When i take a match to fffg of pyrodex, and then to fffg of goex, the pyrodex burns much slower than the real blackpowder, which goes up instantaniously. Why is this, and how do they have the same power in spite of this difference? Also, why is it that recently pyrodex has become more popular than the real powder, it seems difficult to obtain goex, whereas pyrodex seems to be everywhere.
Pyrodex vs. real stuff
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arcticap
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It is due to the lower ignition point and differences in the chemical properties between the two. What if you found out that Pyrodex was chemically more like smokeless powder than black powder was? Would that help explain the difference to you, because I think it's closer to the truth than anything else I could say. Except, that Pryodex has sulpher added to it to make it behave more like black powder than smokeless. Black powder has a lower ignition point and behaves with more volatility when exposed to heat which mandates stricter storage requirements than Pyrodex. B.P. is considered smokier, more corrosive and more susceptible to moisture as well. So, despite being more expensive, Pyrodex has become more available and thus, more acceptable to many. (It's usually higher in velocity too.)
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20cows
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Confining Pressure?
The difference in apparent burning rate is probably related to confining pressure.
Black powder burns at the same rate, regardless of confining pressure, whereas smokeless powders burn quite differently. I know Pyrodex is not considered "smokeless", but it may share this characteristic.
The difference in apparent burning rate is probably related to confining pressure.
Black powder burns at the same rate, regardless of confining pressure, whereas smokeless powders burn quite differently. I know Pyrodex is not considered "smokeless", but it may share this characteristic.
Jim Watson
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It is easier to get Pyrodex (and the other fake powders) because they are less easily ignited than real black powder and do not burn as fast when not confined. So they can be shipped and stored like smokeless and you can buy them at Walmart.
Shipping on black is much more restrictive, although you can buy in case lots and have it delivered for not too much money. Maine Powder House will sell Goex for $10.80 a pound, delivered, 25 pound case only. Powder, Inc. will sell smaller lots for $10.50 a pound but will charge hazmat and shipping, so 5 pounds of Goex will cost $88 (to my area.)
Shipping on black is much more restrictive, although you can buy in case lots and have it delivered for not too much money. Maine Powder House will sell Goex for $10.80 a pound, delivered, 25 pound case only. Powder, Inc. will sell smaller lots for $10.50 a pound but will charge hazmat and shipping, so 5 pounds of Goex will cost $88 (to my area.)
Chawbaccer
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Black powder is an explosive, thats why there are restrictions on it making it more difficult to get.
Smokeless powder and pyrodex is a highly flamable substance and as such doesn't have as many restrictions.
Smokeless powder and pyrodex is a highly flamable substance and as such doesn't have as many restrictions.
Pyrodex and triple seven are classified as smokeless powders and may also be used with tools designed for normal smokeless powder reloading.
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This is useful to know for those who want to load BP cartridges like 45-70 without having to use long drop tubes and aluminum powder hoppers.
Slowworm.
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This is useful to know for those who want to load BP cartridges like 45-70 without having to use long drop tubes and aluminum powder hoppers.
Slowworm.
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