Author Topic: FFF in a flintlock? (Read 763 times)

bobfrombutler · « **on:** October 13, 2004, 11:22:45 AM »

I shoot a Lyman Deerstalker flintlock. Sometime over the years 2 Lb. of FFF showed up in my cabinet. Can it be used in a flintlock rifle? I understand that I would have to start from scratch and build a load.
If it will work what would minimum and maximum loads be?

Thanks,
Bob Kennedy

roundball · « **Reply #1 on:** October 13, 2004, 11:49:54 AM »

FFFg is usually the most preferred granulation there is for small and medium caliber flintlocks...a little faster & cleaner burning than FFg...I use it in .45/.50/.54cal flintlocks (and percussions)...and I use FFg in the larger .58 & .62calibers.
Load data for FFg can be found almost every and the established loading standard for FFFg is to simply reduce the FFg load data by 10-15%. For example, I use 110grns FFg or 90grns FFFg for my deer hunting loads, which is actually 18%.
And if the FFFg you 'found' happens to be Goex, you must be living under a star...Enjoy!

IntrepidWizard · « **Reply #2 on:** October 13, 2004, 11:54:03 AM »

Also a small amount of FFF can be crushed to about FFFF for Frizzen powder.

Trapper-Jack · « **Reply #3 on:** October 13, 2004, 04:48:29 PM »

I'd let the rifle decide what it likes best. I've shot both ffg and fffg in my Lyman caplock. It likes the ffg better, but either one will work.

IntrepidWizard · « **Reply #4 on:** October 13, 2004, 05:02:48 PM »

When grinding BP use a Ceramic or glass door nob or a Crocket ball in a bowl.No metal ever.

crow_feather · « **Reply #5 on:** October 13, 2004, 05:55:30 PM »

IntrepidWizard,

I know it works, and I know that there is no problem, but it still does sorta scare me to crush plack powder with my hand or body over it. I think I would rather invest in some 4f. I guess they make 4f fer us cowards.

C F

Good time Charlie · « **Reply #6 on:** October 14, 2004, 12:59:22 AM »

I use three F Goex for the main charge and to prime my .50 cal. TC Hawken flinter.
Old Charlie

chickenlittle · « **Reply #7 on:** October 14, 2004, 06:25:14 AM »

The Lyman owner's manual can be found at this web address: www.lymanproducts.com/lymanproducts/LymanUsersGuide.pdf. Size is about 400kb. See Page 14 for 2F and 3F black powder loads.