Best black powder for .38-40 in rifles?

[kipk49]

Hi all,

My father and I just got a Turnbull-restored Winchester 1873 in .38-40, and want to try some BP loads for it. Neither of us have shot BP in cartridge rifles before, so this is new territory.

What brand and granulation size powder would you recommend? I was strongly leaning towards Swiss 3F based on older threads I read, wanted to see if anyone had any experience or advice on other options.

Thanks,
Kip

[Nobade]

That will work just fine. Main thing is to have appropriate bullets with good BP type lube.

[Don McDowell]

I've had good results with regular Goex 3f, Olde Eynsford 2 and 3f. The RCBS 180 gr bullet and Bullshop NASA, or SPG lube.

Biggest problem you'll have right now is catching any real black in stock.

[HWooldridge]

I've had good results with regular Goex 3f, Olde Eynsford 2 and 3f. The RCBS 180 gr bullet and Bullshop NASA, or SPG lube.

Biggest problem you'll have right now is catching any real black in stock.

Agreed - might have to use whatever you can find - none of it is readily available.

[indian joe]

That will work just fine. Main thing is to have appropriate bullets with good BP type lube.

this !!!!!!!!

[Nobade]

I've had good results with regular Goex 3f, Olde Eynsford 2 and 3f. The RCBS 180 gr bullet and Bullshop NASA, or SPG lube.

Biggest problem you'll have right now is catching any real black in stock.

Graf had Swiss 3f yesterday...

[Lead pot]

Fed-X just dropped off some 1.5 Swiss here yesterday from Buff Arms

[namsag]

These days I would say, whatever you can find.