For years i have left my muzzleloaders loaded for extended periods of time. My guns were always loaded on clean barrels.


Some time ago i noticed some very fine pitting and a frosted appearance of the metal in the powder chamber of my TC Encore. Recently noticed the same condition in my TC Black Diamond. That fine pitting and the associated frosting is caused by potassium perchlorate.


Except for BH 209 all the black powder substitutes contain potassium perchlorate in varying quantities. Yep, Pyrodex, Triple Seven and all the APP powders (APP, JSG, Pinnacle and Black MZ) contain potassium perchlorate.


You may ask why these substitute powders contain potassium perchlorate. Answer: It's an inexpensive way of boosting the puissance of the powder.


Henceforth i will not leave my muzzleloaders loaded for extended periods of time.