Powders??
 

Is the a cleaner buring powder? I just got a ML and I went out and shot it a few weeks back. I bought the Pyrodex RS. Would the Pyrodex Select or the Triple 7 burn cleaner in the gun. Seems to take alot to clean beofre every shot??

GHJ

RE: Powders??
 

In keeping your barrel clean shot-to-shot, here's how they rate in my book from best to worst

Black Mag-3
American Pioneer/Goex Pinnacle (same)
777
Pyrodex Select/RS... very little fouling differential
Goex Blackpowder


FFF and (P) istol powders are finer & burn cleaner. Both can be used in any ML from 45 to 58 caliber. Weak 209 primers like CCI Standard keep the bore cleaner than strong primers like Federals.

Swab the bore as often as necessary. The more powder used ... the more swabbing. I typically swab with a Windex/Alcohol mix spray bottle after every 2nd shot using 105 gr. 777 FFF. Follow both sides of a wet patch with both sides of a dry patch. The idea is to keep the bore somewhat lightly fouled for best results in most MLs.

Of all the powders I listed, 777 is the only one that leaves a "crusty fouling". This powder usually requires bore brush swabbing to reduce risks of short-seating the next bullet when swabbing is neglected. The use of weak 209 primers and FFF powder with 777 is most beneficial.

If used/purchased correctly, 777 is the best bang for your buck. It offers clean burning when correctly used -- it's high potent & can be purchased for as little as $17.25 jug online. Worthwhile if you shoot alot like me.

RE: Powders??
 

I got a jar of american Pioneer ffg small granulars
really love the stuff![8D]

RE: Powders??
 

FWIW...I used Pyrodex Select and RS in MK85's and TC Hawken sidelock percussions all during the 90's...never had to wipe between shots...the trick was to use borebutter for lube, no petroleum based products.
Switched to flintlocks for the past few years so I had to switch to real BP...same thing, shoot 40 shot range session every Saturday morning with Goex 3F, never wipe between shots.

RE: Powders??
 

I totally concur with Triple Se7en's rating of the powders and shooting/cleaning method.

RE: Powders??
 

Have you guys actually shot the Pinnacle yet? I just got five pounds and had to pay the hazmat fee to get it as Arizona seems to be on the last to receive new powder list. I know it was developed with American Pioneer but it is slightly different color and may have slightly different characteristics. I see the comment that it is the same as APP but am curious if that is from shooting experience or just assumption. I may know soon as I now have some to get through my Omega and over the chronograph. I do not have any fffg APP to compare although I did order the fffg Pinnacle which is still pretty large in grain size. I intend to make a comparison of Pinnacle and Black Mag'3 as I think one or the other of those is going to be what I settle on. I used Black Mag'3 this hunting season and was really pleased with the performance. If Pinnacle is even close to as clean and shoots as well for me and is more available it might take the first place position. Time will tell. I will try to post results when I get range time. Pinnacle may be less expensive when it is really available in stores or at least that is what a rep from Goex told me.

RE: Powders??
 

I agree with Triple Se7en's rating although if you're shooting an inline or cap lock I have to put Pinnacle by Goex right in there with APP. I've never shot the Black Mag3 but that will soon change...

I always kind of liked Pyrodex. It was all I shot for many years. Of course it was all I could get my hands on for many years. At least the crud rings are soft and a quick swab of the barrel has you back shooting...

RE: Powders??
 

Triple Se7en. where are you finding 777 online for $17.25 I would appreciate knowing as this is what I use a ton of in both ML and cartridge guns. Paying 21-$25 now. Thanks for the response.

RE: Powders??
 

If you check at wall-mart after hunting season you may get a steal.A fellow came in the bait shop one day and said he bought some there for $5 a jug.Weather he did or not I don't know,I went to check to see if they had any pyro-select and they didn't have any powder left but did get some T/C xtp's for $2 a box of 20 with sabots.And they did have others things marked down ,but nothing I was interested in.

RE: Powders??
 

I concur .
I know that Borebutter sometimes gets some bad press , but I've used nothing else and never had any problems with it . Fouling is light and soft , my bores sparkle , and when used as a lube the bullets seat with relative ease . I shoot Pyrodex RS™ exclusively .