Blackpowder measurements question

[66gt350]

Ok...I'm a semi-newbie when it comes to black powder pistols. I've got a colt replica that came with the flask and correct powder measurer, and everything is happy. I'm planning on getting a new one and I've been doing some reading and research, and everywhere it states that the powder measurements are in volume, not weight. But all the data is in grains, which is a weight measurement...that's where I'm confused.

How can the grain measurement be volume? That's like saying I weigh 19 gallons.

thanks
Rob

 

[1911user]

If you filled the powder measure with the correct size black powder, that amount of powder should weigh what the measure is rated for. Where it gets tricky is using black powder substitutes like pyrodex.

Pyrodex substitutes for black powder on a volume basis only. The same volume of black powder and pyrodex will propel a bullet to roughly the same velocity. However, that same volume of pyrodex will weigh roughly 25-30% less than that of black powder, but it has the same energy so it doesn't matter. Just use the volume measures for pyrodex and enjoy the extra 30% more shots per pound of powder (compared to black powder).

 

[Mark whiz]

The "grain" measurement given in ANY black powder type load IS a volume measure...............it dates WAY back. The "grain" weight measurement was derived from the volume measurement - but it is NOT the same.

Any black powder measure will be set-up for volume, so you don't have to worry.............just load the right number and you're good to go

For that colt, a 30gr load is going to be your max load anyway - just make sure your measure for it has 1gr increments - you need it for that small of a load.

Enjoy the pistol..........I have a 1858Rem model and these things are a blast to shoot.

 

[Scoupe]

Yep, what Mark said.

It's like ounces. One can drink 12oz of their favorite beverage (volume) and one can eat an 4oz bag of chips (weight) with said beverage.

Have fun with that Colt replica. Nothing brings a grin to my face like touching off a few through one of my BP revolvers. I think my favorite is the "Navy" in .36, followed closely by the 1860 "Army" in .44.

 

[66gt350]

Scoupe...There is a difference between a fluid oz (beer) and oz (hot dog).

The Colt replica is the old one...The new one I'm looking at is the Ruger Old Army.

 

[Mark whiz]

The Old Army is a great pistol........................stronger and more accurate than the various replicas. And I believe the max charge for the Old Army is 35gr of 3fg powder..............so you get a little more bang with it too.

 

[JNewell]

Due to the volume of the ROA's cylinders (I probably should not think this, much less say it here...) I don't think you could get enough BP into the charging holes, and still get a projectile on top of the powder, to damage the revolver.

Since there's always some candidate for the Darwin Awards out there, I hasten to add, please follow the manufacturer's instructions and safe loading practices so that you may live long and prosper...

 

[Fatelvis]

Jnew, its true, the Ruger is designed to stand up to smokeless pressures. It is impossible to put too much blackpowder, or a blackpowder substitute, in the cylinder to damage the revolver. Thats what I call well made!

 

[Scoupe]

"Scoupe...There is a difference between a fluid oz (beer) and oz (hot dog).

The Colt replica is the old one...The new one I'm looking at is the Ruger Old Army."

Yes, that's what I was saying. A 20 grain scoop of BP doesn't weigh 20 grains.

The Ruger Old Army is an excellent choice. You'll like it too.

 

[rick_reno]

Young Luke Skywalker - learn to trust your measure and all will be well.