R. Dupraz
posted this
15 January 2007
Hi Lefty:
I don't know if I can be of much help reference your question about substitute powders as I use only black in my BPC guns. All the BPCR shooters that I know also use black but that is not to say that all shooters do. I am sure that there are many who have good success with the substitutes and from what I know of them, there is no reason why they will not work for gong/buffalo matches and such. Last I knew though, Pyrodex is the only sub. allowed for BPCR silhouette by th NRA.
Although I have used Pyro. in muzzle loaders with good success, I don't have any experience with the others. From what I understand about them is that they are pretty much similar to black except for the fact that they all produce less fouling. I know that Pyro is measured the same and the same loading process is used for BPCR.
One good place for info regarding this is the Shiloh Sharps Forum. A lot of these guys that frequent this forum are hard headed black shooters but there are many who are not. Just do a search on the subject. I know this topic has come up fairly frequently there in the past over there.
One good reference is the Spg Lubricants BP Cartridge Reloading Manual. Another is the 25th edition of the Hodgdon loading manual. Also. several of the black powder books written by Sam Fadala. As well as the Lyman books.
I would also search these powder manufacturers out on the internet. Some of them may have the info that you are looking for or just contact them.
Sorry that I couldn't offer more regarding your question. I shoot mostly long range buff/gong matches and NRA midrange BPCR. To get thumped in the shoulder, see the smoke and then hear that 540 grainer smack the 1000 yd. buff is more than a hoot!
So, about the only thing that I can really offer is just get some loading data for your .45-70 using the powders that you have and try some loads. If you have any other questions ref. the BPCR all ya gotta do is ask.
Regards
R. Dupraz