Can I use American Pioneer® or Jim Shockeys™ GOLD™ powders when loading black powder cartridges?
A. Absolutely! As a matter of fact these powders are used by a number of the top cowboy action and mounted shooters in a variety of calibers, both in traditional black powder cartridges such as .45-70 and modern calibers such as .44 magnum. Basic loading instructions are to fill the case to the point where the bullet will slightly compress the powder, about 1/16″, when seated, seat the bullet and crimp. DO NOT drill out the primer hole. The use of ‘grease cookies’ or wads is not needed or recommended. No special black powder lube is required for the bullet and regular smokeless lubed bullets actually work the best. As this is a ‘bulk’ type powder, it is important that the case be filled completely, leaving NO air space or gap. The use of fillers or wads is NOT recommended as some studies indicate that they can cause a ‘ringed’ barrel when used.
