Let's talk powder and lube wads

[mike8946]

It has been quite some time since I have messed with black powder.  Would you guys please remind me what the difference is in the types of black powder and what kind I want for my Sharps .40-90, i.e. ffg, fffg, etc.  Also, what about these lube wads.  I've heard things about lube cookies?  Lube ribbon extruders?  Help!

[Redhawk1]

I use ffg for  my 45-70 and it will work for your 40-90. The wad is not lubed it is dry, at least the ones I use. I reload by dropping the BP through a 30 inch drop tube then place a .030 or .060 wad on top of the powder. Compress the powder to proper depth put a grease cookie in and put another either .030 or .060 wad over the grease cookie and seat it agents the wad over the powder. I then place the paper patched bullet over the wad. Just remember no air gaps. It is all mathematical. First you need your over all measurement. Then measure your case and bullet and subtract over all measurement from that. That number is how much room you will need in the case after powder, wads and grease cookie are installed. So you have to measure you wads, grease cookie and compress your powder to the right depth to leave room for the bullet. Sound hard but it really is easy. A grease cookie can be made from a ribbon extruder which is .125 thick and I use the case mouth to punch t out. Hope this helped.

[mike8946]

Helps a lot.  Thank you.  Where is the best place to get all of the things you mentioned?

[Redhawk1]

Helps a lot.  Thank you.  Where is the best place to get all of the things you mentioned?

http://www.buffaloarms.com/

I deal with Cody a lot at Buffalo Arms. Very good people and also very good at helping also. You can get your bullets from Montana Bullet works. His price is extremely reasonable. Here is his e-mail address. He can e-mail you a price sheet and bullet list.  MTLeadhead@aol.com