One minor point, most felt wads contaminate the powder charge. Only use the wads if your going to shoot immediately. If loading for hunting where the shot could be tomorrow or the next day, lube over the ball.
I would think that most lubes would melt (at least a bit) & foul the powder if any heat (from whatever) is involved - but understand that others may have no choice, living/shooting/hunting where it's usually very warm to hot. I'm trying to lube the round ball with some Ballistol, and then seat it in the cylinder and see what outcome that gives with the powder charge after a few days/weeks.
Lube type, weather where you reside and size of ball or conical all factor into that as well. Here in Texas summer, bore butter will melt in the cylinder, run past the ball or conical seeping into powder and dampen it. Try using a firm lube like lamb tallow/beeswax, swaging down a projectile slightly larger than what it uses from factory (a .44 using .451 can do better with .454). I prefer dry wads that I can lube slightly on the barrel side myself so I can store it or shoot in summer and my .44-.45 uses .457 projectiles which cut a good size lead ring, leaving a tight seal that guards against wad leaking into powder. It can be abit of a science to get them more reliable. I recommend Winchester and Remington #10 or #11 caps over CCI and this setup serves me best.
I am trying to catch up to all of your videos. I began shooting single-shot percussion pistols a while back and finally took the leap to percussion revolvers beginning with a Uberti 1851 Colt Navy. I now have a (almost) complete set of (key) percussion revolvers: the Colt Paterson being the last want of the series. I am slowly going through each revolver to update the cones. The Uberti 1858 Remington conversion revolver was really what made me to decide to explore the percussion revolver world. I am more at home with these revolvers than with many of my more modern revolvers and pistols. Great content, by the way!
I recommend if you are going to get heavy to C&B revolvers, get multiple cylinders and a bench top loader. I like to have 4 extra per revolver. This was a common practice during the uncivil war amongst mounted soldiers, as it was easier and faster to swap cylinders, especially when mounted. Upgrade the nipples for sure, and at least give conical balls a try as well (I use them exclusively). Great video! Especially for those just getting started with C&B revolver shooting!!!
Thank you for the Slixprings reference. I have had problems over the years with soft nipple wrenches bending and becoming useless. That or improperly sized to fit into the recesses on the cylinder.
I am a Finn living in Sweden and I like your channel with so much great information about black powder guns. I bought an original Remington 44 and i have been to the shooting range twice this summer. In Sweden we have quite tough laws against guns, but weapons made before 1895 that is black powder is allowed, but somehow the powder and caps is getting harder to get it seems. I have bought Pyrodex as you show in this video, but really want real black powder. Ubertis and Pedersolis is not allowed by the law because they are new, but an original black powder is allowed, very strange gun laws here in Sweden. I love to shoot with a black powder revolver, very awesome! Do you ship stuff to Sweden? So many things I need for my Remington that you show in this video. Keep up the good work.
@@GunsOfTheWest Hello sir, Do you have an idea why caps are not in stock on store shelves in last 4 yrs ?? For these are for antique firearms and small cannons,, all for weekend warriors for the most part. Guys just out having a little fun... No real harm going on with these antique firearms these days...Nobody would ever use these against a modern Army.. So what do you think is going on.. And yes real BLACK POWDER is out there to purchase... Maybe Jesus will come soon and we won't have to worry about such things anymore... God bless you and may God watch over you and your family
When I load my 45 Colt cartridges with Goex fffg black powder I use a wonder wad and I also use an over the powder card that I punch out to keep it from contaminating the powder. I also been loading with bh209 and I don't use any wads because the bh209 doesn't faul up a revolver like real black powder. Good video.
I purchased many cans FF Goex back in the 80s here and there in the metal cans and still have around 7 pounds in the old metal cans. Back then it was 7 bucks a pound.
There is a little shop near me called Florida Shooting Supplies. That probably don’t help you much. But maybe Midland USA? I haven’t checked them though.
Im having alot of trouble finding all the supplies. And all i can find for caps are tins if 1000 for $100. The paper cartridges are super expensive too. I have a 1858 with the brass frame.
best i could find is muzzle-loader had them for "$15" but its actually $55 with hazmat fees. couldnt find in person had to bite the bullet and buy those. sucks but whatever i wont be shooting too often, in person stores said they had major issues sourcing ammo
I've had the whole pandemic to get hooked in by watching probably hundreds of hours of videos about percussion revolvers. I even got to renew my license, that I let expire a decade ago (it lasts 5 years here in Italy) when I stopped doing target shooting competitions. I was quite sure about the Remington 1858 NMA, but lately I've grown fond of the '51 Army, especially the London model. I love octagonal barrels and I like the idea of a small, agreeable yet accurate and less expensive caliber like the .36, being used to a .22 carbine (50 meters / 55 yards) and a 4,5 mm Olympic air rifle (10 meters / 11 yards). A few days ago my pesky girlfriend told me she likes the 1861 better. Now I can't decide anymore which one I should get: the 1851 or the 1861?
One thing I’ve experienced, mainly from the younger RSO’s. Let’s just say,their exposure to cap and ball revolvers can be very limited. I had a twenty something that basically freaked out on me and called for a range safety stop because I was loading my pistol. I explained that it was a black powder pistol. He told me he wasn’t comfortable with the way I was handling my firearm. Luckily there was an older RSO at the rifle side of the range that explained to him the loading process. (The half cock hammer was the point of confusion for our young man). I have since started using a loading block at public ranges. I still have to explain the process, and demonstrate the half cock position from time to time. Mainly if it’s a new RSO.
Nice one Dustin. I have been using black powder firearms since the mid seventies here in the UK, a Uberti Colt Walker and a Parker Hale 1853 3 Band Enfield. (I have one of your paper cartridge kits for the Colt) And I still found this video relevant and interesting.
@@GunsOfTheWest Dustin, would u recommend wearing some kind of gloves when handlng lead bullets? I have had black stain from touching them and its kind hard to wash off plus i hear can expose to cancer
@@CountryCampers Hello Jim, yes. When casting your own lead bullets, use heavy work gloves that have long cuffs. When handling lead bullets to make paper cartridges for example, use those thin close fitting gloves used by vehicle technicians etc. Good luck.
I am from Italy just bought my first cap and ball 1860 army uberti and I love it I hope to find the powder and caps to try it soon! I will follow your channel a lot as I did even before buying it.
Great video. I would recommend including a short dowel to press the percussion cap onto the nipple to make sure the cap is firmly seated. I've heard stories of shooters using their thumb and having the cap go off.
I personally prefer my 44 Dragoons over my 36 Paterson and Navy. I even like them better than my 44 Walker or Army. The big frames are less prone to cap jams and hold 50 gains of powder for big booms.
Just received my GOTW paper cartridge kit… thank you! I will be first time rolling ball paper cartridges in .36 this weekend… I just received a (hard to find nowadays) Pietta 1861 Navy… gave it a good initial cleaning like in your how-to videos. I used soapy water to clean and the REM Oil after because Ballistol is so difficult to find here in Northern California. A bit of news, I found one store 45 minutes drive from where I’m at that carried percussion caps in CCI #11 only, I was so happy finally there is supply… when I got to the store, limit was 2 100ct tins! GOEX fffg no can find! Thank You Justin for turning me on to BP revolvers. I’ve got the 1851 and 1861, just need a side by side coach, and a lever action then next is to join up with the local SASS clubs. 🤗
I always use your paper cartridge kit. It was so fun to bring it into the local shop with finshed cartridges including ratshot loads I made by putting 8 shot in a 44 caliber bullet mold and poured in hot candle wax.
@@samspencer582 ratshot loads is ammo that instead of one large bullet you use lots of tiny lead shot held together in either a capsule or in mu case wax
Love your videos! I have my first muzzle loaders, a cva wolf rifle, traditions flintlock (cant find 4f to use in pan) and a Pietta .44 revolver which is the only one i have hot so far. Keep up the good work!
Thank you Dustin I enjoyed the video and I wished I had this before I bought mine I love mine to death it is a fully engraved model not only the cylinder but the frame and the barrel and the back strap but it is a brass frame so I've cut the load down to 12 grains so I don't do damage and it is very accurate with 12 at 20 yards felt wads and your Lube over the ball slick shot nipples using number 11 CCI caps thank you. Joe security
I usually use black powder - but I have burned 2 pounds of triple 7 in my Pietta brass framed 1851 with no sign whatsoever of frame stretching, the gun is as tight as it was when I purchased it 18 years ago. I think frame stretching for the most part is a problem that was fixed a long time ago.
I just bought my first cap and ball revolver this week, an 1858 new model army sherrif. First thing I learned was I can't buy percussion caps. Bought a percussion cap making kit and some primeall and am looking into the trick where you are able to use small pistol primers by putting tubing around the nipples.
Would love to get a Cap an Ball revolver like Cullen Bohannon used in Hell on Wheels. I do have an old original percussion cap and .50 ball Enfield carbine, great rifle for big game, small game? Not so much
I 've been a Civil War re enactor for over 39 yrs. and have seen it all. I shoot a Whitneyville Walker .44 cal. .When I shoot a ( live round ) AT THE SHOOTING RANGE I load as usual, powder ,ball, then wax. As for the WAX , the BEST wax that I have found is ( ready for this ) toilet seal wax ring . Sounds funky , but this wax is the best sealer I have ever used and it wont melt under extreme heat. Just go to any store that has plumbing and pick up a new wax ring . this ring will last for a long time .
I’ve actually done a couple already. Here are the links: th-cam.com/video/ryziyuC1WSM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1kfDQ0FYMl6tU8eW th-cam.com/video/dn9xjnQaff8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=X8Tzg8DO1VSHeZXr Thanks for watching!
I’m into cowboy mounted shooting. Back during the primer shortage I started using cap and ball revolvers whilst on horseback during my practice sessions. They work good for practice but not ideal like a colt single action army. 1st the caps tend to come out when you cock and fall between the hammer and cylinder which is problematic. I made my own caps with tin cans by the way which is why that happened a lot because caps were also in short supply.
That's encouraging, but I prefer the Remingtons anyway. They're better and more strongly built (which means in the case of an unintended KABOOM you'll likely still have all your fingers afterwards) 😁
Real good advice. Thanks for producing this video. I'm real new to this whole cap & ball thing, as in just took possession of my first revolver today. Got all the accessories necessary but had to order caps online as they were not available in my area stores anyplace. Paid an exorbitant price but there were none other available. Same thing with black powder. None of that available, had to go with Pyrodex and as it was, got the last jar in stock at Bass Pro.
Pyrodex has always been my go to. 1) Easier in my area to obtain 2) gotta little more behind it than black. But for the most part it is plentiful in my area. even before the "pandemic" unobtainium was the name of black powder, even when on shelf generally $8 to $15 more on the pound. I quit making black powder, well because I`d rather shoot. As always you are correct and great video none the less
I took the plunge and ordered one of your 36 caliber kits. I can't wait to start making cartridges. Had to go to the Pyrodex though, no real BP anywhere. I did find myself a 36 Griswold & Gunnison Pistol as well!
Having been into BP revolvers for over ten years I can't say there is anything I disagree with here. About the only thing I'd add is that you're GOING to want a capper eventually so I'd put it in the must-have category. The Ted Cash snail capper works fantastic.
I own a flintlock pistol and a couple of percussion rifles, the caps are kind of a rare find in my state. I would like to find a working matchlock and wheellock, but something tells me I may have better luck finding a revolver.
Try Access Heritage for a matchlock, but you will have to drill your own touch hole. Wheellocks are not to be found, outside of multi tens of thousands of dollar originals. Never heard of a repro.
@@bedeodempsey5007 I'll probably have to win the lottery or learn gunsmithing if I want the wheel lock. I looked up Access Heritage and the matchlock is surprisingly affordable.
@@wolfman1662 I have fired my Bess several times with no problem. Only issue was not enough spark to ignite the pan. Could be my flints or the 2f, rather than 4f, powder. Great price though, at about half a Pedersoli.
Thank you, your video was very informative. I'm excited to soon be embarking on my cap-n-ball journey, looking to purchase my all-time favorite, the 1858 Remington. Liked, subscribed and ambitiously following!
Hey Dustin Will My 36 Cal Revolver take .375'' Round balls? Im only wondering because I put a .375'' round ball at the Top of the Barrel And it would not fall down the Barrel.
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CANT FIND CAPS ANYWHERE!! I live in California (feel free to joke about that in a comment, no offense taken) and its damn near impossible to find percussion caps here. There's a kit on .22 Reloaders store that sells percussion cap making kits! Theyre simple, cheap to make, and a good backup for during the cap droughts. They reccomend making them out of used soda cans, but i've found that making them out of .005" brass or copper is more time period correct, aestetically pleasing, and better funtioning for only a slight additional fee. I reccomend making them in batches of 50 to keep risks and workloads low. They have a powder called PrimeAll that when mixed and wetted with acetone, hardens into a proper power. You can also use a drop of Duco Cement from walmart to help give the powder a better seating into the cap. Most revolvers require the No. 10 dye. I have a Remington 1858 NM Army and it seats perfectly fine. Any revolvers with larger nipples or rifles/shotguns will use the No. 11. Both casting dyes cost $50 each, but they'll last ages if you dont abuse it. The prime all powder is $12 for ~2000 shots worth of powder. At least, thats their claim. Just remember to stay safe while making it, and use proper safety!
Have you ever made a video on hunting with cap and ball pistols? I was considering buying a replica 1858 Remington (44 cal) steel receiver. I would assume they're over 400 foot pounds at 50yds for white tails, but that would be the minimum for my state. I don't mind sitting and doing the math, but I love to hear from experienced shooters and their thoughts.
Unfortunately for me, it's next to impossible to find even black powder supplies without going to a licensed dealer. I can't even order powder or caps online, much less a black powder revolver. The round balls are the only thing I can get online nowadays.
@Number 1 Western Fan It's the strict gun laws that went into effect following Sandy Hook. My Governor of the time made it illegal to buy so much as a black powder revolver online, or buy them out of state and bring them across state lines. Thanks a lot for ruining it for me, kid whose name I don't remember. Sandy Hook ruined everything.
Couldn't find actual perc. caps so i had to get one of those kits to make them out of soda cans. Time consuming and wont work well with cappers, but definitely better than nothing
You mentioned softer screws, can you replace them with better screws? And if so, where to get?? Thank you and am loving your vids due to getting back into C n P.
I still have a couple cans of DuPont FFF black powder. I have a can of superfine black rifle powder. A purple can and a blue can I don’t use them i have then as collectables
Outstanding video ! Just about everything I needed to know about my black powder gun. By the way, l got a question for you regarding the 1858 pietta New Army Target .44 cal. and the "Taylor's n Company conversion cylinder". Will the Winchester .45 long colt 255 gr round nose flat tip ammo work with that conversion cylinder ??? Thank you.
Is it possible to use airgun slugs? They’re a lot more accessible to me and they seem to be the same as the conical bullets marketed for bp guns. I was also wondering if using a „lube groove“ is sufficient to lubricate the round instead of using a wad or putting lube on the bullet after loading.
I'd love to get into cap and ball shooting but I can't find caps anywhere. I'm hesitant to drop the money on a revolver if I'm going to have trouble finding caps
Guy, if you are shooting your cap and ball revolvers, just where are you getting your caps? I haven't been able to buy them in over 2 years locally or online. Do you have a secret source? Maybe I should try making my own!
I challenge you to tell us where we can buy #10 Remington percussion caps. Every place I have checked they are out of stock. The only ones I have seen are made for BP rifles.
Hi, I load 20 grains in my Remington 1858 with a brass frame and 12" barrel. It is a .44 cal though. You might want to go with 15 grains in a .36 cal. My brass frame is also a Pietta and so far no issues with 20 grains and a standard round ball. But, brass is soft so don't try to push things to the max. The owner's manual has a chart that tells suggested loads in both black powder and pyrodex. They are light loads but very safe.
I was told by one of my dealers, the only one that sells real blackpowder, that Goex had either gone out of business or the company that owned Goex had discontinued it. I don’t. Recall which. Is this incorrect?
Thank you for this video. I am new to blackpowder and I am learning quite a bit from your channel. I do have one question and I'm sorry if it seems silly. Can I use paper cartridges in a Pietta 1851 44 cal. Sheriff's model (4.75 barrel)? This shorter barrel pistol is easier for me to handle but I've only seen people using cartridges on a full size 7.5 barrel. Any advice would be much appreciated and thank you for all your informative videos. 🙏
Hi, Linda! The paper cartridges will work as well in that gun as in the ones with longer barrels. Here’s the link to my website where paper cartridge kits are available: gunsoftheweststore.com Thanks for watching!
Is it possible to use airgun ammo instead of the stuff marketed towards bp guns? For me, airgun ammo is much easier to get and a lot of it seems to be identical to the bp conical bullets.
With percussion caps being so hard to find, some people are making caps. I have not seen anyone using FFFF in the caps. Could this work by putting a measured amount powder in the cap and adding a couple drops of alcohol ?
Can you make a "buckshot" cartridge for a .44 black powder revolver and if so will it damage the revolver? So after using all my .44 balls to make a cartridge I ran out so I got to thinking can I make a buckshot cartridge from using little metal bbs .177s from my airsoft rifles?
@@andrewgates8158 Thank you. I'm glad that another company was able to step up to the plate and keep our only domestic black powder brand going. That really makes my day!
i used magnum #11 with ffg in a pistol .44....blanks load...seemed really weak....maybe over primed? 20 grains....... I put it in a cardboard box and pull the sound was not loud....
Hey BP shooters, 1st timer here getting into it. I have a question, if any of y'all can answer? So on my Pietta 1851(snub), I was putting CCI 11 caps on the nipples to see how they would fit. So I put one on and lowered the hammer onto the nipple with cap on it, now when this happens I can't cock back the hammer again. Unless I try to do it once or twice and I hear a click and now I can pull the hammer back again. Does this happen because the hammer can't properly finish seating when there's a cap installed there, so it stays locked until it properly sits and I hear the click and is this why it's better to leave it on an empty cylinder for reliability also? The hammer will strike the cap fine, it just can't rest on it without getting locked up when you pull back.
It took me a minute to figure out but I think i recreated the problem on my Remington new model army (also a Pietta) what i believe is happening is as the hammer passes the halfcock notch the hand moves to it's next notch ready to index the cylinder also at this point the cylinder stop locks in place so if the hammer doesn't come all the way down the cylinder stop stays put so when you try and pull the hammer back again it's trying to turn the locked cylinder (i hope that makes sense) as for what would cause that I'm not really sure maybe the caps don't fit right and are preventing the hammer from going far enough or possibly your action parts are installed incorrectly and that's causing weird problems other than that I'd probably try to explain the problem to a gunsmith. Really hope you get it fixed man happy shooting
@@Grain_side_carving Thanks for your time and advice ! I do believe you're right, the 11 caps make the hammer not properly seat on the snub nose. I'll have to try #10
Check out the Guns of the West store here: gunsoftheweststore.com
One minor point, most felt wads contaminate the powder charge. Only use the wads if your going to shoot immediately. If loading for hunting where the shot could be tomorrow or the next day, lube over the ball.
Makes sense
I would think that most lubes would melt (at least a bit) & foul the powder if any heat (from whatever) is involved - but understand that others may have no choice, living/shooting/hunting where it's usually very warm to hot.
I'm trying to lube the round ball with some Ballistol, and then seat it in the cylinder and see what outcome that gives with the powder charge after a few days/weeks.
@@JM-zz3vs doesnt need to melt... Gun powder is hydroscopic, meaning it soaks up water
@@JM-zz3vs as long as you're getting a ring of lead when you seat the ball it shouldn't be able to get to the powder
Lube type, weather where you reside and size of ball or conical all factor into that as well. Here in Texas summer, bore butter will melt in the cylinder, run past the ball or conical seeping into powder and dampen it. Try using a firm lube like lamb tallow/beeswax, swaging down a projectile slightly larger than what it uses from factory (a .44 using .451 can do better with .454).
I prefer dry wads that I can lube slightly on the barrel side myself so I can store it or shoot in summer and my .44-.45 uses .457 projectiles which cut a good size lead ring, leaving a tight seal that guards against wad leaking into powder. It can be abit of a science to get them more reliable. I recommend Winchester and Remington #10 or #11 caps over CCI and this setup serves me best.
Love the info. Great guide.
Thanks, Santee!
I am trying to catch up to all of your videos. I began shooting single-shot percussion pistols a while back and finally took the leap to percussion revolvers beginning with a Uberti 1851 Colt Navy. I now have a (almost) complete set of (key) percussion revolvers: the Colt Paterson being the last want of the series. I am slowly going through each revolver to update the cones. The Uberti 1858 Remington conversion revolver was really what made me to decide to explore the percussion revolver world. I am more at home with these revolvers than with many of my more modern revolvers and pistols. Great content, by the way!
Just had a chance to shoot several cap & ball guns! Really FUN! Your videos for beginners are SUPER HELPFUL! Gene
I recommend if you are going to get heavy to C&B revolvers, get multiple cylinders and a bench top loader. I like to have 4 extra per revolver. This was a common practice during the uncivil war amongst mounted soldiers, as it was easier and faster to swap cylinders, especially when mounted. Upgrade the nipples for sure, and at least give conical balls a try as well (I use them exclusively).
Great video! Especially for those just getting started with C&B revolver shooting!!!
Thank you for the Slixprings reference. I have had problems over the years with soft nipple wrenches bending and becoming useless. That or improperly sized to fit into the recesses on the cylinder.
The Slix Wrench is really great!
I am a Finn living in Sweden and I like your channel with so much great information about black powder guns. I bought an original Remington 44 and i have been to the shooting range twice this summer. In Sweden we have quite tough laws against guns, but weapons made before 1895 that is black powder is allowed, but somehow the powder and caps is getting harder to get it seems. I have bought Pyrodex as you show in this video, but really want real black powder. Ubertis and Pedersolis is not allowed by the law because they are new, but an original black powder is allowed, very strange gun laws here in Sweden. I love to shoot with a black powder revolver, very awesome! Do you ship stuff to Sweden? So many things I need for my Remington that you show in this video. Keep up the good work.
My products do ship to Sweden. Here’s the link: gunsoftheweststore.com
@@harvdog5669 They are hard to get because they are so difficult to find.
@@GunsOfTheWest Hello sir,
Do you have an idea why caps are not in stock on store shelves in last 4 yrs ?? For these are for antique firearms and small cannons,, all for weekend warriors for the most part.
Guys just out having a little fun...
No real harm going on with these antique firearms these days...Nobody would ever use these against a modern Army..
So what do you think is going on..
And yes real BLACK POWDER is out there to purchase...
Maybe Jesus will come soon and we won't have to worry about such things anymore...
God bless you and may God watch over you and your family
@@lurch789 I really must try to make own powder.
@@samspencer582easy, move to a non communist country. Lol
When I load my 45 Colt cartridges with Goex fffg black powder I use a wonder wad and I also use an over the powder card that I punch out to keep it from contaminating the powder. I also been loading with bh209 and I don't use any wads because the bh209 doesn't faul up a revolver like real black powder.
Good video.
I love me some Black Powder stuff. More work but a lot of fun too!
Amen!
Just ordered up my first BP, a Uberti 1861 navy. Want to thank you for the information you provide.
But percussion caps no where to buy. What is gained. 5 12 2024.
I purchased many cans FF Goex back in the 80s here and there in the metal cans and still have around 7 pounds in the old metal cans. Back then it was 7 bucks a pound.
I just bought my first cap and ball revolver yesterday. A Pietta 1858 Remington New ARMY in .44. Thank you for the video.
Where you buying percussion caps???
There is a little shop near me called Florida Shooting Supplies. That probably don’t help you much. But maybe Midland USA? I haven’t checked them though.
Im having alot of trouble finding all the supplies. And all i can find for caps are tins if 1000 for $100. The paper cartridges are super expensive too. I have a 1858 with the brass frame.
best i could find is muzzle-loader had them for "$15" but its actually $55 with hazmat fees. couldnt find in person had to bite the bullet and buy those. sucks but whatever i wont be shooting too often, in person stores said they had major issues sourcing ammo
I've had the whole pandemic to get hooked in by watching probably hundreds of hours of videos about percussion revolvers. I even got to renew my license, that I let expire a decade ago (it lasts 5 years here in Italy) when I stopped doing target shooting competitions.
I was quite sure about the Remington 1858 NMA, but lately I've grown fond of the '51 Army, especially the London model. I love octagonal barrels and I like the idea of a small, agreeable yet accurate and less expensive caliber like the .36, being used to a .22 carbine (50 meters / 55 yards) and a 4,5 mm Olympic air rifle (10 meters / 11 yards).
A few days ago my pesky girlfriend told me she likes the 1861 better. Now I can't decide anymore which one I should get: the 1851 or the 1861?
This gives me an idea to do a video on the various bp retailers.
One thing I’ve experienced, mainly from the younger RSO’s. Let’s just say,their exposure to cap and ball revolvers can be very limited. I had a twenty something that basically freaked out on me and called for a range safety stop because I was loading my pistol. I explained that it was a black powder pistol. He told me he wasn’t comfortable with the way I was handling my firearm. Luckily there was an older RSO at the rifle side of the range that explained to him the loading process. (The half cock hammer was the point of confusion for our young man). I have since started using a loading block at public ranges. I still have to explain the process, and demonstrate the half cock position from time to time. Mainly if it’s a new RSO.
Thats gay I'm sorry you have to deal with people that don't spend 3 second to look something up
New to black powder, so I appreciate all the info. Thank you
Nice one Dustin. I have been using black powder firearms since the mid seventies here in the UK, a Uberti Colt Walker and a Parker Hale 1853 3 Band Enfield. (I have one of your paper cartridge kits for the Colt) And I still found this video relevant and interesting.
Thanks!
@@GunsOfTheWest Dustin, would u recommend wearing some kind of gloves when handlng lead bullets? I have had black stain from touching them and its kind hard to wash off plus i hear can expose to cancer
@@CountryCampers Hello Jim, yes. When casting your own lead bullets, use heavy work gloves that have long cuffs. When handling lead bullets to make paper cartridges for example, use those thin close fitting gloves used by vehicle technicians etc. Good luck.
I am from Italy just bought my first cap and ball 1860 army uberti and I love it I hope to find the powder and caps to try it soon!
I will follow your channel a lot as I did even before buying it.
Great video. I would recommend including a short dowel to press the percussion cap onto the nipple to make sure the cap is firmly seated. I've heard stories of shooters using their thumb and having the cap go off.
I personally prefer my 44 Dragoons over my 36 Paterson and Navy. I even like them better than my 44 Walker or Army. The big frames are less prone to cap jams and hold 50 gains of powder for big booms.
Just received my GOTW paper cartridge kit… thank you! I will be first time rolling ball paper cartridges in .36 this weekend… I just received a (hard to find nowadays) Pietta 1861 Navy… gave it a good initial cleaning like in your how-to videos. I used soapy water to clean and the REM Oil after because Ballistol is so difficult to find here in Northern California. A bit of news, I found one store 45 minutes drive from where I’m at that carried percussion caps in CCI #11 only, I was so happy finally there is supply… when I got to the store, limit was 2 100ct tins! GOEX fffg no can find! Thank You Justin for turning me on to BP revolvers. I’ve got the 1851 and 1861, just need a side by side coach, and a lever action then next is to join up with the local SASS clubs. 🤗
I always use your paper cartridge kit. It was so fun to bring it into the local shop with finshed cartridges including ratshot loads I made by putting 8 shot in a 44 caliber bullet mold and poured in hot candle wax.
What is a ratshot load? I am a beginner so I haven’t heard of it yet.
@@samspencer582 ratshot loads is ammo that instead of one large bullet you use lots of tiny lead shot held together in either a capsule or in mu case wax
@@Brennan_the_smith Thank you Brennan.
Love your videos! I have my first muzzle loaders, a cva wolf rifle, traditions flintlock (cant find 4f to use in pan) and a Pietta .44 revolver which is the only one i have hot so far. Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much for this video!! Been looking into my first purchase of a Pietta 1858 and had no clue what I would need.
Thank you Dustin I enjoyed the video and I wished I had this before I bought mine I love mine to death it is a fully engraved model not only the cylinder but the frame and the barrel and the back strap but it is a brass frame so I've cut the load down to 12 grains so I don't do damage and it is very accurate with 12 at 20 yards felt wads and your Lube over the ball slick shot nipples using number 11 CCI caps thank you. Joe security
Thanks Dustin for an informative video!
My pleasure! Thanks for watching!
Just picked up kits for my .31 and .44. They should make things a lot more fun
I usually use black powder - but I have burned 2 pounds of triple 7 in my Pietta brass framed 1851 with no sign whatsoever of frame stretching, the gun is as tight as it was when I purchased it 18 years ago. I think frame stretching for the most part is a problem that was fixed a long time ago.
I just bought my first cap and ball revolver this week, an 1858 new model army sherrif. First thing I learned was I can't buy percussion caps. Bought a percussion cap making kit and some primeall and am looking into the trick where you are able to use small pistol primers by putting tubing around the nipples.
Would love to get a Cap an Ball revolver like Cullen Bohannon used in Hell on Wheels. I do have an old original percussion cap and .50 ball Enfield carbine, great rifle for big game, small game? Not so much
Thanks for posting this video!!! I've been looking forward to this exact video from you for a long time!!
Thanks for watching!
I 've been a Civil War re enactor for over 39 yrs. and have seen it all. I shoot a Whitneyville Walker .44 cal. .When I shoot a ( live round ) AT THE SHOOTING RANGE I load as usual, powder ,ball, then wax. As for the WAX , the BEST wax that I have found is ( ready for this ) toilet seal wax ring . Sounds funky , but this wax is the best sealer I have ever used and it wont melt under extreme heat. Just go to any store that has plumbing and pick up a new wax ring . this ring will last for a long time .
Could you do a video on powder pellets
I’ve actually done a couple already. Here are the links: th-cam.com/video/ryziyuC1WSM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1kfDQ0FYMl6tU8eW
th-cam.com/video/dn9xjnQaff8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=X8Tzg8DO1VSHeZXr
Thanks for watching!
Hello.
Love the videos.
Something ive noticed is that loads are different between brass frame revolvers and steel frame revolvers!
Thanks
Thanks Dustin, very well done and helpful.
Love your videos and products.
Thanks!
Great video, Dustin (as always)
Thanks!
I’m into cowboy mounted shooting. Back during the primer shortage I started using cap and ball revolvers whilst on horseback during my practice sessions. They work good for practice but not ideal like a colt single action army. 1st the caps tend to come out when you cock and fall between the hammer and cylinder which is problematic. I made my own caps with tin cans by the way which is why that happened a lot because caps were also in short supply.
Colts are infamous for cap jamming i don't know what you have but I've never seen that problem on a Remington
That's encouraging, but I prefer the Remingtons anyway. They're better and more strongly built (which means in the case of an unintended KABOOM you'll likely still have all your fingers afterwards) 😁
Real good advice. Thanks for producing this video. I'm real new to this whole cap & ball thing, as in just took possession of my first revolver today. Got all the accessories necessary but had to order caps online as they were not available in my area stores anyplace. Paid an exorbitant price but there were none other available. Same thing with black powder. None of that available, had to go with Pyrodex and as it was, got the last jar in stock at Bass Pro.
Pyrodex has always been my go to. 1) Easier in my area to obtain 2) gotta little more behind it than black. But for the most part it is plentiful in my area. even before the "pandemic" unobtainium was the name of black powder, even when on shelf generally $8 to $15 more on the pound. I quit making black powder, well because I`d rather shoot. As always you are correct and great video none the less
Did you make black powder to use in your firearms? That’s very cool!
I took the plunge and ordered one of your 36 caliber kits. I can't wait to start making cartridges. Had to go to the Pyrodex though, no real BP anywhere. I did find myself a 36 Griswold & Gunnison Pistol as well!
Just found you. And I bookmarked your store page. I plan on getting some products from you.
Having been into BP revolvers for over ten years I can't say there is anything I disagree with here. About the only thing I'd add is that you're GOING to want a capper eventually so I'd put it in the must-have category. The Ted Cash snail capper works fantastic.
I use krisco in my revolver no issue.
Crisco
Im using the CCI #10 caps for my 44 rem
Where you finding them.
@@rogergoodwin5533 Im getting em from a gun shop. He sells black powder stuff now too
I own a flintlock pistol and a couple of percussion rifles, the caps are kind of a rare find in my state. I would like to find a working matchlock and wheellock, but something tells me I may have better luck finding a revolver.
Try Access Heritage for a matchlock, but you will have to drill your own touch hole. Wheellocks are not to be found, outside of multi tens of thousands of dollar originals. Never heard of a repro.
@@bedeodempsey5007 I'll probably have to win the lottery or learn gunsmithing if I want the wheel lock. I looked up Access Heritage and the matchlock is surprisingly affordable.
@@wolfman1662 yep. I bought the early model Brown Bess. Would love to get the matchlock arquebus.
@@bedeodempsey5007 are they capable of handling the stresses?
@@wolfman1662 I have fired my Bess several times with no problem. Only issue was not enough spark to ignite the pan. Could be my flints or the 2f, rather than 4f, powder. Great price though, at about half a Pedersoli.
The Remington #10 fit perfect on mine but they won't fit in cappers that enclose the cap due to being deeper cups.
Thank you, your video was very informative. I'm excited to soon be embarking on my cap-n-ball journey, looking to purchase my all-time favorite, the 1858 Remington. Liked, subscribed and ambitiously following!
Hey Dustin Will My 36 Cal Revolver take .375'' Round balls?
Im only wondering because I put a .375'' round ball at the Top of the Barrel And it would not fall down the Barrel.
Yeah, that’s the size I use. The lead is soft and the blast will force it through the bore.
Thx@@GunsOfTheWest
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CANT FIND CAPS ANYWHERE!!
I live in California (feel free to joke about that in a comment, no offense taken) and its damn near impossible to find percussion caps here.
There's a kit on .22 Reloaders store that sells percussion cap making kits! Theyre simple, cheap to make, and a good backup for during the cap droughts.
They reccomend making them out of used soda cans, but i've found that making them out of .005" brass or copper is more time period correct, aestetically pleasing, and better funtioning for only a slight additional fee.
I reccomend making them in batches of 50 to keep risks and workloads low. They have a powder called PrimeAll that when mixed and wetted with acetone, hardens into a proper power. You can also use a drop of Duco Cement from walmart to help give the powder a better seating into the cap.
Most revolvers require the No. 10 dye. I have a Remington 1858 NM Army and it seats perfectly fine. Any revolvers with larger nipples or rifles/shotguns will use the No. 11.
Both casting dyes cost $50 each, but they'll last ages if you dont abuse it. The prime all powder is $12 for ~2000 shots worth of powder. At least, thats their claim.
Just remember to stay safe while making it, and use proper safety!
Sportsman warehouse have the cci #11 I just bought some a week ago
My local Sportsmans Warehouse also just got caps again after a very long drought.
I’m only getting one because it’s the gun a character in my favorite show uses
Have you ever made a video on hunting with cap and ball pistols? I was considering buying a replica 1858 Remington (44 cal) steel receiver. I would assume they're over 400 foot pounds at 50yds for white tails, but that would be the minimum for my state. I don't mind sitting and doing the math, but I love to hear from experienced shooters and their thoughts.
Unfortunately for me, it's next to impossible to find even black powder supplies without going to a licensed dealer. I can't even order powder or caps online, much less a black powder revolver. The round balls are the only thing I can get online nowadays.
@Number 1 Western Fan It's the strict gun laws that went into effect following Sandy Hook. My Governor of the time made it illegal to buy so much as a black powder revolver online, or buy them out of state and bring them across state lines. Thanks a lot for ruining it for me, kid whose name I don't remember. Sandy Hook ruined everything.
A Bobbie pin works pretty good for a capper.
Id love to hear anyone out there on shooting bp shotguns like to hear anybodys experience with them
10:51 I don’t trust anyone or anything that doesn’t know how to properly grip my nips 😂
Couldn't find actual perc. caps so i had to get one of those kits to make them out of soda cans. Time consuming and wont work well with cappers, but definitely better than nothing
Why don't they make pellets for 36cal?
You mentioned softer screws, can you replace them with better screws? And if so, where to get?? Thank you and am loving your vids due to getting back into C n P.
I still have a couple cans of DuPont FFF black powder. I have a can of superfine black rifle powder. A purple can and a blue can I don’t use them i have then as collectables
super helpful thank you - love your channel
What would you recommend 2 or 3 for. If I could get away with using 1 in all rifles and all pistols. Or is that not recommend?
Outstanding video ! Just about everything I needed to know about my black powder gun. By the way, l got a question for you regarding the 1858 pietta New Army Target .44 cal. and the "Taylor's n Company conversion cylinder". Will the Winchester .45 long colt 255 gr round nose flat tip ammo work with that conversion cylinder ??? Thank you.
Is it possible to use airgun slugs? They’re a lot more accessible to me and they seem to be the same as the conical bullets marketed for bp guns. I was also wondering if using a „lube groove“ is sufficient to lubricate the round instead of using a wad or putting lube on the bullet after loading.
Whats kick the recoil.of 44 compared to 36 cal BP revolvers
Lube? I thought they use like patches? Is this how they used it back then?
Thanks for the info.
I'd love to get into cap and ball shooting but I can't find caps anywhere. I'm hesitant to drop the money on a revolver if I'm going to have trouble finding caps
Guy, if you are shooting your cap and ball revolvers, just where are you getting your caps? I haven't been able to buy them in over 2 years locally or online. Do you have a secret source? Maybe I should try making my own!
I challenge you to tell us where we can buy #10 Remington percussion caps.
Every place I have checked they are out of stock. The only ones I have seen are made for BP rifles.
I have 2 questions
- is it safe to load 20 gr of 777 into brass frame 1851 navy pietta?
- where the hell I can find #10 percussion caps????
Hi, I load 20 grains in my Remington 1858 with a brass frame and 12" barrel.
It is a .44 cal though. You might want to go with 15 grains in a .36 cal.
My brass frame is also a Pietta and so far no issues with 20 grains and
a standard round ball. But, brass is soft so don't try to push things to the max.
The owner's manual has a chart that tells suggested loads in
both black powder and pyrodex. They are light loads but very safe.
As for caps, you just have to look around at local gun stores as well
as online stores like Cabelas and Midway USA.
I was told by one of my dealers, the only one that sells real blackpowder, that Goex had either gone out of business or the company that owned Goex had discontinued it. I don’t. Recall which. Is this incorrect?
They had announced that they were shutting down, but I think they were bought by a new owner who kept it going.
@@GunsOfTheWest Fantastic news! Thank you.
Rhey went out business last year.. but a company bought them like 4 or 5 months ago and they are going to resume production
I made a nipple wrench with a 1/4 in nut driver. Lol
What's the difference between a black powder 44 revolver and a modern revolver? Other than the obvious.
I can’t find #10 caps anywhere
Thank you for this video. I am new to blackpowder and I am learning quite a bit from your channel. I do have one question and I'm sorry if it seems silly. Can I use paper cartridges in a Pietta 1851 44 cal. Sheriff's model (4.75 barrel)? This shorter barrel pistol is easier for me to handle but I've only seen people using cartridges on a full size 7.5 barrel. Any advice would be much appreciated and thank you for all your informative videos. 🙏
Hi, Linda! The paper cartridges will work as well in that gun as in the ones with longer barrels. Here’s the link to my website where paper cartridge kits are available: gunsoftheweststore.com
Thanks for watching!
Very nice work.
I am near Ogden, where should I go for such supplies?
Smith & Edward’s may still carry some of it and, of course, my website has some as well.
gunsoftheweststore.com
Is it possible to use airgun ammo instead of the stuff marketed towards bp guns? For me, airgun ammo is much easier to get and a lot of it seems to be identical to the bp conical bullets.
No
With percussion caps being so hard to find, some people are making caps.
I have not seen anyone using FFFF in the caps.
Could this work by putting a measured amount powder in the cap and adding a couple drops of alcohol ?
Is a black hat required? 🙂 I bought your paper cartridge maker for .36. I made a bunch and can't wait to get out in the field to try them out!
The hat’s not required, but it’s sure to help you shoot better. LOL
I've always been partial to white hats. Grew up on lone ranger
Great video
Good video! Straightforward, concise, informative.
Thank you sir.
Can you make a "buckshot" cartridge for a .44 black powder revolver and if so will it damage the revolver? So after using all my .44 balls to make a cartridge I ran out so I got to thinking can I make a buckshot cartridge from using little metal bbs .177s from my airsoft rifles?
I wouldn’t use regular BB’s, but I’ve seen people use lead birdshot successfully. Thanks for watching!
Can you use FFg Goex on a 1860 peitta 44. revolver ?
Yes. It just won’t be quite as powerful as FFFg.
great vidio sir was very good thank you
Is Goex back in business?
Technically, yes. Bought out by another company.
@@andrewgates8158 Thank you. I'm glad that another company was able to step up to the plate and keep our only domestic black powder brand going. That really makes my day!
@@andrewgates8158 Cool, good to know. I’m almost out of black powder and I shoot flintlocks a good bit.
i used magnum #11 with ffg in a pistol .44....blanks load...seemed really weak....maybe over primed?
20 grains....... I put it in a cardboard box and pull the sound was not loud....
How safe are they?
Sure glad BP primers will alway be available. 4 25 2024.
Try Swiss ,it is unreal it is the best I beleave. Like your video I will be back 🇺🇸👍
I rather have the smell of Goex on me, than that pyrodex funk.
Stuff smells like a college dorm room...or dirty socks lol 🤣
Have you ever tried Remington #11s?
I have, but they don’t stay on revolver nipples as well.
This powder is more fffinely grated than a regular fine powder)
Great info!
where are you getting caps? i never see them for sale and havent for years
Walmart has them year round in Kentucky and Indiana
Nice. Thanks.
Hey BP shooters, 1st timer here getting into it. I have a question, if any of y'all can answer?
So on my Pietta 1851(snub), I was putting CCI 11 caps on the nipples to see how they would fit. So I put one on and lowered the hammer onto the nipple with cap on it, now when this happens I can't cock back the hammer again. Unless I try to do it once or twice and I hear a click and now I can pull the hammer back again.
Does this happen because the hammer can't properly finish seating when there's a cap installed there, so it stays locked until it properly sits and I hear the click and is this why it's better to leave it on an empty cylinder for reliability also? The hammer will strike the cap fine, it just can't rest on it without getting locked up when you pull back.
It took me a minute to figure out but I think i recreated the problem on my Remington new model army (also a Pietta) what i believe is happening is as the hammer passes the halfcock notch the hand moves to it's next notch ready to index the cylinder also at this point the cylinder stop locks in place so if the hammer doesn't come all the way down the cylinder stop stays put so when you try and pull the hammer back again it's trying to turn the locked cylinder (i hope that makes sense) as for what would cause that I'm not really sure maybe the caps don't fit right and are preventing the hammer from going far enough or possibly your action parts are installed incorrectly and that's causing weird problems other than that I'd probably try to explain the problem to a gunsmith. Really hope you get it fixed man happy shooting
@@Grain_side_carving Thanks for your time and advice !
I do believe you're right, the 11 caps make the hammer not properly seat on the snub nose. I'll have to try #10
@@JM-zz3vs i hope that works it's always nice to have a simple fix