Changing powder size

[Leifer]

When I first got my contract rifle the previous owner said he used a 75gr charge of 2F powder with 3F for the pan. After a while I began to notice that I just wasn't seeing a lot of info on separate priming horns for trappers and such for the Rocky Mountain Fur Trade, so I just went with using 2F for the charge and the pan...yeah...that doesn't always work the greatest. The rifle was a kit that the previous owner had put together and I did not receive any additional paperwork from him on the build that might have any further charge suggestions. Anyone have any advice on switching from 2F to 3F for the main charge and what a suitable load would be?

Leifer

[Rod]

Actually, the 75 grain load should be about right in there for FFF granulation. I use 70 grains FFF in my .50, and around 80 grains FFF in my .58. I've seen recommendations for a fair bit more than that for the .58, but that's what's comfortable for me, and seems plenty accurate at the distances I shoot (but then with me, accuracy is a relative term ). Do some experimenting, you'll find what works well for you. I used FFFF for years before discarding the priming horn, I've found FFF works just as well----FF though, has a lag even I can discern, with a higher number of ignition failures.

Rod

[Mark]

Leifer,

I use 55 grains of FFg in my .54. At 25 yards I can cloverleaf. At 100 yds it will drop about 8 inches. For hunting loads I double up. 95 to 110 grains appears to shoot about the same at 100 yds. I have to prime with 4F. My experience with 2F prime is the same as Rod's and yours. It does not work. Have tried 3F but chose to stick with 2F.

If I remember correctly, the museum at Ft. Bridger has a documented powder horn of Jim Bridger's. The charger with it held 52-55grains. It has been at least 10 years since I was there, so if anyone can support this, it would be nice.

I mostly shot metal targets at rendezvouses. The 55grains works for everything presented at most of these shoots.

Mark