Rollin' My Own.......

[Erwan]

What are you using to nitrate the paper. Potassium nitrate,saltpetre? Is there an alternative that might help a flash. I crack my paper when putting in cylinder but wonder about nitrating,.any help here?

Pure saltpetre (KNO³), you can get it here as food additive : https://www.amazon.com/HUMCO-263794...ild=1&keywords=salpeter&qid=1586377763&sr=8-1

 

[Crow-Feather]

I'm pretty sure the cartridges are going to rupture when rammed (maybe?). . Alot of shooters break the paper with a pick when loading. Do any of you find that really necessary?

Yes, if I am hunting.

 

[.44 associate]

I'm pretty sure the cartridges are going to rupture when rammed (maybe?). . Alot of shooters break the paper with a pick when loading. Do any of you find that really necessary?

I have read that one reason the cartridges are tapered is so that they will rupture when rammed. I personally have not found any need to break the paper beforehand. I make very fragile cartridges with just a single layer of fine paper, though.

 

[Desperate Lee]

I agree. I use only curling paper from Sally's and have no conplaints. Quick , easy , no fuss , and they fire every time.
DL

 

[51colt]

I have a half-inch dowel sitting by my drill press waiting for me to turn down a few paper cart mandrels. The other day I was watching guns of the west videos on YouTube at the end of one his paper cart videos he had a plastic paper cart mandrel for sale so I ordered one came today so tonight I will be trying it out tonight. The mandrel is made to use 44cal Johnston & Dow bullets but I think I can make them a little longer for round balls.

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[Eutycus]

You can tell that I'm new at this by the questions. Why would a longer mandrel be needed for round balls? And why is hardwood specified instead of just regular pine or some of the other softer woods?

 

[51colt]

The Johnston & Dow bullets are glued close to the bottom of the bullet. I make RB carts two different ways. One way I leave the paper over the ball leaving a rats tail for easy handling and loading. But I also like them with the ball uncovered so I can ranch dip the balls in wax or JPW. You can use a softwood dowel a hardwood will last longer.

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