Kik & compression ,how much ?

[runnin lead]

I am getting ready to put together some test loads for my Trapdoor & have some
Kik 3f for my muzzleloaders that I would like to give a try. How much compression does Kik seem to like?
My 1874 with Swiss 1 1/2 does great with powder droped to where base of bullet is when seated + 2gr + .030 wad. Wondering if Kik would like same or more ?

[Don McDowell]

Haven't shot any of the 3f, but the 2f and the 1.5 in the 45-70's that hang around here don't seem to care whether it's compressed or not. Shoots well with little to no compression and shoots well with it smashed down the case enough to seat heavy bullets to the grease groove.

[Lead pot]

I dont think 3F KIK has been shot to much yet to get any sort of a reliable answer yet
I have had it for a short time but only shot 10 rounds. Not enough to give you an answer.
I would say start with light compression .100 and see what it does.
I get the best accuracy with the 1.5 KIK with just seating a wad using a hand follower.

[RMulhern]

I'm using 105 grs. KIK 2F in 45 2 7/8 and compressing .475" and getting good accuracy! Also using a .350" lube cookie.

[JeffinNZ]

I am a firm believer that the amount of compression is not the critical factor. The amound of powder is and it is the compression that dictates how much of said powder is able to be fitted into the case. Case in point, in my .38-303 I load 60gr Swiss 1.5Fg compressed 0.35 inch. Now that is about 0.35 inch more compression than most 'experts' say Swiss likes but my rifle LOVES it. This load produces the same velocity and accuracy as 50gr of Swiss 3Fg which is not compressed. Both charges take up the same space though one is compressed.

I believe you have to load a powder charge until you find the sweet spot for your rifle and compressing the charge is the way to increase your loading range.