Hi folks.

I recently purchased a new 1892 Winchester in .45 Colt and want to shoot black powder loads. Is this commonly done or is it avoided due risk of corrosion from BP or water used in cleaning the barrel?

If an accpetable practice, are there any special procedures or concerns, or tips to avoid getting water or BP salts in the linkage or firing pin hole, or special cleaning products? All advice appreciated

John

Well, you do have to clean the guns and cases asap after you shoot, just like any other BP gun.

I don't load BP cartridges, but I'm told that the big problem with straight-cased cartridges in BP lever rifles comes from the low pressure not sealing the case in the chamber, letting some of the crud into the action. Necked cartridges allegedly seal better at the neck, and are less of a problem. According to this school of thought, you might be happier if you swap the .45 for a .44-40 or other necked cartridge.

On the other hand, plenty of straight-cased BP lever rifles were made, in calibers like .38-55 and .45-70, so I'm sure it can be done.

The big reason nobody chambered a lever rifle in .45 Colt until the CAS market demanded one is the tiny rim on the .45. Works fine on a revolver, jams like crazy in a lever rifle - or at least did until lately.

Check out my reply under "Black Powder Cartridge and Loading" regarding black powder loads in the 45 long Colt.