Blackhorn 209 muzzleloader powder represents a significant advancement in modern muzzleloading technology. As a high-performance propellant, it is designed to deliver exceptional performance for hunters and shooting enthusiasts. This guide provides a detailed look at Blackhorn 209, including its key advantages, correct usage methods, and how it stacks up against traditional alternatives like Triple Se7en.
Why Hunters Choose Blackhorn 209 Powder
Blackhorn 209 is widely regarded by the muzzleloading community for its excellent performance and shooter-friendly characteristics. According to independent testing and shooter feedback, it offers several distinct advantages.
Extremely Low Residue & No Swabbing: Unlike traditional black powder, Blackhorn 209 is designed to leave minimal fouling. This means you can fire multiple shots without needing to swab the barrel between shots, saving time during target practice or when a quick follow-up shot is needed while hunting. This is a frequent point of contrast with powders like Triple Se7en, which often requires swabbing due to hard fouling.
Exceptional Consistency & Accuracy: The powder granules of Blackhorn 209 provides highly uniform burn rates. In velocity tests, it has shown very low standard deviations, which translates directly to tighter groups downrange. This consistency is highly valued for long-range shooting.
Stable in Humidity & Temperature: Blackhorn 209 is not affected by moisture, so its performance does not degrade with changes in humidity or temperature. This dependability gives hunters greater confidence in variable weather.
Potent Ballistics: When measured by equivalent volume, Blackhorn 209 is a more energetic propellant than many substitutes. It can achieve high speeds, often matching or exceeding the velocity of other powders with a lighter load.
Direct Comparison: Blackhorn 209 vs. Triple Se7en and Others
When choosing a powder, many shooters compare Blackhorn 209 against popular alternatives like Hodgdon's Triple Se7en (T7). Here is a clear breakdown based on community feedback 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 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, cleanliness, and high-end performance that many find justify the higher price. As one shooter noted, "209 has no equal, that's why they can charge crazy prices".
Proper Usage with Blackhorn 209: Loading Data and Safety Notes
To get the most from Blackhorn 209, it's crucial to follow the right techniques. Always consult 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 not recommended for use with musket caps or in traditional firearms.
Powder Measurement: Blackhorn 209 is measured volumetrically, 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.
Critical Ignition Tips: Use only standard or magnum 209 shotshell primers. The CCI 209M and Federal 209A are the top choices. Avoid so-called "muzzleloader" primers like Winchester Triple 7 or Remington Kleanbore, as they are not hot enough for reliable ignition.
Keeping the Plug click here Clean: Reliable ignition depends on a clean flash channel. Residue from primers can build up in the channel, causing delayed ignition or misfires. Clean the flash hole every few rounds with a properly sized bit (turned by hand) to ensure consistent performance.
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 cause corrosion.
Find Blackhorn 209 Powder and Accessories
Ready to try it for yourself? You can view all options and buy Blackhorn 209 from the official source.
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 complete selection, browse the product category: Blackhorn 209 Powders.
Conclusion
Blackhorn 209 stands out for the shooter seeking the best blend of power, precision, and convenience in a muzzleloading propellant. While its initial cost is higher, the advantages of less cleaning, more reliable performance, and reduced maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. By following the proper loading and maintenance steps, you can unlock the full potential of your modern muzzleloader.