Blackhorn 209 Powder represents a significant advancement in modern muzzleloading technology. As a superior muzzleloading powder, it is designed to deliver exceptional performance for hunters and shooting enthusiasts. This guide provides a comprehensive overview at Blackhorn 209, including its key advantages, proper loading techniques, and how it stacks up against traditional alternatives like Triple Se7en.
Why Hunters Choose Blackhorn 209 Powder
Blackhorn 209 is highly recognized by the muzzleloading community for its excellent performance and user-friendly characteristics. According to expert reviews and shooter feedback, it offers several distinct advantages.
Minimal Fouling & Easy Reloading: Unlike other substitutes, Blackhorn 209 is designed to leave virtually no solid residue. This means you can fire several rounds without needing to swab the barrel between shots, increasing efficiency during range sessions or when a quick follow-up shot is needed while hunting. This is a major point of contrast with powders like Triple Se7en, which often requires swabbing due to hard fouling.
Exceptional Consistency & Accuracy: The granular formulation of Blackhorn 209 provides remarkably consistent burn rates. In chronograph testing, it has shown very low standard deviations, which translates directly to improved accuracy downrange. This consistency is highly valued for ethical hunting.
Stable in Humidity & Temperature: Blackhorn 209 is virtually non-hygroscopic, so its performance does not degrade with changes in humidity or temperature. This dependability gives hunters greater confidence in damp environments.
Higher Velocity Potential: When measured by equivalent volume, Blackhorn 209 is a potent propellant than many substitutes. It can achieve high speeds, often matching or exceeding the velocity of other powders with a smaller charge.
Direct Comparison: Blackhorn 209 vs. Triple Se7en and Others
When choosing a powder, many shooters compare Blackhorn 209 against other choices like Hodgdon's Triple Se7en (T7). Here is a side-by-side comparison based on user experiences and performance reviews.
Feature Blackhorn 209 Triple Se7en (T7) Traditional Black Powder/Pyrodex
Residue & Cleaning **Extremely low residue Very clean**. Allows for multiple shots many shots without swabbing. Cleans easily with oil-based solvents standard cleaners. Significant fouling Leaves hard residue. Often requires swabbing needs cleaning between shots for consistent loading proper seating. Corrosive Can cause rust. Heavy, corrosive read more fouling Very dirty. **Requires immediate Demands thorough** cleaning after use.
Consistency & Accuracy **Excellent consistency Very consistent** with low velocity spreads tight groups. Praised for long-range accuracy precision shooting. Good consistency Generally consistent, but can be less stable more variable lot-to-lot compared to BH209. Can be consistent but is greatly affected heavily influenced by loading technique packing density and environmental factors the weather.
Velocity (by Volume) High velocity Potent. ~**2032 fps 2000+ fps** with 120gr vol & 300gr bullet. Very good velocity Strong. ~**2066 fps 2000+ fps** with 150gr vol & 300gr bullet. Lower velocity Less potent compared to modern substitutes.
Cost **Higher premium price More expensive** (approx. 2-3x several times the cost of T7). **Cost-effective Affordable**. The standard choice go-to option for many budget-conscious shooters hunters. Generally inexpensive Low cost, but cleaning costs time spent cleaning add up.
Primer Requirements Requires **standard/hot 209 shotshell primers magnum 209 primers** (e.g., CCI 209M, Federal 209A). Works with a wider variety broad range of 209 primers ignition sources, including muzzleloader-specific weaker primers. Uses #11 caps musket caps or 209 primers shotgun primers depending on firearm.
The general opinion is clear: while Triple Seven is a good value propellant, Blackhorn 209 offers real advantages in ease of use, reduced mess, and high-end performance that many find worth the investment. As one shooter noted, "209 has no equal, that's why they can charge a premium".
Proper Usage with Blackhorn 209: Loading and Safety Notes
To achieve the best results from Blackhorn 209, it's crucial to follow the right techniques. First, check your firearm's manual and begin with minimum recommended charges.
Firearm Compatibility: Blackhorn 209 is designed for contemporary rifles with a sealed breech system using 209 shotgun primers. It is unsuitable for use with musket caps or in side-lock rifles.
Powder Measurement: Blackhorn 209 is used by volume, like all black powder substitutes. You can use a standard volumetric measure. A common starting load is 80 grains by volume, which equates to about 56 gr weight (multiply volume by 0.7). Many hunters find an accurate and effective load between 90-110 gr vol.
Key Primer Advice: Use only standard or magnum 209 shotshell primers. The CCI Magnum 209 and Federal 209A are highly recommended. Do not use so-called "muzzleloader" primers like Winchester Triple 7 or Remington Kleanbore, as they are too weak for reliable ignition.
Keeping the Plug Clean: Reliable ignition depends on a clear path for the flame. Residue from primers can build up in the channel, causing hang-fires or misfires. Clean the flash hole every 15-20 shots with a 1/8-inch drill bit (turned by hand) to ensure reliable shots.
Proper Cleaning: After shooting, clean your barrel with solvents like Hoppe's No. 9. Do not use water or water-based black powder solvents, as they are not necessary and can promote rust.
Find Blackhorn 209 Powder and Related Gear
Ready to try it for yourself? You can explore the full product line and purchase directly from the manufacturer's website.
Visit the main website at Blackhorn 209 Black Powder.
To purchase the powder itself, see the product page here: Blackhorn 209 High Performance Muzzleloading Powders.
For a full range of powders, browse the product category: Blackhorn 209 Powders.
Conclusion
Blackhorn 209 stands out for the shooter seeking the best blend of performance, accuracy, and convenience in a muzzleloading propellant. While its initial cost is higher, the advantages of less cleaning, more reliable performance, and less time spent swabbing make it a worthwhile investment for dedicated shooters. By following the correct guidelines and cleaning procedures, you can unlock the full potential of your modern muzzleloader.