Powder storage

[Lyle]

I have just started shooting a Pietta 1851 Navy. Do you leave your powder in the flask after shooting or do you return it to the original container? Is there a safety issue or quality issues if left in the flask? Does Pyrodex store better then real BP?

[Captainkirk]

I have just started shooting a Pietta 1851 Navy. Do you leave your powder in the flask after shooting or do you return it to the original container? Is there a safety issue or quality issues if left in the flask? Does Pyrodex store better then real BP?

I always return the powder to the original container. I've definitely had Pyrodex go bad after being left in the flask.

[ShotgunDave]

I have several flasks with BP in them. I never return it to the original container, and it works perfect. Pyrodex on the hand, has a shelf life once opened. It definitely loses some of it's punch after a while.

[tljack]

I am fortunate to have numerous horns and flasks. Been shooting black over 40 years and have always left the powder in them.

I have no idea about that artificial stuff.

[Hawg]

I've not had any problems with opened containers of Pyro. Black will last virtually forever.

[mike116]

I would guess that I have 15 or so flasks or powder horns with black powder stored in them.   No problems so far.

[mazo kid]

I also have several flasks with black powder stored in them for many years with no problem. I don't shoot the fake stuff so I can't speak to that.

[AlaskanGuy]

it mostly just a moisture thing in my opinion. if you live in heavy humidity area's like I do, return it !!! it will attract moisture.. if you are in a climate controlled home, no worries..

[ssb73q]

Hi, IMO Pryodex should be returned to the nearest sewer.   



Regards,
Richard

[mazo kid]

Black powder is a mixture, it can absorb moisture; but it can also be dried out. We have high humidity here, 80-95% in the summer. If you left powder openly exposed to the air, it possibly could take up moisture; but I think flasks and horns do a pretty good job of sealing off their contents.

[mazo kid]

Modern black powder is coated with graphite ( the "g" in ffffg) and that helps with keeping powder dry.

[tljack]

Hi, IMO Pryodex should be returned to the nearest sewer.   



Regards,
Richard

I have been told it will make your lawn very green! Otherwise I am with you.

[Hawg]

Black powder is a mixture, it can absorb moisture; but it can also be dried out. We have high humidity here, 80-95% in the summer. If you left powder openly exposed to the air, it possibly could take up moisture; but I think flasks and horns do a pretty good job of sealing off their contents.

As long as they're airtight. Most cheap horns and flasks aren't. If real black gets damp it will clump. If it does break it up and screen it after it dries and it will be fine. If anybody has any Pyrodex they don't want they can send it to me.

[tljack]

Is your lawn needing to be greened up? 

[Captainkirk]

Some of us have had issues getting real black powder at times. Pyrodex is available anywhere you can buy modern ML supplies. I've done well with it since the 1980's.