Shooting SA with Black Powder 38/40

[August]

Soon, there will be a pair of Longhunter tuned SAs in the safe.  What preparations should I make to shoot black (real black) in them?  I am assuming that these guns -- in this caliber -- are set for black powder.  I would like to hear about your experience with shooting USFA gunz with gun powder.

Thanks.

[Fox Creek Kid]

I am assuming that these guns -- in this caliber -- are set for black powder.

Technically speaking, no gun is "set" for BP. Colt developed the cylinder pin contained in a bushing as a means to aid cylinder rotation while shooting real gunpowder, i.e., black powder. USFA has copied this design and it works well, but be advised you need to do two VERY important things before shooting BP in your revolver.

1.  Generously lube the cylinder pin with preferrably a natural lubricant.

2.  Only use cast bullets that are lubed specifically for BP.

Good Luck!! 

[August]

Well, upon speaking with L.H. today, I learned that USFA SAs come with a .006 cylinder gap.  I further learned that BP shooters prefer a .008 cylinder gap, with some folks going out to .010.  So, being conservative by nature, I asked him to open them up .001 to .007.  He said "fine."  We'll see what they guage out at when they come.

Assuming .007 should prove to be to narrow, is a stone and some bluing all that is necessary to open them up more.  Or, is there some trick with the bushing that will make things more generous?  Or, would I be best served by sending them back to Jim?

Thanks for helping me to learn the ropes.

[Pettifogger]

There ain't bug snots worth of difference between .006 and .007 as far as shooting is concerned.  As long as the gap is over .003 or .004 what makes the difference is the proper bullet and lube, i.e., soft lead bullet and lots of BP compatible lube.  If you are shooting the subs, any bullet and lube can be used.

[Trooper224]

My only advice would be not to get carried away with the modifications before shooting the pistols.  Take them out and shoot them as-is and you may find they work perfectly well.  If not, fine, but don't go to a lot of unneccesary expense if you don't have to.  I second the comments on keeping them well lubed, that's the real secret with blackpowder.

[Appalachian Ed]

LEAVE THEM ALONE. They will shoot just fine with BP and the proper bullet and Lube.

-Ed