#10 cap vs #11 cap whats the differance

[Dave.S]

I have a percussion pistol,Can I use #11 caps for it as they seem more readily available.Its an antique and the caps seem to fit fine.Dave

 

[Scar270]

The 10's are smaller diameter, usually pistols have nipples that take #10's and rifles take #11's, but thats not an absolute, all my blackpowders are the opposite of that..go figure..

 

[emmab]

Will an 11 work on a 10? Or will it fall off. Have .36 cal pistol and not sure which would fit

 

[tiriaq]

One way to find out....
If a cap is too big, it can be pinched to hold it in place. If it is too small, it won't seat on the nipple, and misfires will result.
If a nipple is too big, it is easy to polish it down. Chuck it up in an electric drill (or lathe if you've got access to one) and spin the nipple against a file or abrasive, depending on how hard it is. Go easy, keep trying a cap until it pushes on and bottoms without too much force, or is loose.