The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Why do Shotguns use fast (pistol) powders?

Doyle · March 7, 2011, 07:35 PM

I think more than the "shock absorber" wad is the fact that the very large bore size means that pressure doesn't have a chance to build up too quickly. It is the rapid pressure buildup that makes you use a slower powder in a rifle (as opposed to the same diameter ammo being used in a short-barreled pistol).

March 7, 2011, 07:35 PM	#3
Doyle Senior Member Join Date: June 20, 2007 Location: Rainbow City, Alabama Posts: 7,167	I think more than the "shock absorber" wad is the fact that the very large bore size means that pressure doesn't have a chance to build up too quickly. It is the rapid pressure buildup that makes you use a slower powder in a rifle (as opposed to the same diameter ammo being used in a short-barreled pistol).