Joe_S wrote on Jun 25
th, 2023 at 10:27pm:
We often use the term "black powder substitute" to refer to powders, such as pyrodex, which can be loaded basically just like black powder. The owner made a mistake, but it could happen to anyone. I admonish new reloaders to never us a load that is not supported by a loading manual, but I have to admit I have not always followed that advice. I started shooting a powder based on the recommendation of a forum member which was not listed in any loading manual for the cartridge which I used it in. So far, so good, but I dont think I would do it again.
At any rate, I hope the owner knows how lucky he is: no one got hurt. The equipment can be replaced.
Keep this in mind: familiarity breeds contempt. The more we think we know, the more likely we are to let our guard down, so the moral of the story is be as careful as you can at all times, whether re-loading, shooting, cleaning etc. There is little margin for error, and anyone can make a mistake, I have made more than I care to admit and have been lucky each time.
Joe S
Prior to using a ballistic program to check loads, I always checked multiple manuals for load data to confirm they all gave close, or similar results. That's the way I was taught when my mentor pointed out two old Ideal or Lyman manuals with the exact same velocity, but one was almost twice as large powder charge. Obviously an error, but to a new loader, I bet someone back then using the load got a big surprise in their .44 Magnum handgun!
With my ballistic program I just punch in the powder, bullet weight, and cartridge, and it will not just tell me if it's safe, but also if it's a good enough load to burn efficiently, and keep deviations small.