The full version with hand loading information (not permitted on YouTube) is available here:
https://forgottenweapons.vhx.tv/videos/black-powder-ep-4-app
Black powder military rifles of the 1860s-1880s are a really enjoyable group of guns. A lot of them are relatively reasonably priced, and they are actually pretty easy to reload for. The unavailability of factory ammunition (for most, although not so much for the Trapdoor) makes them seem like a daunting prospect, but for a pretty simple investment in tools and time one can make up ammunition and have a lot of fun with rifles like this.
That’s the idea behind a new series here on black powder military rifles. Each month, my friend – and handloader – Tom and I will take out a different model to have some fun at the range and compare how they handle. And then we will show you how to make the ammunition for them. So grab your pith helmet, pause “Zulu” and join us! Today is Episode Three: the Mauser Gewehr 1871!
How is the Numrich catalog for barrel bands?
Can’t wait for the Remington rolling block! Mine’s an ex Argentine Modelo 1879 Patria in .43 Spanish 11.15x58mmR. I load a 370-gr. .439 bullet over about 65 to 67 grains of FFg black powder with two fiber wads under the bullet. At some point, I’ll have to try some mild smokeless loads.
It looks like the boys are concentrating on the second generation of black powder metallic cartridge models. Wish they would also try the original black powder metallic cartridge models like the Spencer and Sharps. This would let them show the improvements from the start of metallic cartridges.
“(…)second generation of black powder metallic cartridge(…)”
How is that defined?
…as for their last use in combat – were not these rifles used by von Lettow-Vorbeck askaris, who fought till the Armistice?
A handsome old iron. My only objection would be to going to the bayonet after say ten or fourteen rounds rapid. “But Herr Hauptmann, I vas never issued gloves! Zis cannot be according to His Majesty’s Regulations!”
Question: Is/was there any quick field remedy for fouling?