Smokeless in black-powder guns, a historical perspective

[Pinfire]

Apologies for cross-posting, but this forum might be more interested in historical discussions.

The use of nitrocellulose powders in Britain predates by some four decades the nitro-proofing of guns, a fact that is mostly absent from the literature. One cannot say how many pin-fire actions were weakened, or barrels blown, by over-pressure loads, but you can read about it in the latest issue of The Vintage Gun journal by clicking here.

 

[Londonshooter]

Apologies for cross-posting, but this forum might be more interested in historical discussions.

The use of nitrocellulose powders in Britain predates by some four decades the nitro-proofing of guns, a fact that is mostly absent from the literature. One cannot say how many pin-fire actions were weakened, or barrels blown, by over-pressure loads, but you can read about it in the latest issue of The Vintage Gun journal by clicking here.

Well done, Steve! Great read.

 

[gunlaker]

Here is an old article from 1905 that you guys might find interesting.

https://www.artfulbullet.com/index....eless-loads-for-target-rifles-june-1905.3290/

Chris.

 

[NorthWoods22]

On the american side, Remington UMC was loading smokeless as early as the 1890's.
Here's a sample from ther 1899 catalog.






By their 1905 catalog they have smokeless versions for the majority of their pistol and rifle calibers,
you can read the full catalog here. Also comes with very handy original black powder loading data since they specify the bullet weight and charge weight in every black powder cartridge:
https://archive.org/details/1905-umc

 

[Pinfire]

Interesting additions, thanks. So, it took 40 years between the time when folks started using nitro in Britain and guns started to be proof tested with it. By that time nitro powder started to be available across the Pond in North America, and about another ten years before it was pretty commonplace (though black powder was still in use a well). Of course, it took a lot of improving before the formulas were safe and predictable (and factories stopped blowing up).

 

[gunlaker]

Yeah I think it took a while to sort everything out. I know that as late as 1900 a black powder rifle ( Borchardt ) was used to win the 1000 yard match at Sea Girt, besting the smokeless rifles used.

Chris.

 

[Painkillers]

The very thought sends shivers down the spine.