Red crystals

[brewer12345]

I was shooting my zouave today and a good portion of the time when I swabbed the bore I found some red crystals on the patch. I vaguely recall reading that others have see similar, but know nothing else about it. What are these?

 

[deermanok]

One of my new rifles had that red stuff in the barrel.
I think it's just whatever kind of grease or preservatives the manufacturer used.

 

[The Crisco Kid]

I've heard that Swiss powder leaves some red particles in the fouling. I haven't shot any so I can't speak from experience. I haven't noticed it with Goex.

 

[Grenadier1758]

Those are sulphur "cherries" They will sometimes occur when temperature, humidity and powder quantity are correct. They can occur with any brand of real black powder. Some will say that they are an indication that the load is perfect. Its the group on the target that indicates a good load. Don't worry about sulphur "cherries".

 

[brewer12345]

Thanks, grenadier. I wasn't particularly worried, just curious.

 

[ZUG]

Grenadier1758 is correct -- I find that this is a temperature / humidity condition not a powder brand issue .