Manual
75
Suggested Black Powder Loads
For T/C 12 Gauge
Muzzleloading Shotguns
The following charts show recommended black powder charges for
Thompson/Center’s System 1
™
12 gauge muzzleloading shotguns.
T/C’s Natural Wads should be used exclusively in the System 1 (with
internal choke tube). Wads must be used in all loads and positioned as illus-
trated on page 68 of this manual. The 1/2" fiber cushion wad
SHOULD NOT
BE USED IN CHOKED BARRELS
. Mark your ramrod as explained in the
text and always check to make certain that the wads and shot column are firm-
ly seated against the powder charge as shown on page 68.
Black Powder or Pyrodex are the only two types of powder that can be
safely used in muzzleloading firearms. When using a muzzleloading shot-
gun the proper choice of powder narrows even further, for FFG Black
Powder or RS Pyrodex are the only two granulations of these powders de-
signed for shotgun use.
Finer granulations of Black Powder (FFFG or FFFFG) cannot be used as
they will increase pressure and can create a potentially dangerous condi-
tion. The same applies to Pyrodex. Of the various kinds of Pyrodex of-
fered, only RS Pyrodex is safe to use in a muzzleloading shotgun. Never
exceed the charge listed. Never attempt to use smokeless powders of any
type or in any quantity. Some smokeless powders are “black” in color,
making proper identification extremely important. Smokeless powders
produce pressures which are unsafe in a muzzleloading firearm. THESE
EXCESS PRESSURES MAY DAMAGE THE FIREARM AND CAUSE
INJURY AND/OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS AND
DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.
Do not exceed the maximum charge listed. If you are using RS Pyrodex
in place of FFG Black Powder, remember that the proper charge to
charge relationship is one of volume not weight. Thompson/Center is not
responsible for loading information printed in sources other than this
booklet.
Start with the lightest load and work up to higher loads cautiously until
you reach the load which best suits your needs.