Powder Options for Cap & Ball Revolvers

Published on April 25, 2026
Duration: 8:45

This guide explains powder options for cap and ball revolvers, differentiating between real black powder and substitutes like Pyrodex and Triple Seven. It emphasizes using volume measures for substitutes due to their lighter weight and discusses granulation sizes (FG ratings) suitable for revolvers, with 3FG being the general recommendation. Safety precautions regarding overcharging, especially with brass-framed revolvers, are highlighted.

Quick Summary

For cap and ball revolvers, choose between real black powder or substitutes like Pyrodex and Triple Seven. Always measure substitute powders by volume, as they are lighter than black powder. 3FG granulation is generally recommended for revolvers. Real black powder is less corrosive and easier to clean than substitutes.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Powder Options
  2. 00:40Real Black Powder (Holy Black)
  3. 01:04Substitute Powders: Pyrodex & Triple Seven
  4. 01:28Pros and Cons of Black Powder
  5. 01:41Substitute Powder Corrosiveness & Cleaning
  6. 02:14Using Pyrodex: Volume Measurement
  7. 02:26Volume vs. Weight Measurement
  8. 02:51Cartridge Former as Volume Measure
  9. 03:01Black Powder Measurement Example
  10. 03:21Substitute Powder Weight Difference
  11. 04:18Pyrodex Power Level
  12. 04:42Triple Seven Power and Measurement
  13. 05:23Brass Frame Gun Considerations
  14. 05:31Summary of Measurement Techniques
  15. 06:14Powder Granulation Size
  16. 06:23Understanding FG Ratings (3FG)
  17. 06:34Pyrodex Pistol Powder (P)
  18. 06:49Triple Seven 3FG Label
  19. 06:53FG Granulation Scale (1FG to 4FG)
  20. 07:072FG for Rifles
  21. 07:133FG for Handguns
  22. 07:164FG for Priming Pans
  23. 07:22Using 4FG in Small Revolvers
  24. 07:35General Recommendation: 3FG
  25. 08:00Guns of the West Online Course
  26. 08:22Contact and Social Media

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main powder options for cap and ball revolvers?

The primary options are real black powder, often called 'holy black,' and substitute powders like Pyrodex and Triple Seven. Real black powder is historically accurate, easier to clean, and less corrosive. Substitutes are common but can be more corrosive and gum up firearms more.

How should I measure powder for my cap and ball revolver?

For real black powder, both volume and weight measurements are generally interchangeable. However, for substitute powders like Pyrodex and Triple Seven, it is crucial to measure by volume because they are lighter than black powder.

What is the difference between Pyrodex and Triple Seven powders?

Pyrodex is a substitute powder that can be used in a 1:1 volume ratio with black powder for similar performance, though it offers slightly more power. Triple Seven is significantly more powerful than black powder and Pyrodex, requiring a reduced volume charge (about 15% less) to match black powder performance.

What granulation size powder is best for cap and ball revolvers?

The recommended granulation size for cap and ball revolvers is typically 3FG. Larger granulations like 1FG are for cannons, 2FG for rifles, and very fine 4FG is usually reserved for flintlock priming pans.

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