I've read loads of info on this site about black powder cartridges, but have yet to actually load any. I've always wanted to, but finding black powder around me is a hassle.
Anyway I acquired a pound of Goex FFFg powder from a guy at work who's father passed.
My current load with my 45/70 is the Lee 405 grain hollow base bullet over either 12gn of Trail Boss or 40gn of H4895 if I feel like getting beat up. The gun is a model 1873 trapdoor that I just assume is the weakest of the weak when I make my cartridges.
The bullets are lubed with the alox/paste wax concoction that is posted on this site.
So the idea is to fill the case with powder and place a milk carton cutout wad (or two) between the powder and bullet. Then compress the powder with the seating of the bullet.
So the main questions are:
1. Is this sane
2. How much compression
3. Is it okay to use the hollow base bullets.
I'm not planning on making this a full time venture, just would like to use what I have to try it out and then probably love it and make it a full time venture. The point being, I don't want to have to buy a bunch of stuff if this is going to be a short time thing.
I also plan on securing the gun to a lead sled and firing from a distance in case of catastrophe for the first couple cartridges. I did this for my first smokeless loads for it as well just in case since the gun is pretty old. So far there has been absolutely no issues with it at all. The gun functions great.
So if I'm in above my head here let me know. I'd rather not do it than be dangerous. The knowledge base on this board is incredibly valuable and I'm sure many have once been in my position and have had just enough info to get themselves into trouble. I'm trying to avoid that bit if possible.
Thanks in advance!