I finally got shoot my muzzleloader!

Sharp Shooter · 02-24-2008, 04:26 PM

I finally got to get out and shoot my muzzleloader for the first time in a long time. I went hunting back in November and since then my 58cal Renegade has been loaded with what is in my signature. When I got ready to shoot I remembered it was still loaded since November. I capped it, aimed, and she fired right away! No delay or anything.

So anyways I shoot with my norman load in my signature then decided to get out the 525gr Hornady Great Plains conicals. I decided to back off my charge to 100gr Pyrodex Select. That was it right there, 100gr Pyrodex Select and a 525gr Great Plains conical. That load worked out really well so I did not change anything.

I think this will be my new load for Mule Deer next year. Next time I am going to try to bump the charge and see what happens. Will there be a difference in velocity with Pyrodex Select vs. RS or Goex?

I liked the Pyrodex and could not really tell a difference. I am not sure if I should just get some RS around here or if I should order some black powder. I like the real stuff but if I dont really notice a difference then what should I do?

cayugad · 02-24-2008, 04:43 PM

The only advantage real black powder is going to do for you is, if ignition is a problem, black powder has a lower igntion temperature then Pyrodex.So if goes off easier. Pyrodex in real cold damp weather will sometimes act up. Although if the rifle is prepared right, there should be no problem. As for bumping the charge.. WOW that charge you're shooting is plenty hot now.

Sharp Shooter · 02-24-2008, 07:05 PM

I have shot those with 120gr FFG but I was just screwing around. I can handle a lot of recoil. I know a guy on another forum shooting a 560 Maxi-hunter with 135gr FFG! WOW!

So should I get the real stuff of just use pyrodex? I like the thought of using the real stuff but If I dont need to go through the hastle....?