Safely dispose of blackpowder

[Billnpatti]

Is it black powder or might it be smokeless powder. Be absolutely sure that you are right. Know that you know, that you know. Otherwise, dispose of it by dumping it on the ground. That's the best way to dispose of old unknown powder. If you are absolutely sure that it is black powder, make sure that it is at least 3f or coarser. Do not use 4f to load a rifle. It is too hot for most rifles. 4f is generally intended for use as a pan charge only. It can be used in small charges such as pistols but I don't recommend it for charging your rifle. So, if you are absolutely certain that it is 3f, 2f or coarser, break it up and shoot it. The stuff simply seems to never go bad.

 

[Eric Krewson]

In my case here wasn't any doubt, 4F in the priming horn and 3F in the larger horn. I had a can of each, 3F and 4F, I don't mix powder sizes.

 

[Rifleman1776]

I don't mix powder sizes.

Back in the day when I was super anal about 'X' hunting (competition shooting), I used powder from on one lot as long as it lasted. When my supplies were getting short, I mixed what was left 2Fg, 3Fg and put in a clearly marked container. That was my hunting powder. Truth of the fact be told, when I went to the range it performed as well as my precious "anal" powder.

 

[Mad Irish Jack]

Get as much loose stuff out of the horn as you can. Then put about 10 to 15 #6 pellets into the horn (count them out) and shake them around the horn. That will help safely loosen and break down the clumps of powder. Keep dumping it out and count the pellets so one or two don't lodge inside the horn. If you want to get the old powder residue out after the powder is out, use hot tap water to rinse. Wipe the outside dry and use canned air to blow out the inside and let set a day or so to evaperate any residue. Shouldn't need to rinse, but that's your choice and preference. It wont ruin the horn.