What type of powder should be used in muzzle-loading firearms?

Muzzle-loading firearms are specifically designed to operate with certain types of powder that can sustain the combustion process necessary for firing. The correct type of powder for muzzle-loading firearms is black powder and its modern substitutes, such as Pyrodex.

Black powder is the traditional propellant used for centuries in muzzle-loaders, consisting of a mixture of saltpeter, charcoal, and sulfur. Pyrodex is a modern black powder substitute that provides similar performance and is easier to handle and store compared to traditional black powder. These types of powders have larger grain sizes and a slower burn rate compared to smokeless powder, which is designed for modern firearms.

Using the appropriate powder is crucial for safety and performance because smokeless powder and modern rifle powder burn at much higher pressures and are not designed for the action and structure of muzzle-loading firearms. Using these types of powders could lead to dangerous malfunctions or catastrophic failures of the firearm. Thus, it is essential to use only black powder or Pyrodex in muzzle-loading firearms to ensure safe and effective operation.