The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - load data for a Chamelot Delvinge 1873 revolver

**Mike Irwin** · December 14, 2010, 09:08 AM

Trail Boss is NOT a direct replacement for black powder! Unlike the old true bulk smokeless powders, you cannot load Trail Boss by volume alone and ensure that you have safe and proper loads, especially in a black powder gun like the 1873.

Years ago I loaded for and shot my 1873 (made in 1876).

I used .44 Special brass and an obsolete Lee or Lyman mold. Unfortunately I lost the information somewhere along the line as to what mold.

Results were not anything to write home about. The bullet, cast from pure lead, was a bit undersized and was starting to show evidence of keyholing at 10 yards.

It was a fun exercise, but that's all.

December 14, 2010, 09:08 AM	#7
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 13, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,390	Trail Boss is NOT a direct replacement for black powder! Unlike the old true bulk smokeless powders, you cannot load Trail Boss by volume alone and ensure that you have safe and proper loads, especially in a black powder gun like the 1873. Years ago I loaded for and shot my 1873 (made in 1876). I used .44 Special brass and an obsolete Lee or Lyman mold. Unfortunately I lost the information somewhere along the line as to what mold. Results were not anything to write home about. The bullet, cast from pure lead, was a bit undersized and was starting to show evidence of keyholing at 10 yards. It was a fun exercise, but that's all. __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.