Black Powder vs. Pyrodex

In this video, Dustin Winegar compares real black powder to the popular substitute known as Pyrodex. Be sure to subscribe to my channel for more videos! Thank you for watching!
CORRECTION: I misspoke at the beginning of the video and said Pyrodex has been used since the 1940's. It actually was not until the 1970's. Apologies!
Click here to see part 2 with chronograph testing: • Black Powder vs. Pyrod...
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[@GunsOfTheWest]

My channel now has merch! Click on this link to see the available products. Thanks for supporting the channel! teespring.com/stores/guns-of-the-west

[@erinbiggers7709]

Can I use CHEAP SHOT 50 Cal sabots in my 44 1858 Remington replica ?.. it's 45 Cal without the sleeves

[@mkys9899]

Not only do they have a different flash point, BP being much lower than pyrex. the biggest factor for me is that pyrodex has a bad shelf life track record, I have BP that is 30 plus years old that was stored in a powder flask sitting on a shelf in my garage and is absolutely as potent as the day I bought it - burnt in a flash! and in a sealed factory plastic container sitting on the same shelf in my garage for 15 years (+/-) the pyrodex was extremely hard to light with a lighter and burnt, but it was so slow that it stopped burning before it was all gone and left a ring of unburned powder. I have left a revolver loaded in my toolbox for several years with BP and it still fires but I left a rifle loaded with pyrodex for a year and couldn't get it to fire even by pulling the nipple and putting a little 4f BP under the cap to prime it. I ended up pulling the projectile and scraping the block of crud from the breach...... I really don't like pyrodex ;)

[@erinbiggers7709]

@@mkys9899 in artillery we used powder from the 60s and it still sends the pill

[@saolucarrasco3418]

Yo pensé que iba a explotar si se carga con piroxilado

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

Is black powder some of the merch in your shop? If not, why not?

[@malcytull]

Back in the 90's when I used to shoot black powder pistols, I used to have a 45 cal Ruger Old Army, the laws then in the UK were strange, if you wanted to use Black Powder, you needed an explosives licence & was limited to how much you could hold, & how you stored it, but you could buy Pyrodex as & when with no licence because it wasn't classed as an explosive but as a propellant, they both did the same thing. Those prats that made that ruling got well paid for their efforts & now look at our country's gun culture, only criminals have handguns. Great video Dustin, I really enjoyed it, thank you for posting.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

I appreciate you sharing your perspective on the difference between our two countries’ laws. Thanks for watching!

[@varanid9]

That's because concussion can set off black powder easier than Pyrodex. It also burns faster. Also, keep black powder in its original metal container as it draws static electricity away from the powder during storage.

[@meteor1945]

@Sniperbait66 RVN keep spreading bs and lies jeez you are an idiot

[@tomservo5347]

the guy 10 years ago I told my wife just wait and see-these 'mass shootings' (false flags) will continue to happen in the hope people will blame guns and get suckered into anti-gun legislation. The left knows taking guns away will only work on people that obey laws to begin with. I love how schills immediately resort to name calling instead of debating. So what if he's wrong? He's exercising his right to his opinion. But what if he's right-that opens up a big can of worms most people want to deny. Anyone notice it always happens at areas that are 'gun free' zones? Whether or not the shooting is real or not the government wants to give the impression they'll give a false sense of 'security' while destroying rights in exchange. The 2nd clearly states 'shall not' which is legal jargon for 'don't touch' yet they do it anyway. I wish the Midwest and Texas would secede and let the coasts go to hell on their own.

[@tomservo5347]

About 10 years ago the Fed tried labeling blackpowder as an explosive requiring dealers to obtain a license to sell. All the hunters and shooters in the country mass called their congress reps and it died before getting anywhere. Public pressure works-we just need to believe it and use it more often. The Brady Bill back in '92 caused the shitstorm in '94 when the Dems got beaten badly in the elections and lost the House for the first time in nearly 40 years-let them be stupid again...okay, stupider and downright legally insane.

[@georgepickett6853]

I remember my dad cleaning his old 45 cal. BP. He used dish soap and boiling water. When he was done, the barrel was so hot it evaporated all the dampness in just a minute or so. After a light oiling he was done. That man was a real Hunter with that old rifle. Kept us fed for my entire childhood. Now I use a 50

[@themadscientest]

Dish soap and boiling water will clean just about everything! I'll have to remember this when I use my BP mini salute cannon, the instructions say to use "soapy ammonia" whatever that is.

[@lCountMike]

@@themadscientest Dish soap is detergent based so it's not exactly soap.

[@blairwilliamson5554]

Hot water and dish soap does the trick. I've always used it to clean my black powder guns. It's effective and cheaper and safer than solvents.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

In the field I use spit.... it is designed to break down most everything, and it does a pretty decent job of it.

[@martymcgill1312]

@@Rick_Sanchez_C137_ Rattlesnake venom is the Cowboy Way..

[@southerncountryboy8]

In my limited experience, Pyrodex cakes up and can take some elbow grease to remove, but real black powder just melts away with water and balistol. Plus real black powder makes more smoke and fire haha can't beat that!

[@DMEII]

pluz real BP has a nicer deeper sounding boom too.

[@robertlombardo8437]

Ba-boom! Only kind of smoking habit that I have, by God. Lol!

[@karlt8233]

I prefer real black powder but from the early 80's till around 2000 all I shot was Pyrodex RS or P because it's all I could find locally. Ordering real BP was always a financial decision due to the shipping and hazmat fees. At far as cleanup.. I have never found one harder to clean than the other when used in guns using patched round ball, lubed wads or conicals with lube rings. But in modern in lines using plastic sabots that are not lubed Pyrodex leaves a hard dry crusty fouling that requires more effort to clean than real blackpowder does. With the bore being crusty dry in an inline Pyrodex will absorb moisture much faster than Black and rust will form faster.

[@johns3544]

Black poweder is realy explosive pera just burns. Black powder is defenly a good one.

[@timesthree5757]

Pyrodex use olive oil or vegetable oil to clean. Bio oil the pyrodex just melts and I have no rust. Also after the 3 swabs all you are getting is graphite.

[@ksingleton101]

I belong to the NMLRA (new member) and when I first started shooting Black powder rifles I was told to use Pyrodex (100g) by Bass Pro. I was then told by a couple of guys at my NMLRA Range I was using was too much. The reason I was given was because the flash I was seeing after firing was powder that was still burning after the Ball left the barrel. I was told Pyrodex doesn't burn fast enough and was therefore wasting a lot of money. I was advised to change to Black Powder (GOEX) and only use 60-70g. I was told because it burns faster I would get more velocity from my rifle. I was amazed at how much more distance I achieved now shooting 200 yds and with a sighter shooting 500 yds. Friendship, Indiana has an awesome Black Powder ONLY range for members to enjoy.

[@MrGeoffois]

by volume I was thinking the opposite. My brother was shooting his 1841 Kentucky 58 cal with 60g of Pyrodex and he's getting 1000 fps but 60g of black powder is supposed to be in the low 900s like 920fps. Maybe because it's a long rifle and a heavier ball slow powder works better. I reload and that is how it generally works for rifles. Maybe you're right though for pistols.

[@timesthree5757]

My experience is different with my 1858 Remington. 35g of black powder 900 on average Pyrodex 35g 960.

[@kennethross9310]

I live 15 miles or so from friendship. Helluva flea market there during the shoots

[@keithteel258]

Took up the cap and ball hobby back in the 80s. Shot both black powder and pyrodex. I have learned over the years that pyrodex has a shelf life and will barely push a ball out the barrel. Black powder of the same age is still rocking. Thanks for the video!

[@thomastevelde8547]

Really?

[@keithteel258]

@@thomastevelde8547 yes sir’

[@user-qv1qk7qi5t]

I have had mine for 19 years same Pyro in same can and it shots just as well no differents wonder if you got moisture any way yeah 19 years old and other day I made some loads and she kicked like a mule

[@drewgregg782]

Pyrodex and blackpowder are hydroscopic and corrosive to metals. The supposed easier cleaning is only a slight difference when used in rifles where larger volumes are used. One significant difference is ignition temperature. Blackpowder ignites at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit and Pyrodex at about 700 degrees Fahrenheit. This why it doesn't work as well in flintlocks

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@Chiefs500]

I appreciate a comment by someone who knows what he is talking about and not just parroting what he has heard/read somewhere.

[@thatsmrharley2u2]

Pyrodex and black powder AREN'T corrosive to metals. The RESIDUE that's left after the gun is fired is what is corrosive. I ALWAYS clean black powder weapons as soon as possible after shooting. I also load my guns and sometimes don't shoot them for weeks or even months. As long as they're kept dry, they won't get corroded from the powder sitting in the chambers. Once you slip a cap on them, they still go off, even after being loaded forever. I've read that there were weapons from the Civil War that were still loaded and went off when capped!

[@kainhall]

@@thatsmrharley2u2 yup, as long as it doesnt get wet but i think, after it dries, it would still go off.... but probably with slightly less power havent tested that one.... didnt want to soak my friends guns in water...... kinda bad manners lol

[@johndavied1824]

I believe the proper term is "hygroscopic". Thanks for the interesting video.

[@powellmountainmike8853]

I've been a black powder shooter for many years, and have used Pyrodex for a lot of shooting too. Pyrodex is fine for use with cap and ball shooting. It is OK to use as a PROPELLANT with flintlocks also, but the biggest difference I have found is as a PAN POWDER with flintlocks. Pyrodex does not ignite anywhere NEAR as easily as black powder from a flint and steel spark in a flintlock. There is where it really falls down. If you are using flintlock weapons, stick to black powder, especially for the pan.

[@user-qv1qk7qi5t]

I grind mine down all by hand and rock stones like the Indians did there corn I turn it to powder looks like flower when I'm all done and it never ever fails to ignite now cap and ball.or flint lock it great stuff so don't be afraid to grind it down real fine so it then ignites like no tommrow

[@spinynorman887]

I'll never forget a discussion I was having with a friend about black powder shooting. He had a slip of the tongue and referred to Bore Butter as "ball butter" which I still laugh about!

[@ArizonaGhostriders]

Very helpful, Dustin. I like how you reiterated the volume note.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thank you, good sir!

[@LanceisLawson]

Perhaps the myth that BP is more difficult to clean was created by Pyrodex.

[@TrikeRoadPoet]

Much appreciated, solid tests and easy to replicate. Thanks for bringing this to us!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching! If you’re interested, there’s a link in the description to part two, in which I compared them with a chronograph.

[@azshooter348]

Been shooting Pyrodex & BP pretty much interchangeably since the late 60's, and never paid any attention to one vs the other being any easier/more difficult to clean up after. I disassemble my Colt or Remington, then into the sink fulled with warm soapy water it goes. I use a nylon bore brush and also toothbrushes in cleaning. Never found it necessary to use any spiffy elixirs named after large grazing animals, although I have been known to use WD-40 to displace water, as it was formulated to do. I have today a particular 1861 Navy Dad bought, and it still looks and functions as new. It was my job to disassemble, clean and reassemble it after every trip to the range.

[@johnnypipe]

Dustin, another nice video. I was told that the Pyrodex was more corrosive than the black powder and harder to remove than black powder. Your video seems to prove this.

[@63DW89A]

+Dustin Winegar, your observations are absolutely correct about how easy BP fouling actually is to clean. In reloading 45 Colt with Pyrodex, Hodgdon 777 and real BP, the one thing that impressed me was how much easier the BP fouling cleaned off the brass than did Pyrodex and Hodgdon 777. Pyrodex actually discolored the brass so much that I now rarely load Pyrodex in cartridges. Hodgdon 777 will also discolor the brass, but not as much as Pyrodex. BP darkens the fired brass, but seems to clean off easily and not be a permanent discoloration as is Pyrodex and Hodgdon 777 fired brass.

[@billwessels207]

Cowboy action shooters that use 12 gauge all brass shells, drop them immediately into a jug of water and soap at the range and only use black powder. They use the same shells for many years.

[@rmtatoo]

Hello I have a 44 pietta and I load with pyrodex rs which is equivalent to ffg I load at 1.50 grams and sometimes at 2 grams can you tell me if I take. Risks .... thank you to you

[@user-jb8fx8sb4e]

Barkeeper's friend is a great compound to remove the discoloration from the brass. Wipe on, wipe off.

[@TonyFreeman-LocoTonyF]

I've ordered my first cap and ball, a Pietta 1851 Navy. How lucky for me to have asked myself this question. And, how lucky for me to have found your quite revealing video on the topic! 👍

[@63DW89A]

Warning about Pyrodex. Pyrodex fouling is extremely corrosive and will quickly pit carbon steel barrels if not cleaned immediately after the range session. Hodgdon 777 is much less corrosive than Pyrodex, but still corrosive and should also be cleaned immediately after the range session. Real Black Powder is minimally corrosive, as the fouling absorbs moisture from the air and the salts in BP fouling combined with moisture will slowly cause rust on carbon steel. Pyrodex, Hodgdon 777 and BP fouling will all easily clean with just plain water. The "Moose Milk" Ballistol/ Water mix is excellent as Ballistol is very alkaline and will neutralize the acids that make Pyrodex and Hodgdon 777 so corrosive to carbon steel.

[@mikemaki7192]

63DW89A your very right about that. I had a ruger old army in stainless and used pyrodex once. After I thought I had cleaned it thouroghly I missed some on the hammer and it pitted! Last time I used that.

[@nicholaspietrzak9992]

777 is my go to for a substitute but obviously love the real deal better.

[@Chiefs500]

I routinely shoot Pyrodex P in my cap and ball pistols. I do not always clean these pistols immediately and have had no problems with pitting.

[@adamm1284]

I have the same problem. I only tear mine down completely twice a year after around 400 shots. Most of the time I just wipe it down with baby wipes and just re-oil and grease the reel. I won't even scrub the barrel just push it a few times and it has no damage.

[@Chiefs500]

Something else must be at work there. I use same method to clean weapons whether shooting real black powder or one of the subs. Never have had a problem with corrosion in any of my dozen or so black powder guns. Certainly no rifling was "eaten".

[@wyattspahn2193]

Finally, a super helpful powder guide amongst all this other confusion.

[@user-jb8fx8sb4e]

Hey, Dustin. Thanks for all the great videos and information! You have provided a lot of us with a stable and reliable source on black powder sporting over the years. On a second note though, I thought I would put my 2 cents in on the subject of both pyrodex and black powder. I have had some varying results with, pyrodex. Seems to me, to be more of a climate related issue. It's a lot more hygroscopic than black powder in my experience. I have seen it rust in less than 30 minutes (and fairly badly) in real humid climates but take 4 days or more in really dry/arid climates. I have done burn tests on steel plates and have concluded the same results. In montana I can go 2 or so days without cleaning with no sign of rust.I have not and will not do that, but I could if I had to. Mine all get cleaned religiously after every session as should be done with black powder firearms. Also before I forget, to my knowledge black powder only produces sulphuric acid when burnt whereas pyrodex produces sulphuric acid and hydrochloric acid, these acids when combined create a chemical reaction with steel that first etches then pits metal when in contact with any humidity in the air or direct water. A acid neutralizing substance like baking soda will be your best friend and "baking soda baths" have been used for a long time to neutralize sulphuric acid. Just my experience, as always use at your own discretion. And again, thank you for all you do for the black powder community!

[@kencreten3101]

Great video. Very clear and thanks for your great sense of video editing and good sound.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks very much!

[@cjcornwall]

Thanks, Dustin. Great and very informative video.

[@jameskleist4019]

I've hunted with black powder and shoot on the range with black powder and a friend using piradex and I saw no deference. I think you drew the same conclusions as I did and my Dad did. Thanks for the video

[@bwhog]

The storage requirements of BP are now so onerous (because the people who make the rules are afraid of it) that very few stores will actually carry it anymore. A rep at the local Sportsman's Warehouse talked to me for a while about what they'd have to go through if they wanted to continue to sell it over the counter as they used to do. If you want actual BP, your best bet now is to order it online and deal with the handling fees. That means that you're best off ordering a two year supply or getting together with some friends to combine orders since to offset the cost of the fees, there's a minimum quantity before it becomes viable and while many of us are quite enthusiastic about our BP shooting, a pound of powder can last a good while. When you have to order five pounds at a time for it to be cost effective, well, better to buy as a group.

[@dalehammond1749]

This was a real eye opener, thanks!

[@michaelpriest6242]

This is a nice comparison well done. Thank you for the video.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@donbahn1319]

I use dawn dish soap and hot water, followed up with gun oil,

[@Powerback2thepeople]

Don Bahn , wow so do I ! I clean ‘em right in the kitchen sinks ! When the wife is not around! Lol ! Thought I was the only one! I’ll even run the water hot out of the Sink Fossett run the brass brush out the barrel under the water and back in till the water turn clean!

[@tomservo5347]

Powerback2thepeople When I got my very first front stuffer at 12 years old, the good ol' boy gun dealer told me and Dad to go and see some local 'hill boys' big into blackpowder. They said don't bother with solvents-just get a bucket of hot, soapy water for cleaning, pillow ticking for patches, and Crisco for lube.

[@Nixonitus]

Do the same. Though, you have to make sure to properly dry it off, else it'll rust if you store for long.

[@tomservo5347]

I'd use our air compressor with an air nozzle that had about a 6" straight end. Perfect for blowing out any residue in the barrel, lock and overall. Then I'd go liberal with the gun oil. When I'd next get it out I'd run a swab down the barrel to remove any excess oil and pop a cap or two.

[@DMEII]

I clean mine in the kitchen siink too. I quit using deterent and just scalding water. It cleans the fouling and residue right off. But you sure have to dry it all with rags, etc and then oil them up. For muskets I would bring water to bowl and with a funnel I would pour boiling water down the barrel until the black water pouring out the nipple hole was clear. Then dry and oil. @@Powerback2thepeople

[@jeffreygraf3358]

Thanks for dispelling one of the many myths about Pyrodex. When I started shooting muzzleloaders, I bought into the Pyrodex propaganda (cleaner shooting, cleans easier, etc.) I found during my muzzleloading range sessions that the bores fouled quicker and had a crustier fouling than BP, and it was harder to clean afterwards. Once I was able to find a reliable BP dealer in my area, and shot BP exclusively, I haven't shot Pryodex since. BP fouling is softer and the bore is easier to clean. I find consistent accuracy is easier to obtain with BP. I'm not even going to mention the toxic gasses emitted from Pyrodex. Anyone want a couple of pounds of old Pyrodex?

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@bevskennel]

the main reason I went to Pyrodex you can't always get black powder due to the strict rules & regulations!!

[@dehoedisc7247]

Thanks for a really informative vid about a subject that I needed to know more about.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@jMOPS1993]

Hell yeah. Badass video Dustin, I subscribed 👍🏻

[@Bogie3855]

The inside of those patches is still clean so I turn them over and use both sides.

[@douglasmaccullagh1267]

In my limited experience, Pyrodex is frighteningly corrosive. A delay in cleaning destroyed my first muzzle loading pistol. Pyrodex may be easier to buy than Goex, but I have no plans to burn that last 3/4 pound of Pryodex P I still have.

[@0neDoomedSpaceMarine]

Just be mindful to clean when you're done. Or turn it into fireworks.

[@michaelpage4199]

Great video. I appreciated you doing this.

[@jwrhynejr.6689]

Great training info! Thank you!

[@neckstumping]

Great stuff. Thanks mate

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@montanamountainmen6104]

I've been shooting Black Powder firearms since the 90's , most were shot with Pyrodex since most stores will not carry real black powder since its a explosive.

[@darrellh1840]

Thanks Dustin...learning more every day thanks to you!!!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@troystutsman1400]

Thanks for sharing this information with us...! Have a great day and Be Blessed...!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@Al-Fiallos]

Thanks for posting this. I will be using black powder instead of Pyrodex. Very informative and excellent presentation and editing.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@joshuariddensdale2126]

I found that Pyrodex burns very dirty. I could only manage about 12 shots out of my revolvers. Since switching over to Triple 7, I can easily get over 60 shots out of them.

[@grizzlyblackpowder1960]

That sounds like something else is at play as triple seven is just hogdons synthetic powder. It is advertised as burning clean, but if you can only manage 12 shots on pyrodex there is definitely something wrong.

[@bidkid2020]

Really enjoyed the video thank you

[@ColoradoShooterInstruction]

Excellent video and awesome shirt! Thank you for sharing!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Colorado Shooter Instruction Thanks for watching!

[@jimbelle3087]

I've got an 1860 army. Hot water, dawn dish soap. Extremely easy to clean. Bore brush , toothbrush, pipe clearer.

[@laurencethornblade1195]

The man who invented pyrodex unintentionally blew himself up

[@DoomMajster]

I have been firing black powder only so far, I didn't even know it can be substituted with something like Pyrodex. Actually this is the first time I have ever heard that name ;) Cool video btw, very thorough. Thumbs up from me!

[@NealPilger]

Great instructional. Thanks.

[@barnabywild2215]

You can determine the weight of the approved by volume load for respective powders (as you demonstrated in this video) and then use that info to load phial tubes using a Lee perfect powder measure. It's good practice to reload BP revolvers with measured phials rather than a powder flask - just to avoid that one time in a hundred when the chamber has a smouldering ember just waiting to turn your flask into a grenade.

[@YankeesOutdoorAdventures]

Excellent video brother good comparison I've never used Pyrex but we just continue on my grandfather's tradition of making our own powder I've been doing it since I was a boy, kind of an extra buzz shooting your own powder out of your own gun😁

[@YankeesOutdoorAdventures]

Also brother I forgot to say I subbed and gave you a thumbs up if you get a chance check mine out😁

[@GunsOfTheWest]

That's awesome that you make your own. I haven't done that yet, but I plan to in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Yankees Outdoor Adventures, will do!

[@ps2hacker]

I make my own, too. It's an art, and takes lots of practice.

[@dehoedisc7247]

Pyrex ! hahahahahaha shooting tempered glass, are we? Just kidding, man. Making your own powder is what my grampa would have done out on the prairie back 100 years ago.

[@electron4784]

That was a Big help. Thanks

[@ragga_muffin_84]

Great video, thanks man 👍🏻

[@manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069]

I use pyrodex in my shotgun. Load up cartridges with it 75 grains by volume same volume of shot. Great little load on rabbit's and pigeons. Best wishes from the uk

[@Squib1911]

Appreciate the correction in the description. Also, first time I have seen anyone use a jag. I have always used a patch holder. I might invest in a jag and try it out for myself

[@GunsOfTheWest]

To me, it seems like the jag pushes the patch into the rifling a bit better. Cabela’s sells a nice set for about $18 and it includes most calibers. Thanks for watching!

[@WAQWBrentwood]

Dustin Winegar Yes, It definitely engages the rifling better!👍

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Glad you like it!

[@bevskennel]

I may try one of those jag!

[@jeffreydavidconner]

You answered my question in the first 3 min. And explains why the barrel of my Hawken looked like it was fired by Wile E Coyote chasing the Road Runner. I measured it out by weight into paper tubes for reloading. It did hold up for the first two shots. As they say it worked until it did not.. Nice vid...

[@lukewarmwater6412]

hey, you've accually made a great vid!! I am impressed that there is at least one person doing that here on you tube!!..... interesting to note that an old Remington can be loaded to the deliver a similar energy transfer as a .357 magnum with a 40 grain ( volume not weight) pyrodex load.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@nadien1958]

the Lee Powder Measure is a good addition to your vid, but I'v never loaded my 1851 using any measure. My flask has 2 nipples, I believe the short one is 22 grains and the long one 30 grains. I have never checked them on a scale. I load 2 short nipple fulls for the 147 gr ball, and one long nipple full for the .452 cal 200gr SWC. I have the 1851 Navy w/brass frame for now on 20+ years. only failed me once, when it swallowed an expended cap. Replaced the small part that it broke, and it still works great. I think "volume" measuring works best with black powder or substitute.

[@bencruz563]

Dont tell me what to do. I try everything at home. You need more cowbell.

[@alanpeterson6224]

Cowbell? I drank a bottle of that once. Shot myself in the foot.

[@phillipdodds7860]

Like your videos. I'm learning a lot.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@kurtjensen7264]

Thank you so much, for doing this. I am seriously considering buying a black powder revolver. And I’m learning a lot from you. Thank you. 🙏

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome!

[@cal30m1]

A chronograph would have been really helpful

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Agreed. I wanted to do that, but didn't have access to one. Definitely in a future video though. Thanks for watching!

[@RandyHTFFforever]

@Brian Perkins so why are you here ! I am here because there is nothing at all related to this on tv . Already knew the outcome to this subject , shooting black powder when this guy was shiting green . And now that I am done with this vid , and making the mistake of reading from trolls , it's raining out so I am going to watch another and hopefully you did not comment on any of those .

[@savage22bolt32]

You increased my knowledge today. Thank you very much for that. Just curious how you got that nice white towel past the wife ;>)

[@johnhudak3829]

Excellent video!!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@pdoutdoors7272]

Excellent video.

[@patriciastauffer3278]

I changed over to black powder years ago. Two things made my mind up for me. I got better accuracy with black powder than with pyrodex and I started shooting flintlocks. I never was able to get a flint lock to go off with pyrodex unles I loaded a black powder "starter" load and used a black powder pan charge.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@Hi-lb8cq]

love from Colorado Springs

[@redtomcat1725]

Good information, thank you.

[@davidunderwood3605]

Yep a chrony really would have been cool data

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Absolutely! I don’t have one, but I’m getting one fairly soon. As soon as I do, I’ll do a follow-up to this video. Thanks for watching!

[@mkshffr4936]

I look forward to the chrony results. When you do it try to get some 777 too as a lot of folks say it is more powerful than either of the others.

[@Strengthandconditioning60]

When you light the 2 powders in the open air you can really tell the difference between a explosive(black powder) and a propellant(pyrodex).

[@35southkiwi16]

Black powder while seemingly a simple chemical composition, can vary greatly, for reasons my beyond my simple understanding of chemistry. Some seems to burn "wet" some "dry" and really crusty. Looks like the goex you tried went well for you. Pyrodex is a little bit rare and expensive here and I can only recall burning one can as an experiment years ago. I do remember that I couldnt see any advantage, was really dry and hard to clean so I concur with your finding as most BP I have played with was relatively easy to clean up after. (boiling water and dish wash soap) Also here in NZ we have locally made BP so for that reason I tend to run with that. Good video, thanks for posting

[@blackpowderfirearmenthusia3194]

I mostly use Goex black powder. Last year I started loading my 45 Colt cartridges with bh209 and I found that I can shoot a lot more with very little fauling. But for my cap n ball revolvers I use Goex. Thanks for sharing, very informative video.

[@lochinvar00465]

Thanks for the comparison. I've used BP instead of Pyrodex because BP is cheaper(because I make my own). The only comparison you didn't do is to use it as a parachute ejection propellant(rocketry) which I have. My one try of Pyrodex this way resulted in a damaged rocket that had to have the body repaired when Pyrodex blew a hole thru the airframe. Although Pyrodex burns slower in the open, when under pressure it may actually burn faster and produce a pressure spike. As for ease of cleaning I have found similar results to yours. One propellant that is really easy to clean is "crimson powder" used for parachute ejection charges. It cleans up with a damp rag. But, it's not recommended for firearms.

[@19JEFFRO67]

I Roll my own as well for Pyro Lift powder & for muzzleloaders bp is far superior for my uses but my flash powder is the 💩 for Report 😁

[@usualsuspect5173]

I weigh all of my black powder and pyrodex loads...but first I find the volume load that gives me the accuracy I want..then I average about 20 volume measures by weight and I get fantastic accuracy

[@deplorable7476]

Very informative thanks

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@cr-us9ch]

Great video

[@radomguy9678]

It’s unfortunate that the powder measure that measures by volume uses grains as the unit of measurement. As you already know I am sure, grains is in fact only a measurement of weight. But I do get it now. It was very confusing because as a seasoned reloader (of smokeless powder) volume and mass are both very important, but they are actually entirely different. Richard Lee discusses this at length (ad nauseum really) in the Modern Reloading book. He states that he wishes all reloading was measured by volume instead of mass and explains why. Thanks for the video to help me understand. I can easily buy Pyrodex locally with no hazmat fee, which is attractive, and now I won’t worry about it.

[@shadowcastre]

Random guy... You are correct... grains is only a measuement of weight and there is no such thing as grains by volume. The problem is that there is no standardization of volume type measures and for what granulation of powder. The term people are looking for is "Volume Equivalent "!

[@kimness7796]

I think the main advantage of Pyrodex is it isn't an "explosive" under fed law. I hope that brush has a brass tip, not a steel one!

[@journeyquest1]

But you have to pay hazmat shipping so it is an explosive. Even says so on the bottle.

[@MrSpinteractive]

Fascinating thank you. The pyrodex seems like a much safer alternative. Also, I appreciated seeing your bore cleaning technique.

[@mikewysko2268]

Useful info for black powder newbies. I thank you Sir.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@stevendeatley4878]

I like Blackpowder ,it shoots much tighter groups in my Rifle than Pyrodex,but it can be hard to find ,in some places.

[@victorboucher675]

BP is classified as an explosive - gun store dude said that they were instructed to treat the customer as a potential terrorist last time I was shopping - Willits CA, 2005. The other types are "propellant"... so maybe different in other areas and you can still buy the "real stuff" outside the peoples republic.

[@j.rob.5943]

Victor Boucher your gunstore dude is an idiot

[@Mike-im5bo]

FYI: I don't know about the other 49 states, but in Louisiana the State Police considers more than five pounds of black powder, in bulk, as an explosive, and needs to be stored in a magazine. A person can possess more than five pounds as long as it is divided into five pound lots and stored in separate secured buildings.

[@fordguy61mi]

California is about the least firearm friendly state in the country. I couldn't live there. But hats off to you.

[@Khorne_of_the_Hill]

@@fordguy61mi you're forgetting the 999 other reasons not to live there lmao

[@carlmoeller56]

Excellent video. You do a very nice job in all of your vids. I am getting into black powder and used answered all of my questions and concerns here. May I suggest that when at the range try not to point your muzzle up but rather down when pulling back the hammer, especially with the finger on the trigger. By raising your firearm from the down position it is much safer and your shooting may be more accurate. Best and keep the good vids coming.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Normally, with modern firearms, you would be right about not pointing the gun up when cocking the hammer. However, pointing a black powder revolver down when cocking the hammer is a sure way to drop a spent cap into the action and put an end to your shooting. At some ranges, pointing up to cock the hammer can present a safety concern and you just have to keep it pointed forward while cocking the hammer carefully. I shot this in the middle of nowhere though where I can do it the historical way to avoid cap jams.

[@bobsradio6025]

I bought my Italian clone of a SAA so long ago I think it was less than $100. I only could find one type of factory ammo and thought it was quite mild. The handloading manuals also listed very light loads, so I assume the loads were for old original Colts with cast iron frames. One day I decided to make some black powder loads, and had quite a surprise. The only data I could find was "the bullet and the powder like to be chummy with each other" so I put in all the powder it could take and still leave room for the bullet. When I fired it I realized that thing was a real gun. The pansy factory loads made it seem to be more like a .22. I had never heard of Pyrodex back in those days, and I don't think I will try it now.

[@txgunguy2766]

I've been shooting all my life and it's only in the last couple of years here, on youtube, that I have even heard of balistol. This is the first time I've actually seen it because I've never seen it in stores. So far though, Hoppes9 from walmart is working fine.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Hoppes 9 is a more aggressive cleaner and, in my opinion, better than Ballistol for modern guns. For black powder guns though, water and Ballistol are fantastic. Thanks for watching!

[@Master...deBater]

scott: Yeah...Hoppes9 is great for smokeless residue...but if you're using it to clean black powder...you might want to make sure you neutralize the salts with something water based first. I could be wrong...but from what I've heard and read...Hoppes9 doesn't do a very good job of neutralizing BP residue. Dustin's right...Hoppes9 for smokeless powder...and Balistol/water for BP.

[@nantahalarat]

I use Ballistol exclusively. Not only is it good as a cleaner, but is also a good lube, for firearms and your leather!

[@staceyporter6095]

Windex works great too. Melts away the residue in seconds. A couple of patches sprayed with windex followed by dry patches till clean. I always flip my patch and run it on the other side also until they start to come through clean. Use less patches that way.

[@denisdegamon8224]

Try machinists, water soluable oil and water for moose milk with 10 to 1 mix....1 part water soluable oil to 10 parts water, with a drop or two of Dawn. This works great for cleaning and lightly oils the bore during shooting sessions.

[@samiam619]

“Don’t try this at home”. Why do you get to have all the fun? 😛

[@GunsOfTheWest]

LOL!! Well... just do it at your own risk then. Thanks for watching!

[@bobhall4588]

@@GunsOfTheWest I still have eyebrows!

[@wobbley328]

Bob Hall l

[@gary07281963]

Excellent video

[@conradw9229]

Thanks for the video. An excellent video and good information that is not commonly passed. As far as cleaning either, use hot water, hot water, and hot water. I would like to add that either is okay for precussion cap, but ONLY backpowder can be used in a flintlocks.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

You’re absolutely right about flintlocks. Thanks for watching!

[@freezerfreezer9097]

You are right... it is a myth... black powder is easier clean. Also reviews years ago pyrodex use to claim it wasn't as corrosive as BP...in fact I remember one guy saying you could let it set for a couple weeks before cleaning.. this is also a myth... and a good way to pit up you gun...I think it's a lot more corrosive than BP....also it's just as smokey, if not more smokey... as your video shows...lastly the smell is not the same .. BP has that sulphur smell...some people say it stinks like rotten eggs. Not me. I prefer it over the smell of the Pyrodex. There's a lot of substitutes out on the market. Pyrodex being the worst. And none of them as good as good old black powder.

[@luckywyatt]

I like the Goex original black power. I couldn’t believe how crusty the pyrodex was and. Down side is blackpowder is controlled by BATFE and they make it really difficult for retail store to carry it.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@leroyanderson1062]

You can't use black powder in a cannon

[@tedpappas8939]

Nice video very informative

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@robbyrobrob1]

Black powder has the smell of history.

[@308dad8]

And burned sulfur

[@Ranstone]

Windex: Cleans all powder buildup, then boils away in moments without a trace.

[@jaymcdude1291]

That some nice scenery out there

[@waynejones3428]

Good job !👍💨

[@rogueart7706]

The burning question is...Does pyrodex throw flames?..I want flames and smoke when I shoot my .50 flintlock, that way the critter dies of heart attack if I miss.

[@BogeyTheBear]

"I like my venison flame-seared before it hits the ground!"

[@TexasHellcat1836]

It does flame up. Sparks fly out.

[@yourredcomrade717]

if you have a flintlock. dont buy pyrodex. its hard to ignite in cap guns, your flintlock simply wont go bang.

[@rogueart7706]

@@yourredcomrade717 I dont know who told you that bs but a flintlock is not a cap gun. Also, people use pyrodex everyday in flintlocks.

[@manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069]

I live in the uk and shoot clays every sunday. When ive finished my round i blow off a load of shells loaded 65 grains by volume to equal volume of shot in an old double barrel hammergun . Great fun smoke flames and destroyed targets pyrodex is great fun can load some very excessive loads and still not blow up in your face. Unlike nitro

[@georgecapra]

When ? Before or after the Church Service.

[@mustangfan3295]

Great info!

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@RantzBizGroup]

Excellent!!!

[@michaelrobinett6750]

I haven't shot my black powder guns in a while. Since I haven't been able to find black powder lately. I have shot Pyrodex and feel like there is a delay. Do you feel you found a delay in pyrodex vs Black powder?

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Sometimes there is. It doesn’t ignite as easily as black powder. Thanks for watching!

[@grassroot011]

Make your own,

[@stefanodogg280]

Blackpowder can be ordered online in quantities up to 50 lbs

[@nunyabidniz2868]

Yep. But storing more than #4 requires a Federal explosives license, iirc. So get 10 friends to go in on the order with you so you can break it down into acceptably smaller lots once it arrives...

[@denisdegamon8224]

@@nunyabidniz2868 actually it's 50 lbs. Anyone over 21 can order a case lot, and have it delivered to your door...does require an adult signiture upon receiving. Besides who is going to check out your inventory???? Big brother? The reason stores don't like stocking BP is that they are limited on quantity on hand and are required to have a special powder locker.

[@KowboyUSA]

Great advice.

[@GunsOfTheWest]

Thanks for watching!

[@DMEII]

David Edelen I clean mine in the kitchen sink. I quit using detergent and got to using just scalding water. It cleans the fouling and residue right off. But you sure have to dry it all with rags, etc and then oil them up. For muskets I would bring water to bowl and with a funnel I would go ou tin the yarx and pour boiling water down the barrel until the black water pouring out the nipple hole was clear. Then dry and oil it up. I had a lot of BP guns in the 2980s. I wish i still had them.

[@Peccaviultum]

Question: compare how badly they were fouled and how many cylinders one might fire with each BEFORE each would require cleaning...... the issue I have noticed is black powder fouls MORE than substitutes, so the pistol has to be cleaned more often. Also, did you think that black powder produces more smoke ?