How Much Powder for Black Powder Revolvers?

Published on April 23, 2026
Duration: 1:59

This video provides expert guidance on appropriate black powder charges for various cap and ball revolvers. The instructor, with apparent extensive experience, details specific grain recommendations for .31 caliber pocket revolvers (10-12 grains), .36 caliber belt pistols like the 1861 Navy (17-20 grains), .44 caliber holster pistols with brass frames (20 grains) and steel frames (25-30 grains), and the Colt Walker (.44 caliber, 40 grains recommended over its 60-grain capacity). The benefits of using paper cartridges for efficiency and fun are also highlighted.

Quick Summary

For .31 caliber cap and ball revolvers like the Uberti Wells Fargo, 10-12 grains of black powder is recommended. For .36 caliber 1861 Navy Colts, 17-20 grains is ideal. .44 caliber revolvers with brass frames should use around 20 grains, while steel frames can handle 25-30 grains. The Colt Walker performs best with 40 grains, not its maximum 60-grain capacity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Powder Charge for Cap and Ball Revolvers
  2. 00:04.31 Caliber Wells Fargo Revolver Load
  3. 00:13Paper Cartridges Explained
  4. 00:34.36 Caliber 1861 Navy Colt Load
  5. 00:56.44 Caliber Holster Pistol Load (Brass vs. Steel Frame)
  6. 01:22Colt Walker Revolver Load Recommendations
  7. 01:57Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended powder charge for a .31 caliber cap and ball revolver like the Uberti Wells Fargo?

For a .31 caliber Uberti Wells Fargo revolver, the general recommendation for black powder charge is between 10 and 12 grains. This provides a good balance for this smaller caliber firearm.

How much powder should I use in a .36 caliber 1861 Navy Colt revolver?

For a .36 caliber 1861 Navy Colt, you can use as little as 15 grains to conserve powder. However, 17 grains is considered a better sweet spot for performance, and 20 grains can offer even better results.

What's the difference in powder charges for .44 caliber revolvers with brass versus steel frames?

For .44 caliber revolvers with brass frames, it's recommended to use around 20 grains of powder to help preserve the frame's longevity. Steel frames can safely handle higher charges, typically starting at 25 grains and going up to 30 grains.

Is it best to load a Colt Walker revolver to its maximum powder capacity?

While a Colt Walker can hold up to 60 grains of powder, testing indicates that 40 grains is the sweet spot for consistent and best performance. Loading to maximum capacity may lead to wasted powder and less reliable results.

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