Manual

14
UNDERSTANDING
BLACK POWDER®
Shooting muzzleloading firearms requires the shoot-
er to be both a reloader and a rifleman at the same
time. It requires strict adherence to the instructions
set forth in this booklet. Failure to follow these
instructions may cause damage to the firearm and
injury and/or death to the shooter or bystanders and
damage to property.
NOTE: Black Powder is manufactured in four specific types or granu-
lations for use in firearms. Generally speaking, it is the granule size
which determines the appropriate use of Black Powder. The largest
granulations are naturally the slowest burning and, therefore, work
best in large caliber rifles and shotguns. Pistols or smaller caliber
rifles require a finer or faster burning powder. The priming powder
used in the pan of a flint lock is extremely fine and fast burning for
positive ignition of the main charge.
FG (commonly called Single “F”)
The muzzleloading enthusiast finds little use for this very coarse
black powder. It’s use is restricted to the large bore (10, 8, 4
gauge) shotguns of yesteryear.
FFG (commonly called Double “F”)
This is a very popular powder for .45 caliber to .58 caliber rifles.
It is also used for 12, 16, and 20 gauge muzzleloading shotguns.
While it is not considered a pistol powder, it is sometimes used in
very large caliber single shot pistols. It is recommended for use
in most T/C muzzleloaders.
FFFG (commonly called Triple “F”)
Due to its wide range of uses, Triple “F” is the black powder that
is most commonly found on a dealer’s shelf. It is used in all per-
cussion revolvers, most single shot pistols, and most of the
smaller (under .45 caliber) rifles. In a pinch, it can also be used
to prime a flint lock.
FFFFG (commonly called Four “F”)
The finest of all currently available black powders, Four “F” is
best used for priming flint locks. Due to its limited use, it is some-
times difficult to obtain.
When purchasing Black Powder be certain that it is in the original
manufacturer
’
s container and that its granulation or type is clear
-
ly marked on the label. Follow the storage and handling precau-
tions which are on the label. If you have any questions concern
-
ing the safe handling or storage of Black Powder, write to the
manufacturer of the powder
.
Additional information on powder
storage is available from the National Fire Protection
Association,
P.O. Box 9146, Quincy, Mass. 02269. Or call 1-800-344-3555.
Ask for pamphlet #495.