Black powder in a conversion.

[karlhungus]

I apologize if this question is simply answered, but I did a fair share of searching and can figure it out.

I'm thinking of getting a colt 1851 conversion in 38sp. Because because I'm getting it for no other reason than to have fun and look cool I may use my already established reloading setup to make some black powder rounds for fun.

Im under the impression black powder makes a bit less pressure than smokeless, and ive read that a 38 case filled up to the max with bp still isn't as high pressure as a standard 38sp(am I wrong?). my question is this, could one use 357 brass and make a bp load that fits in that pistol?... And is safe ofcourse.

I can't seem to find the dimensions of the cylinder in question so it may not even be possible. Also I've only ever loaded rifle rounds so my knowledge of pistol cartridge dimensions is lacking. Just trying to maximize potential I guess. Obviously I would be going through the regular testing, but if someone has already headed down this road it would be good to know if I'm wasting my time.

 

[splattergun]

.38 special was originally a BP cartridge. yes, it's a low pressure load, but that doesn't mean you don't need to take it seriously and do it correctly. Several threads on the subject in the black powder and pistol forums. As long as you're filling the case, there is no reason why you couldn't load .357 with black. It's only slightly longer than .38 Sp.

 

[Jesse Heywood]

I'm thinking of getting a colt 1851 conversion in 38sp. Because because I'm getting it for no other reason than to have fun and look cool I may use my already established reloading setup to make some black powder rounds for fun.

One huge concern. Learn about handling and loading black powder before proceeding. You don't want to use any plastic for powder handling. That goes from powder measures, dippers, funnels.

Im under the impression black powder makes a bit less pressure than smokeless, and ive read that a 38 case filled up to the max with bp still isn't as high pressure as a standard 38sp(am I wrong?). my question is this, could one use 357 brass and make a bp load that fits in that pistol?... And is safe ofcourse.

Yes, BP burns at lower pressure. I assume you're shooting for fun. Don't push things. Stick with the 38 spl case. The added length of the 357 case won't buy much in performance for plinking or punching paper.

I will recommend you first get a copy of Lyman's Black Powder Handbook. For scoops I use cartridge cases with handles of tie wire. A brass or aluminum funnel. A can of Goex FFFg. And for cleaning Butch's Black Powder Bore Shine, eliminates the need for soapy water cleaning.

 

[Pat Riot]

One huge concern. Learn about handling and loading black powder before proceeding. You don't want to use any plastic for powder handling. That goes from powder measures, dippers, funnels.



Yes, BP burns at lower pressure. I assume you're shooting for fun. Don't push things. Stick with the 38 spl case. The added length of the 357 case won't buy much in performance for plinking or punching paper.

I will recommend you first get a copy of Lyman's Black Powder Handbook. For scoops I use cartridge cases with handles of tie wire. A brass or aluminum funnel. A can of Goex FFFg. And for cleaning Butch's Black Powder Bore Shine, eliminates the need for soapy water cleaning.

What he said ^^^^^