Will Modern Firearms Function With Black Powder? (AR-15, AK-47, Glock 17 & More!!!)

Published on June 13, 2025
Duration: 28:06

This video from Kentucky Ballistics explores whether modern firearms like the AR-15, AK-47, Glock 17, and 1911 can function using black powder. Instructor Scott demonstrates that while these firearms can technically fire black powder rounds, they experience significant reliability issues due to fouling, insufficient energy, and the corrosive nature of the propellant, requiring immediate and extensive cleaning. Chronograph data shows substantially lower velocities compared to modern smokeless powder.

Quick Summary

Modern firearms can technically fire black powder, but reliability is severely compromised due to extreme fouling and corrosive residue. Expect malfunctions after only a few rounds, significantly lower velocities, and the absolute necessity for immediate, thorough cleaning to prevent firearm damage.

Chapters

  1. 00:53Introduction to Black Powder Experiment
  2. 01:26Glock 17 (9mm) Testing
  3. 06:571911 (.45 ACP) Testing
  4. 12:27AR-15 (.223) Testing
  5. 16:09AK-47 (7.62x39) Testing
  6. 20:13Chronograph Velocity Testing
  7. 22:41Final Conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can modern firearms like AR-15s or Glocks safely fire black powder?

Modern firearms can technically fire black powder, but they are not designed for it. Expect significant fouling, reduced performance, and potential malfunctions like squib loads. Black powder is also corrosive and requires immediate, thorough cleaning to prevent damage.

What are the main differences between black powder and modern smokeless powder for firearms?

Smokeless powder is cleaner, more energetic, and non-corrosive, providing consistent performance in modern firearms. Black powder produces much less energy, burns dirtier, is highly corrosive, and requires specific handling and cleaning procedures not typical for modern guns.

How reliable are modern firearms when using black powder ammunition?

Reliability is extremely low. Firearms will typically only function for a few rounds before becoming too fouled to operate. The corrosive nature of black powder also necessitates immediate cleaning to prevent damage to the firearm's components.

What are the risks of firing black powder in modern firearms?

Risks include squib loads (bullet stuck in barrel), rapid fouling leading to jams, corrosion of firearm components, and significantly reduced projectile velocity. Proper cleaning is paramount.

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