Black Powder Ruger Convertible .45

[Dienekes]

Finally got around to loading up some black powder loads for what has turned out to be one of my favorite plinkers--a NM .45 Convertible, blue, 4 5/8" barrel. Used the Lyman Keith 250 gr SWC sized to .454, home brew black powder lube, and 35 grains FFg. It shot cleanly, to the same point of impact as the smokeless load, and at least as accurately, maybe even a bit better. Fairly thunderous roar, considerable smoke, pushy but not snappy recoil. Only shot 12 rounds this time out, but cleanup with warm soapy water was ridiculously easy.

Have been leering at the 5 1/2" Old Army and wishing it had adustable sights; but it looks like I had my black powder Ruger right here all the time. What a "blast".

Guess it's never too late to have a happy childhood.

 

[Weird Guy]

So if I understand this correctly you made homemade, brass cartridge rounds using blackpowder as propellant, and used them in a regular revolver?

 

[Dienekes]

Handloaded the round as per the original .45 Colt round, except for substituting the 250 gr Keith SWC for the old RNL bullet and 35 grains of powder in lieu of the original 40 grains. Solid head cases will not hold the full 40 grains. Essentially the same thing you would have bought over the counter in 1880.

 

[MCgunner]

I've often thought of doing that with my Blackhawk, but never did. I have an old Army, older one, adjustable sights and 7 1/2 inch barrel. Thing's big time fun and you don't need brass for it. I cast a Lee conical 220 grain in hollow point or round nose. Pretty accurate in that gun.

 

[unspellable]

BP cartrdige experiments

I've thought of loading my 445 SuperMag with BP. So far, I've put it off as it doesn't come aprt for cleaning as easily as my cap and ball revolvers.