How to measure black powder accurately? This is a fascinating issue for all shooters. It’s also controversial. Some claim that measuring by weight is the most precise method while measuring by volume can be the proof of a negligent shooter. We believe the truth lies somewhere in between.
Basics
To get a clear understanding of this subject, we first need to know the basic fundamentals. First, it is not something that is a compound, but rather a blend of different ingredients such as the elements of coal, potassium nitrate, and sulfur.
The process for making the granulated black powder didn’t change much over the past century. The strength and the quality of the powder will be contingent upon the purity of ingredients used, the mixing ratio, and the size of the corns.
The particles of black powder do not explode but instead burn on the surface of the charge and a large quantity of gas is produced. The greater the surface area the more gas that the charge produces. If you calculate by volume and then replace the 2Fg with 3Fg with the same volumetric measure, you will get more gas, higher pressure, and a higher muzzle velocity.
Weight or volume?
The amount of powder in the box is subject to change over the course of time. It may absorb moisture from the air, and the powder may be heavier than when you open the package for the first time. If you rely solely only on the scale, your volume can differ in July as opposed to March, from the same box of powder.
More volume equals larger particles. More particles mean more surface area and more burning surface implies more gases, greater pressure, and a higher muzzle velocity. Therefore, the question is clear: Should we forget the scales and instead stick to volumetric measurements?
The answer is simple: No, as measuring by volume is not always accurate in load. If you’re using a ladle type measure, the charge will depend on the way hor the powder settles. If you use a bench-mounted volumetric measure, the charge can also depend on the amount of powder in your container.
If you use a powder flask, the same thing happens: the more powder you have in it the more it will compress the charge in the spout. In this instance, it also depends on the force you put your fingers on the mouth of the spot. The volume will be reduced if the finger pressure is harder.
Method
Our method for having consistent loads is:
This technique ensures that you be able to have the same volume and measuring the charges by weight is another step to determine the consistency of the work.
This method is extremely accurate regardless of the season however, we must say that we use this method for the most important events. Remember that the volumetric measurement is the main element of the project, not registering any weight on the powder charge. For practice in the everyday and fun shooting, we prefer not to do the scale check part.
