Black Powder Alternative

[kevikens]

I have a repro model 1859 sharps, the one where fouling freezes the breech after a few shots. I know about conversions but I am looking for a cleaner black powder substitute for hunting, not re-enacting, one that burns cleaner. I hear Blackhorn 209 is cleaner but I don't know if a musket cap will set it off. Have any of you tried it or Black Mag3 or American Pioneer? I have tried pyrodex. Same fouling mess as BP. Thanks

[Dave Fox]

I'm not certain any black powder substitute will give satisfacory results in a Sharps. To function as intended, it needs that BP abrupt pressure curve. I've got an original carbine and rifle which had the "light" Charlie Hahn breech jobs. Cheap, fast turn around, and I can cycle 40 rounds through without cleaning...a revelation! I've played with the carbine 50 years and never, ever expected such satisfaction.

[Edwin Flint]

I am not a fan of any of the subs you mention. There are few subs that have the initial preasure to make a sharps function. If I were to try one, it would be Triple seven.