How many grains?

[staggerwing]

"Two thumbs up" Good
"One thumb off" Bad

 

[arcticap]

Here's a picture of staggerwing's derringer:

 

[simonkenton]

Is that a brass ramrod, or a brass scope?

 

[arcticap]

Is that the Classic Arms New Orleans Ace Pistol [Kit]?
It sure looks like it along with the similar barrel measurement.
Some of their models are also sold already factory finished.

Is that a brass ramrod, or a brass scope?

That's the brass ramrod offset at about a 45 degree angle.


http://www.dixiegunworks.com/product_info.php?cPath=22_162_194&products_id=868

 

[staggerwing]

That certainly looks to be the same. The piece I have has no marks or stamps of any kind, but the parts look identical. Thanks articap for all your help. So waddya think? Live load or not?

 

[simonkenton]

If that is the Dixie pistol, fire it up!

Read the reviews on the Dixie link that arcticap gave, all the guys are shooting it.
Fifteen grains of powder and off you go.

 

[B.L.E.]

Pyrodex powder: $18.00
Lead balls (100 ct) $14.00
Percussion caps $5.00
Powder measure: Priceless

Powder measure: Free at most public ranges. Pick up an empty 9mm pistol cartridge and use it to measure the powder charge. It will hold approximately 13-14 grains of black powder, nearly perfect for the derringer.