Manual

14
They should never be used in a muzzleloading firearm of any type. Some of these
powders are “Black” in color making proper identification extremely important. It is the
characteristic of Smokeless Powders to burn in a controlled manner within a given pres-
sure range. Control of this pressure range requires the proper application of the powder
to the specific purpose and in the quantities for which it was designed to be used.
Never use smokeless powder of any type or in any quantity in a muzzleloading
firearm, and never mix powders. The use of any smokeless powder could re-
sult in a detonation or explosion WHICH COULD CAUSE INJURY AND/OR DEATH
TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.
Confine your use to Black Powder or an approved Black Powder substitute, such as
Pyrodex, and learn how to identify these powders and to use them correctly in your muz-
zleloading firearm. Here we will deal first with Black Powder for certainly it is the oldest
of our propellant powders.
Black Powder is manufactured in four specific types or granulations for use in
firearms. Generally speaking, it is the granule size which determines the appropriate use
of Black Powder. Coarsest granulations are naturally the slowest burning and, therefore,
work best in large caliber rifles and shotguns. Pistols or small caliber rifles require a finer
or faster burning powder. The priming powder used in the pan of a flint lock is extreme-
ly fine and fast burning. The accompanying chart will help you to recognize the various
granulations of Black Powder and to relate them to their proper use.
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: