16ga.com ~ View topic

Joined: 20 Jun 2011 Posts: 119 Location: Illinois

With the primer shortage does anyone have any experience with using 209 blackpowder primers? I know the only way to really know is to get them tested, but are they similar to a Federal 209a. I have a lead on some and was thinking about purchasing incase I get into a primer pinch this summer.

Mike

Joined: 04 Mar 2019 Posts: 1841 Location: Central ND

I wouldn't think that they are very stout. It doesn't take much to light off black powder. I highly doubt they are anything like a Federal 209A. I would think they are more like a mild euro primer.

Joined: 20 Jun 2011 Posts: 119 Location: Illinois

Thanks Mark, In an online review one guy posted that he normally uses 209a and has a very clean bore after shooting. He used the blackpowder 209s and said he had a lot of residue left in the barrel.

I have heard they are quite mild .... maybe like the old 57 primers !?

Joined: 11 Dec 2017 Posts: 77 Location: South Dakota

I'm guessing you are asking about smokeless loads, which I have not tried. Those muzzleloader 209's work great with black powder, and most of the BP substitutes.

Joined: 20 Jun 2011 Posts: 119 Location: Illinois

Yes, my intent is to possibly use them with smokeless powder in light trap and skeet loads should I run out of regular primers.

Joined: 04 Mar 2019 Posts: 1841 Location: Central ND

This is a WAG, but look into a powder like American Select, which is about as close to a single base powder as you can get. Single base powders are generally easier to light off than double base.