What should I load?

[colbymason1]

Hello all, I am new to the muzzle loading world. I am wondering how much powder I should load for these following guns:

1- 31 cal. unidentified cap and ball revolver
2- 40 cal derringer
3- 44 cal 3rd dragoon replica by Armi San Marco

I will be using 3F pyrodex

I have all of the accessories for them (balls, wads/patches, powder, caps, etc.)
I bought them second hand and have no booklets with them. Most of the googling I have tried says to use the manufacturer recommended. I planned on trying half of the caliber and seeing how that goes.

Anything helps, Thanks

 

[Comfortably_Numb]

1. Probably 15 grains
2. 30 grains
3. 35 to 40 grains.
This is measured in volume, not weight.
I wouldn't use pyrodux

 

[Grenadier1758]

The recommended measures are equivalent to that volume of black powder as measured in grains. Like @Comfortably_Numb, black powder is preferred. I do think I would reduce the load for the Derringer to 20 grains. You don't need patches for revolvers.

 

[wiscoaster]

... I planned on trying half of the caliber and seeing how that goes.

That's a great ballpark starting point, and you'll probably end up bumping that up, but best to be conservative for starters. I do think 40 is a little heavy as an experimental starter load for a Dragoon; I've got 35 as my "standard load" for mine. Let us know how it goes.

 

[Kansas Jake]

I too recommend black powder but if pyrodex is all that is easily available it will work. You just need to be more diligent with cleaning and check your firearms regularly when storing for any sign of rust.

Make sure the balls you use are a snug fit when you load in a revolver and usually they shave a thin ring of lead. Use soft lead to seal better and avoid undue stress on the loading lever.

The derringer will usually require an under bore size ball and a patch around the ball.

 

[Rifleman1776]

The revolvers will be fine with as much real bp as the cylinders will hold and still allow you to seat the ball. The derringer is a fun gun, useful for almost nothing. I believe about 10 grains will be enuf for it to go "bang" and make ye grin.