Manual
17
Pressures And Velocities
for Black Powder and
Black Powder Substitutes
Shooting muzzleloading firearms requires rethinking all that you have learned
about firearms. It requires discipline to cope with the requirements of being a
reloader and 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.
The propellant charge in a muzzleloader is poured directly into the barrel of the
firearm and then compressed by the projectile in the breech area. In the case of pellets, each
preformed pellet is already compressed. The muzzleloading charge rests directly against the
steel walls of the breech area and the face of the breech plug. These areas contain the pres-
sure. As heavier charges are loaded, pressure climbs accordingly. Unreasonably heavy
charges of black powder or a recommended black powder substitute can be dangerous.
Restrict yourself to the loads listed in this booklet. When in doubt, start with the lowest
charge listed and work up to find the optimum load with regards to accuracy. Never exceed
the maximum load listed. Keep in mind that over a period of shooting, the build-up of foul-
ing can increase pressures, make loading more difficult, and leads to a decrease in accura-
cy. If you notice an increase of fouling, and loading becomes difficult, stop shooting and
clean the bore. Consistent pressures are necessary in achieving accuracy from shot to shot.
Any increase in bullet weight with a given powder charge will also lead to an increase
in pressure. The optimum charge for a light projectile will not necessarily be the optimum
charge for a heavier projectile.
Improper loading can also lead to a serious and dangerous pressure condition. Failure
to seat the projectile tightly against the powder charge can increase pressure dramatically,
causing an unsafe condition. Never fire a muzzleloading rifle if the projectile is only partway
down the barrel.
Discharging firearms in poorly ventilated
areas, cleaning firearms or handling
ammunition may result in exposure to lead
and other substances known to cause birth
defects, reproductive harm and other serious
physical injury. Have adequate ventilation at
all times. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure.
WARNING