Traditional Muzzleloading Association

Shooting Traditional Firearms and Weapons => General Interest => Topic started by: RobD on July 04, 2013, 08:29:07 AM

Title: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: RobD on July 04, 2013, 08:29:07 AM
huh?   8)

what are good comparative volume loads for 2fg and 3fg?  iow, if the min/max load range for a .45 flintlock rifle is 45-80 grains of 2fg, what would the comparative load range for using 3fg?  

my current .45 flint rifles likes nearly 70 grains of go-ex 2fg, while the .50 likes just under 80 grains.  what would be a good starting point for using 3fg instead of 2fg for both of those rifles?  i'd like to do some testing to see how well 3fg works for both down the tube and in the pan.
 
tia!
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: Bigsmoke on July 04, 2013, 10:50:10 AM
I think 10% is the number.  In other words, back off the volume by 10% when going to Fffg.
But the real answer is to bench the rifle and do a load development series of shots.  Start at 45 grains of Fffg and shoot 3 shot groups and see what develops.  Next group of three shots, increase the load by 5 grains.  Repeat as necessary.
Time spent with your rifle is always time well used.
John
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: RobD on July 04, 2013, 11:19:29 AM
yes, i already know how to work up a load, just wasn't sure about the comparative loads of 2fg and 3fg.  10% less sounds good, thanx john!
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: Roaddog on July 05, 2013, 06:22:53 AM
My 45 flint likes 70gr. of FFF And 80 in FF. She will put them on poa if I do my part.
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: RobD on July 05, 2013, 06:26:08 AM
how 'bout you folks with 50's?  what's yer 3fg load that works best?
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: sse on July 05, 2013, 10:25:04 AM
If I ever start shooting the pistol, may have to pick up some Fffg to see how it works...meantime, strictly Ffg...
Title: Re: powder type volume load comparisons
Post by: gunmaker on July 05, 2013, 11:38:17 AM
What bigsmoke said,  I shoot 65 gr. of 3f in my .45 long rifle .015 patch .445 ball.  Will shoot into a quarter & 25 paces (from a rest) it shoots way better than me these days. --- And is a vicious deer killer.  45 gr. 3f on trail walks seems to do it for me as well.  Play with her, she'll talk to you.    ....Tom