Black Powder Shotgun Loads

[aussiebob]

Hi

 

I am acquiring a 1878 W.C. Scott Side by Side that is Black Powder proofed, and uses 2 1/2" shells.

 

I would like to shoot it.

 

Any advice from black powder shotgun reloaders welcome.

 

I am in the process of finding a gunsmith to have the gun checked out.

 

I am in the USA

 

Plan on using paper hulls and roll crimping the shells.

 

Thanks

[Andy H]

One of the old loads for bp is a square load if you want 1oz loads use the 1oz shotdipper to measure your bp out then a wad that will bring it up to the correct height and then your 1oz of shot

[aussiebob]

Andy

 

My main concern is the age of the gun, an 1878 W.C. Scott BP Proofed hammer gun with damascus barrels. I am looking for a gunsmith in the US that can evaluate this gun for safe use. Anyone on this board that can help, will be much appreciated. Although I would be willing to send it to England if needed.

 

Due to it's age and if the gunsmith thinks it will be OK to use, I was thinking of starting out with a light load, 7/8 oz #8 and same volume of Black Powder, and working up to a 1oz of #8 shot and the same volume of Black Powder as for the 7/8oz, then finally a square load for 1oz #8 shot. Checking the gun for problems after each type of load.

 

If it comes about that the barrels are unsafe, then I will have to start saving to have a new set of barrels made for this gun, it is too nice to just be a wall hanger.

 

Thanks