Black Powder Fun: Enjoying a Vintage Trapdoor Springfield & Colt 45 Replica

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In summary, the friend and coworker got me out to shoot black powder yesterday, and I had a blast. I shot a vintage Springfield with a 50-round selection of severe loads, and the loader traveled to Alaska to shoot Kodiaks with his father-in-law. All in all, a great day of shooting!
  • #1
Integral
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Years ago I hunted and shot guns with regulatrity but just 20yrs ago I sold my sweet little Ruger 10-22 and have not fired a shot since.

A friend and coworker has been trying to get me out black powder shooting for several years now. Finally, yesterday we "got 'r done"

Here I am holding a vintage trapdoor Springfield. This rifle belonged to a Great uncle of my friend who used it while training for the Spanish Ameican war in the late 1800's, it has been in their family since and has his initialls stamped in the stock. http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/springfield.JPG

If fires a 45-70 round http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/45_70rounds.JPG

We also fired a Colt 45 replica

http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/capnball_pistol.JPG


We made lots of noise and had lots of fun.. What more can you ask of a day?
 
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  • #2
Nice pictures! I know what your thinking to yourself, did I shoot 5 shots, or did I shoot 6. So you gota ask yourself one question...Do you feel lucky, punk...well...do you?
 
  • #3
Integral said:
http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/45_70rounds.JPG
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And they double as tent stakes.
 
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  • #4
Ivan Seeking said:
And they double as tent stakes.
:rofl: You ain't getting me to hammer one in though.
 
  • #5
cyrusabdollahi said:
did I shoot 5 shots, or did I shoot 6.
The only problem with that is that the question only applies to double-action revolvers or new-generation singles. Nobody with an ounce of brains ever carries 6 rounds in a single action piece. They're 5-shooters, not 6; you always carry an empty chamber under the hammer. Now that they have the transfer bar safety, you can carry six, but that's only been in the last 25-30 years.
 
  • #6
Integral said:
Years ago I hunted and shot guns with regulatrity but just 20yrs ago I sold my sweet little Ruger 10-22 and have not fired a shot since.

A friend and coworker has been trying to get me out black powder shooting for several years now. Finally, yesterday we "got 'r done"

Here I am holding a vintage trapdoor Springfield. This rifle belonged to a Great uncle of my friend who used it while training for the Spanish Ameican war in the late 1800's, it has been in their family since and has his initialls stamped in the stock. http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/springfield.JPG

If fires a 45-70 round http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/45_70rounds.JPG

We also fired a Colt 45 replica

http://home.comcast.net/~Integral50/capnball_pistol.JPG


We made lots of noise and had lots of fun.. What more can you ask of a day?
The .45-70 was the favorite round of the US military for many years, and the prevalence of trapdoors has prevented the development of higher-powered loads, since nobody wants to see folks get blown up. I have a Ruger Model 1, and have been given a 50-round selection of SEVERE loads for the .45-70 that rival any big-game loads that currently exist. If I've got to shoot an elephant or a cape buffalo, I'm all set. I'll stay with commercial rounds for deer, and maybe ramp up if I get a moose permit. The loader travels to Alaska with his father-in-law and shoots Kodiaks, so perhaps the heavy loads are justified.
 
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1. What is black powder and how does it differ from modern gunpowder?

Black powder, also known as gunpowder, is a chemical mixture composed of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate. It was the first type of explosive used in firearms and is still used in vintage guns. Modern gunpowder, on the other hand, is a more refined and powerful version of black powder, using different ingredients and manufacturing processes.

2. Is it safe to use black powder in vintage firearms?

Yes, as long as the proper precautions are taken. Black powder can be dangerous if mishandled, so it is important to follow all safety guidelines and use the correct amount for your specific firearm. It is also important to properly clean and maintain your vintage firearm to ensure safe and accurate use.

3. Can I use modern ammunition in a vintage trapdoor Springfield or Colt 45 replica?

No, it is not recommended to use modern ammunition in vintage firearms. The dimensions and specifications of modern ammunition may differ from those of vintage firearms, which can cause malfunctions and potentially damage the gun. It is best to use black powder and lead bullets specifically designed for vintage firearms.

4. Are there any legal restrictions for owning and using black powder firearms?

Yes, there are laws and regulations that vary by state and country. It is important to research and follow all local laws regarding the ownership and use of black powder firearms. Additionally, it is important to obtain the proper licenses and permits if required.

5. What are the benefits of using black powder in vintage firearms?

Using black powder in vintage firearms can provide a more authentic experience, as it was the original propellant used in these guns. It also allows for a slower and more controlled burn, which can result in less recoil and better accuracy. Black powder is also generally more affordable than modern ammunition.

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