Hodgson 777 FFG in a .44 revolver

[Ben Denise]

Morning chaps,

Simple question, is this OK to use? I normally use the FFFG variant but have run out and now can't buy any more (no BP/explosives licence). I do however have some FFG, just not sure if it's safe to use in a Pietta New Model Army.

Any advice gratefully received. :)

[dromia]

Best to go by whatever Hodgdon say in their reloading data sheets.

[Ben Denise]

Unfortunately they don't have any data for .44 pistol, other than the 3F powder. Despite that, I'm sure people have used it so was looking for personal experience.

[dromia]

If there is no data then there can be no loads given on here as all loads have to reference published, pressure tested, load data.

Tripple 7 is a smokeless powder with some black powder characteristics, it is not a powder to muck around with loads. It is not like black powder at all.

Contact Hodgdon and see what they advise.

[1066]

Am I right in thinking the recent changes mean that 777 (but not Pyrodex) now requires an explosive license just the same as BP?

[dromia]

You are correct Allan, Tripple 7 is now classed as an explosive.

[Dark Skies]

Morning chaps,

Simple question, is this OK to use? I normally use the FFFG variant but have run out and now can't buy any more (no BP/explosives licence). I do however have some FFG, just not sure if it's safe to use in a Pietta New Model Army.

Any advice gratefully received. :)

"Triple Seven FFG Granular Powder
Designed for shotguns and rifles, 50 caliber and larger, as well as cartridges. FFG is also usable in muskets and large-bore pistols.
Hodgdon’s revolutionary granulated muzzleloading propellant that cleans up with water alone. Contains no sulfur, so there are no strong smells and clean-up is a breeze." Hodgon

Because it's a medium powder, you'll may find it might not ignite as reliably or as fast as the correct powder. You might get those noticeable lags between squeezing the trigger and it going bang.
It won't do any harm, but may be rather disappointing.
If memory serves, the Pietta NMA uses a .454" ball - .046" shy of .50" or approx 1.07 mm difference, so not a huge chasm away from the smallest ball it's designed for.

[Ben Denise]

Thanks for that Dark Skies.