Have a nicely maintained Lyman .44 Cal Remington Army replica piece that has not been fired in years. However, would like to start shooting it again; and have been collecting necessary powder, balls etc. Also, have been reading more recent info on shooting black powder pieces, which brings me to my question. An older Lyman Reloading Handbook, 44th Edition, recommends a .451" ball with 39 grs Dupont FFFG Black Powder (Vel. 995 fps). However, recent data and forum discussions I have read recommend a .454" Dia ball for .44 Cal pistols. So, which diameter ball would be best for my Lyman?
Also, have only been able to obtain Hodgdon Pyrodex P (FFFG Equivalent) instead of actual Black Powder. Am a little confused reading up on this powder as to how it relates to actual Black Powder charge-wise (do to powder density etc). What would be a good charge range for the Hodgdon P powder as compared to regular Black Powder? Any thoughts?
Also, have only been able to obtain Hodgdon Pyrodex P (FFFG Equivalent) instead of actual Black Powder. Am a little confused reading up on this powder as to how it relates to actual Black Powder charge-wise (do to powder density etc). What would be a good charge range for the Hodgdon P powder as compared to regular Black Powder? Any thoughts?