Black Powder Substitute

[@nd]

To all the purists please don't flame me (pun intended)
Is there a 777/Pyrodex substitute that can be used instead of black powder in the pan of a flintlock musket.
I HAVE applied for a black powder licence but i'm still waiting and would like to shoot my musket in the mean time.
Andrew

[Hrun]

I am using fffg with success. There is a hilarious delay as the powder burns and like you will be applying for my BP licence

[Sim G]

If memory serves none of the substitutes are recommended for priming.

[Hrun]

Maybe not recommended.. but it works :-)

[dromia]

It may work but from your description it obviously doesn't as there should be no noticeable delay in firing a flintlock. In no way does it behave like a substitute for black powder in a flintlock.

[Hrun]

Dromia, I get what you are saying, it is not ideal, but the gun does go bang and I have yet to have anybody have a go who didn't enjoy themselves.

The OP asked if he could shoot a flintlock with substitute whilst waiting for a BP licence and my answer stands.. it works.

That said, I bought my flintlock from a friend on a whim, I have shot it with substitute and BP given by another member and as a result have ordered a box and will be applying for my licence.

I see no reason to leave it in the cabinet until matters are sorted.

[glevum]

Have you read the Pyrodex Loading notes on their website?

http://www.pyrodex.com/loading.html

It would be prudent to follow them.

[Hrun]

I use pyrodex in my BP revover, a .69 musket and now my .44 flintlock.

I doubt I come anywhere near a maximum load and they all go bang. As previously stated, I have witnessed the advantage of BP and plan to switch, but with the obvious at your own risk caveats, I see no reason why not.

It is a substitute after all, not a completely different powder.

[dromia]

not a completely different powder.

Actually it is.

[Hrun]

Dromia,

I really respect your knowledge and read your posts with interest.

But, the OP asked if he could use pyrodex whilst waiting for his BP licence. I am using it whilst sorting out my licence, so my original post stands.