Which powder?

[SSBN617b]

Ok it’s been a few decades and I’m looking for clarification.
When I started in the late 70’s there was only black powder. There was a problem with pyodex ,so black powder only. So today what can I put in in my newly acquired Uberti Walker and a Hawkins .50 ? is the synthetic version ok?
Thanks Folks,
Mitch

 

[Justin.44]

Real black powder is the preferred option and is available online if you can't find any locally. I've used substitutes like Pyrodex and 777 in my revolvers and they work fine.

As long as your Hawken is a caplock the substitutes should work ok as well, they have for me. Don't use them in a flintlock. I suggest finding some real black though.

As for the grade of powder, 3F should work great in your Walker and Hawken, though 2F would be fine as well.

 

[deermanok]

Stick with the Holy Black.

 

[ord sgt]

If synthetic powder is the only thing you can buy, it will work. Some people have had problems with the substitute powders. If you use the synthetic powder, be sure to give your firearms a thorough cleaning when done shooting.
I have been shooting black powder for many years and I have enough to last till the end of my days on this side of the soil.

 

[satwel]

The synthetic powders will work in percussion guns but I urge you to use real black powder. I don't know about the other synthetics but Pyrodex is a perchlorate based powder which makes it highly corrosive. Even an immediate cleaning does not totally eliminate the damage.

 

[dave951]

Get in touch with a group what shoots real black powder like the NMLRA or N-SSA. Group buys are common and that cuts way back on the hazmat and shipping costs.

As for subs, if you are completely cornered, T7 is the only sub I'd even consider although I'd have to be very desperate. Pyrodex is highly corrosive, especially in a humid area. Of the guns with rotted bores that I've seen, nearly every one was shot with Pyrodex.

 

[SSBN617b]

Thanks for the heads up on the corrosion side effects.

 

[mooman76]

I've used Pyrodex for over 30 years. Is it corrosive, yes. No ill effects. That just means you clean it good and do it right away after shooting.

 

[tenngun]

Pyrodex was sold as easy to clean and not the mess that black is.
Bunk.
But folks used and ruined guns with it.
Clean it just like black and you will be ok. Be very oc in your cleaning
Real oc
Did I mention oc?

 

[SSBN617b]

Did you say ”oc”?

 

[tenngun]

I think so.
Black needs cleaning and guns need care, with pyrodex you can’t be too oc

 

[sheriff john]

Local farm store has re-supplied somewhat. Yesterday I checked out the ML section. Sticker shock for me on Pyrodex as that's all they had. Never did like it, more so now. Black powder's my choice.

 

[Omahkapi'si]

I shoot both Goex 2F and Triple 7. Like ‘em both and no issues. Just develop a sound cleaning routine. Happy shooting!

ps accessibility in my case, T7 I can get online. BP I have to drive a couple hours to get.

 

[Steel Guitar]

Only real bp will have the look, sound, and smell of a smokepole. I shoot mine, put back in case and clean next day with windex and never any rust. Good Luck Pard.

 

[SSBN617b]

Only real bp will have the look, sound, and smell of a smokepole. I shoot mine, put back in case and clean next day with windex and never any rust. Good Luck Pard.

Thanks, I believe you hit the nail on the head.
Mitch