Priming powder for flintlock

[formernuke]

I plan on using pyrodex rs for my main powder. Problem is I can't get 4f black powder for the priming pan. Will pyrodex p work just as well?

 

[snakebit]

I plan on using pyrodex rs for my main powder. Problem is I can't get 4f black powder for the priming pan. Will pyrodex p work just as well?

Typically no. You would need to use real black powder for best results.

 

[Banjoman]

Nope. Just order some 2f or 3f real black from someplace like Graf and Sons. Use same powder for prime. You’ll be glad you did. I was in the same spot once that you are now. Trying to use black powder substitutes will just cause frustration.

 

[formernuke]

Will 2f or 3f work for priming powder?

 

[stubshaft]

Most definitely.

 

[rchas]

Get a can of 3f. If you want to save on black powder, you can load 10 grains of 3f with the remainder of the charge pyrodex, and use the 3f for priming as well.

 

[formernuke]

I can get 2f, not sure of 3f no 4f available.

 

[Banjoman]

Will 2f or 3f work for priming powder?

Yes. I use 2f (real black) for main charge and prime and I also use 3f for main charge and prime since I have both.


Don’t worry about not having 4f.





(Unless you’re shooting smooth bores in the England)

 

[formernuke]

Nope. Just order some 2f or 3f real black from someplace like Graf and Sons. Use same powder for prime. You’ll be glad you did. I was in the same spot once that you are now. Trying to use black powder substitutes will just cause frustration.

Why? What's wrong with pyrodex?

 

[BoomStick]

Pyrodex will be difficult to ignite in a flintlock. Anything other than real black powder for main charge and prime will give you trouble. I know some shooters use a duplex load, but I don't need to make things more complicated and I'm already carrying enough stuff.

 

[tenngun]

Why? What's wrong with pyrodex?

our op dex was made to be sold in stores with out the risk of black powder. Black has to be kept in a safe in a public store. The ignition for black powder is about 350f
Pyrodex is almost twice as high. I hot cap sets it off with no problem, but the flash in the pan just isn’t high enough
That’s why the duplex load is recommended

 

[kyron4]

Why? What's wrong with pyrodex?

Here's another example, skip to 9:00, 14:00, and 17:25 minute mark to see results. He's using it in the pan as well as main charge.

 

[Banjoman]

I have actually tried Pyrodex P for priming and the main charge in a flintlock and am not reciting something read on the internet. I’m one of them fellers that sometimes has to try things for hisself just to make sure they don’t work.

With a very good, very sharp flint, it would ignite about once every five times and then with a horrible hang fire. It just ain’t worth the trouble when real black can be ordered so easily.

I sometimes use substitute powders in percussion guns only because I bought a bunch of the stuff before I learned the truth about real black powder and hate to waste anything. If I had it to do over, I’d never bought any substitute powders.

 

[Dryball]

I think you will be disappointed if you don't use real black powder for both the charge and priming

 

[Old Bear]

I plan on using pyrodex rs for my main powder. Problem is I can't get 4f black powder for the priming pan. Will pyrodex p work just as well?

Use only black powder or you will be frustrated with hand fires. As far as 4f get some screen door screen and make it however fine you want it a pound 4f will last you and your family a lifetime

 

[Jappo]

I used Pyrodex RS in the pan to test locks, used it in a Spain lock and a homemade flint. It ignited good. I also tried it in a Hy-Hunter and a Trapper. Never had any hang fires. If my lock and flint ignite the RS, it sure won't have any problem igniting 4f.
Try it and see. Although its not recommended, I believe your not going to hurt anything.

 

[Reno]

DO NOT USE PYRODEX IN A FLINTLOCK!
Otherwise your next post will be about no ignition or poor ignition.
PYRODEX should not be used in a flintlock.

 

[springfield art]

Yes. I use 2f (real black) for main charge and prime and I also use 3f for main charge and prime since I have both.


Don’t worry about not having 4f.





(Unless you’re shooting smooth bores in the England)

The difference in ignition time is so slight as to be beyond human ability to detect any difference. Totally agree with Banjoman; don't worry!