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

Published on June 13, 2025
Duration: 28:06

This experiment tests the functionality of modern firearms like the AR-15, AK-47, Glock 17, and 1911 when loaded with black powder. Results show that while they can fire, reliability is severely compromised due to fouling and insufficient energy. Black powder produces significantly less velocity and requires immediate, extensive cleaning to prevent jams and corrosion.

Quick Summary

Modern firearms can fire black powder, but they are not designed for it and will not function reliably for more than a few rounds without immediate, extensive cleaning due to corrosive fouling and lower energy output.

Chapters

  1. 00:53Intro: Black Powder Experiment Setup
  2. 01:26Glock 17 (9mm) Black Powder Test & Squib Load
  3. 06:571911 (.45 ACP) Black Powder Test & Fouling Issues
  4. 12:27AR-15 (.223) Black Powder Test & Gas System Fouling
  5. 16:09AK-47 (7.62x39) Black Powder Test & Reliability
  6. 20:13Chronograph Velocity Results: Black Powder vs Smokeless
  7. 22:41Final Conclusions: Modern Guns & Black Powder

Frequently Asked Questions

Can modern firearms like the AR-15 or Glock 17 safely fire black powder?

Modern firearms can technically fire black powder, but they are not designed for it. The corrosive residue causes rapid fouling, leading to malfunctions after only a few rounds. It's not recommended for reliable use and requires immediate, extensive cleaning.

What are the main problems when using black powder in modern guns?

The primary issues are severe fouling from corrosive residue, significantly lower energy and velocity compared to smokeless powder, and the inability of smaller cases (like 9mm) to hold enough powder for proper function, often resulting in squib loads.

How does black powder affect the performance of an AR-15 or AK-47?

In gas-operated systems like the AR-15 and AK-47, black powder's heavy soot quickly fouls the gas port, bolt carrier group, and receiver, causing them to jam and cease functioning after just a few shots. Reliability is severely compromised.

What kind of muzzle velocity can be expected from black powder in modern cartridges?

Muzzle velocities are significantly lower. For example, .45 ACP averaged around 455 fps, .223 Remington was between 1546-1666 fps, and 7.62x39mm averaged 1068 fps. These are roughly half or less than what smokeless powder provides.

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