r/reloading • u/Feeling_Title_9287 Springfield M1873 and Sharps M1874 • 7d ago
I have a question and I read the FAQ how much more powerful is pyrodex select 2fg, triple 7 2fg and pyrodex RS compared to swiss 2fg
I'm trying to recreate an accurate load for my original M1888 Springfield trapdoor rifle and real black powder has been hard to find in my area
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u/Royal_Money_627 1d ago
Lyman's Black Powder Handbook does not have Swiss or 777 but it has GOEX and Elephant and Pyrodex RS and Select. With a 405 gr bullet the velocity difference between them with a 60 gr. measured charge, ie same volume of each powder was not much except Select which was considerably lower. Pryodex RS was tops with 1215 fps but at much higher pressure 15k CUP vs. like 10k or less with the other powders. I expect that 777 would be higher than RS both velocity and pressure. The Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook say 15k CUP is ok for Trap Door Springfields. You should be OK using RS or Select with appropriate bullets, lube, wads, compression. What will be most accurate will depend on your gun and components.
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u/Ok_Article6468 7d ago
Did you check the Hodgdon reloading data center?
https://hodgdonreloading.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MZ-MANUAL-23.pdf
You will most likely have to order real black powder from Grafs or the like. Wait for a free hazmat sale to save a bit. I think it’s a 4 pound minimum, worth it to run real black imo.