Bunch of questions...

[corelokt308win]

1. Is there a cleaner black powder substitute than 777 that is consistent?

2. Any reason I shouldn't use "409 with citrus oil" cleanser as a spit patch?

3. What is the issue with 209 primers and 777 powder?

4. If a breech plug seizes with 777, whats the best way to loosen it?

[quickdtoo]

4. If a breech plug seizes with 777, whats the best way to loosen it?

 
To prevent it from seizing in the first place, use TC breech plug tape or teflon plumber's tape, you'll never have a problem with a hard to remove breech plug again. Shooting 120gr 3f T7 in my black diamond makes the plug almost impossible to remove after 50 shots or so. Thanks to Sabotloader, that doesn't happen any more.

To loosen a stuck breech plug, soak it with soap and water for a bit, it will loosen. Not necessary with the tape. :grin:

       
http://www.graybeardoutdoors.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?t=39309

[Flatland Hunter]

1. Is there a cleaner black powder substitute than 777 that is consistent?

No, I do not believe there is a powder that burns cleaner, with as much power, is as non-corrosive, and cleans up with water.

2. Any reason I shouldn't use "409 with citrus oil" cleanser as a spit patch?

I wouldn't. Oil residue left behind would be a concern for me. Besides a spit patch, dab the patch on your tongue, does fine and you shouldn't have to run a dry patch afterwards.

3. What is the issue with 209 primers and 777 powder?

Some believe that the hotter 209 primer will create a crud ring when used with T7... I believe that also, but I have had the same crud ring with Clearshot when I use a 209 with it. When I use a #11 cap not so much of a ring, if any at all.

4. If a breech plug seizes with 777, whats the best way to loosen it?

What qd2 said, I use the yellow gas line teflon tape, it is thicker than the pink plumbers, normally both are displayed together at Lowe's. I also smear a bit of Knight plug grease on the leading edge of the tape... not problems!

[Keith Lewis]

Relative to powder selection; watch and follow the Black Mag3 post which is active on this site. I am expecting some BM3 powder this coming week and according to reports it is not quite as powerful as 777 but less corrosive and has almost no fouling buildup. If this is true I will be using it if it shoots consistently and well in my Omega. 777 still makes a crud ring of sorts in my Omega even with the .25ACP conversion although with the conversion the ring is reduced about 80% from what I get with a 209 primer. I am satisfied with 100gr. pellets of 777 or slightly less loose 777(85 to 90gr.) so if BM3 is slightly less powerful I won't be disapointed as I should be able to shoot about 100gr. and get all the power I need. I shoot at Elk at less than 100 yards and have experienced one complete pass through shot with 85gr. of Clear Shot which is a low power powder pushing a 348gr. Powerbelt out of a 22inch barrel T/C Scout. Don't need more power than that.