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Published on June 16, 2023
Duration: 11:33

This video demonstrates the loading process for a 1730s Finnish English calling piece, a black powder shotgun. Mark Novak details the steps involved in loading gunpowder, wads, and shot, emphasizing safety precautions specific to black powder firearms. He also touches on the mechanics of a flintlock ignition system and the importance of proper wadding for shot deformation.

Quick Summary

Safely loading a black powder shotgun involves using a powder measure for consistent and safe powder charges. Always insert an over-powder wad, potentially with a bit of oil, followed by a cushion wad to protect the shot. Ensure there are no air gaps between powder and projectile to prevent barrel rupture.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Old Technology (VCR)
  2. 00:48Mark Novak: Gun Enthusiast from South Carolina
  3. 01:151730s Finnish English Calling Piece Overview
  4. 01:22Intended Use: Birds and Waterfowl
  5. 01:27Hunting Deer and Ground Targets
  6. 01:53Smoothbore vs. Engraved Firearms
  7. 02:15Loading a Black Powder Shotgun
  8. 02:25Comparison to Shotgun Shell Loading
  9. 02:48Safety: Loading from a Powder Measure
  10. 03:07Loading the Gunpowder Charge
  11. 03:12Recommended Powder Load (70 Grains 2F)
  12. 03:35Over-Powder Wad and Sealing
  13. 03:58Cushion Wad Purpose
  14. 04:19Shot Charge (7/8 oz for 16 Gauge)
  15. 04:26Flintlock Mechanism Explained
  16. 04:58Flintlock Trigger Pull and Ignition
  17. 05:12Ignition Path: Touch Hole to Main Charge
  18. 05:23Danger of Blocked Vent (Flash in the Pan)
  19. 05:34Gun is Loaded and Ready
  20. 05:36Damp Weather Conditions
  21. 05:46No Misfires Despite Dampness
  22. 05:57Priming and Firing
  23. 06:10Challenges in Damp Weather
  24. 06:15Historical Perspective on Percussion Systems
  25. 06:30Filming Considerations
  26. 06:42Potential Firing Outcomes
  27. 06:52Using Finer Granulation Powder (4F) for Priming
  28. 07:14Pan Cover and Protection
  29. 07:18Waterproofing the Pan with Vaseline
  30. 07:24One Shot Opportunity
  31. 07:37The Shot
  32. 07:40Hit Confirmed
  33. 07:46Examining the Pan After Firing
  34. 08:08Custom Firearm Build
  35. 08:11Reason for Building the Firearm
  36. 08:17Building Firearms Since Age 14
  37. 08:20Sourcing Firearm Parts
  38. 08:26Stock from Lodi, Ohio
  39. 08:3444-inch Barrel from Track of the Wolf
  40. 08:42Lock from L R Lock Works, Sumter, SC
  41. 08:53Making Screws and Pins
  42. 08:57100 Hours to Build
  43. 09:00Enjoyment and Performance
  44. 09:14Danger of Air Between Gunpowder
  45. 09:25Black Powder vs. Smokeless Powder Burn
  46. 09:33Exceeding Barrel Bursting Strength
  47. 09:46What Makes it Shoot?
  48. 10:00Experience Shooting Big Rifle
  49. 10:12Black Powder Shotgunning Recommendation
  50. 10:25Filming Timeframe and Age
  51. 10:38Teaching and Enjoyment
  52. 10:45Contact for Black Powder Shotgun Tips
  53. 10:49Video Shot Long Ago, Lessons Learned
  54. 10:55Blast from the Past
  55. 11:01Sharing a Piece of Himself

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you safely load a black powder shotgun like the 1730s Finnish English calling piece?

Safely loading a black powder shotgun involves using a powder measure for consistent and safe powder charges. Always insert an over-powder wad, potentially with a bit of oil, followed by a cushion wad to protect the shot. Ensure there are no air gaps between powder and projectile to prevent barrel rupture.

What are the key components for igniting a flintlock firearm?

Flintlock ignition uses a sharp piece of flint mounted on a hammer. When the trigger is pulled, the flint strikes steel, creating sparks that ignite a small charge of fine granulation powder (like 4F) in the pan. This flash then travels through a touchhole to ignite the main powder charge in the barrel.

What is the purpose of wads in black powder shotgun shells?

Wads in black powder shotgun shells serve multiple purposes. The over-powder wad separates the powder from the shot, and can be lightly oiled to help seal the powder. The cushion wad sits above the over-powder wad and protects the shot from deforming as it accelerates, which is crucial for maintaining a good pattern.

Why is it dangerous to have air between gunpowder and the projectile in a black powder firearm?

Air between gunpowder and the projectile in a black powder firearm is extremely dangerous because black powder burns differently than smokeless powder. If there's room for pressure to build before the projectile moves, it can exceed the barrel's bursting strength, causing it to rupture like a banana.

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