the info is great.

 

For God's sake, don't put gun powder in your oven. :shake:

Sun dry it if it is damp.

 

For God's sake, don't put gun powder in your oven. :shake:

Sun dry it if it is damp.

Awwww go ahead and dry it in the oven. You'll get a BANG out of the experience!!!

and your wife will love the new kitchen!!

:rotf: :youcrazy: :youcrazy: :youcrazy: :rotf:

Just kidding of course! The oven idea scares me too!