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Another "dumb" newbie question...

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RicG

32 Cal
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So, I see all of these suggested numbers for BP usage. I assume these measurements are by volume. Why is it that more folks don't weigh the BP and then fill "transport" vials for field usage? I suppose it's more of a PITA, but it sure would appear better for accuracy and repeatability.
 
Many do exactly that, especially the ones that like to go to the range and try to end up with just one ragged hole in the target. People looking for "minute of deer" aren't going to go to that extent. It all depends on what a person is looking to get out of their shooting. Fun, competition, bragging rights, enjoyment of doing it traditionally, etc.
What you need to watch out for is making sure you don't exceed the manufacturer's recommended max load, which they state in volume. If I were going to weigh charges, I would set my volume measure to the recommended max charge and then weigh a couple of charges on the scale. Then I'd know what weight I shouldn't exceed...with that brand and granulation of powder anyway.
Many argue that a couple grains of powder effect groups little and it is a waste of time. With patched roundball I've found that playing around with patch material and thickness, and lube and amount of lube effects my groups far more than a grain of powder does...besides my own shaking of course.
 
Why is it that more folks don't weigh the BP and then fill "transport" vials for field usage?

Many do, they are called paper cartridges.

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Can you say the word potato ?
 
Most paper cartridges are by volume. Pour the powder in a measure, pour it in the paper. People who make LOTS of them tend to have a 60gr scoop, pour powder into a spark/static proof bowl and just scoop it out.
 
Our ability to weigh out charges wasn't available in the period. It was barely available 50 years ago, and still isn't something the average shooter has the equipment to do.
Modern muzzleloading actually went in the opposite direction, selling powder in pre-measured pellets.beyond most

Measuring powder by weight makes shooting more complicated.and expensive. carrying pre-measured vials makes it more complicated and cumbersome.

Muzzleloading was perfected long ago, no need to reinvent the wheel.
 
It might depend on the use and the size of the charge being used. I know one pistol shooter who shoots 36 caliber pistol in matches. His charges are small. Very small. He pre weighs his powder and puts in really small vials. The vials are put into a special container that will hold a large number of vials sort of like a cartridge tray for reloading.

He considers it to be essential to do this because a grain or two variation is, percentage wise, a large difference in his small changes.

I know that generally we eschew weighing loads in this hobby and I'm in that camp. But any shooter can learn a lot playing around with their powder measures and a scale.
 
Thanks for the sensible replies. I don't need to reinvent anything! LOL
 
I’m a handloader and have all sorts of equipment to weigh out charges if I so desire but I like shooting muzzleloaders in part because of the simplicity. I also think that if you use the same technique each time, measuring by volume can be pretty accurate.
 
So, I see all of these suggested numbers for BP usage. I assume these measurements are by volume. Why is it that more folks don't weigh the BP and then fill "transport" vials for field usage? I suppose it's more of a PITA, but it sure would appear better for accuracy and repeatability.

I shoot in competition. For load development, I'll use some sample vials from Amazon to carry premeasured charges to the range for testing.

I measure by weight and then look at what the volume equivalent is. Others go strictly by volume. Choose one, stick with it for consistency.
 
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