Black Powder Matches…
“Different” would be the word to describe the matches and the range of firearms that are used to shoot these matches. The matches are shot using Cap and Ball revolvers or single shot Muzzle Loading percussion pistols. The firearms used are modern replicas of the 1850’s style hand guns which were used prior to the invention of metal cased cartridges. The chambers or barrel are loaded with black powder, hence the name, with a lead projectile – round ball or pointed, rammed on top. The charge is fired by the hammer striking a percussion cap which ignites the powder charge.
There are three matches
- Aggregate or 25 metre match – which is shot in two stages:
- Precision stage of four series of five shots in twelve minutes (loading time included)
- Rapid fire stage of four series of five shots on turning targets. One shot is fired on each three second target exposure.
- There is a five shot sighting series at the commencement of each stage
- Fifty metre match
- As the name implies is a precision match shot over fifty metres
- The course consists of four series of ten shots in thrity minutes (loading time included). The match is similar to the ISSF fifty metre match reduced to forty shots. Sighting shots with conditions are allowed
- International or thirteen shot match
- The match is a precision match shot over twenty five metres. The course of fire consists of one series of thirteen shots in thirty minutes. This match differs from other matches in that only the highest scoring ten shots are counted. There are no sighting shots.
Other information
Firearms are up to .46 calibre. Cap and Ball revolvers can be used in all matches with single shot pistols being limited to the fifty metre and thirteen shot matches. Categories of guns fall into either, Replica single sshot, Fixed sight revolver, Adjustable sight revolver and single shot pistol.
There is no minimum trigger weight but all trigger pressures must be safe to use. There are restrictions on allowable modifications to the standard pistol grip. Orthopedic grips are not permitted. Projectiles must be pure lead; commonly used projectiles are either round ball or pointed conical shape.