Blackhorn 209 muzzleloader powder represents a revolutionary leap 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 compares to traditional alternatives like Triple Se7en.
Why Shooters Prefer Blackhorn 209 Powder
Blackhorn 209 is widely regarded by the muzzleloading community for its excellent performance and user-friendly characteristics. According to expert reviews and shooter feedback, it offers several key benefits.
Minimal Fouling & Easy Reloading: Unlike traditional black powder, Blackhorn 209 is designed to leave virtually no solid residue. This means you can fire multiple shots without needing to swab the barrel between shots, saving time during range sessions or when a second shot is needed while hunting. This is a major point of contrast Blackhorn 209 powder with powders like Triple Se7en, which often necessitates cleaning due to hard fouling.
Superior Accuracy & Consistency: The powder granules of Blackhorn 209 provides remarkably consistent burn rates. In chronograph testing, it has shown tight velocity spreads, which translates directly to improved accuracy downrange. This consistency is highly valued for ethical hunting.
Reliable in All Conditions: Blackhorn 209 is not affected by moisture, so its performance remains stable with changes in humidity or temperature. This dependability gives hunters greater confidence in damp environments.
Potent Ballistics: When measured by the same volume, Blackhorn 209 is a more energetic propellant than many substitutes. It can achieve impressive velocities, often matching or exceeding the velocity of other powders with a lighter load.
Direct Comparison: Blackhorn 209 vs. Triple Se7en and Others
When evaluating options, many shooters compare Blackhorn 209 against popular alternatives like Hodgdon's Triple Se7en (T7). Here is a side-by-side comparison 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 consensus among experienced shooters 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 crazy prices".
Proper Usage with Blackhorn 209: Loading and Safety
To achieve the best results from Blackhorn 209, it's crucial to follow the correct procedures. Always consult your firearm's manual and start with published starting loads.
Gun Requirements: Blackhorn 209 is designed for contemporary rifles with a sealed breech system using standard 209 primers. It is not recommended for use with musket caps or in traditional firearms.
Measuring Your Charge: Blackhorn 209 is used by volume, like all black powder substitutes. You can use a standard black powder 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 too weak for reliable ignition.
Keeping the Plug Clean: Reliable ignition depends on a clean flash channel. Residue from primers can build up in the channel, causing delayed ignition or misfires. Regularly clear the channel every 15-20 shots with a properly sized bit (turned by hand) to ensure consistent performance.
Post-Shooting Care: After shooting, clean your barrel with oil-based solvents. Avoid water or water-based black powder solvents, as they are less effective and can promote rust.
Find Blackhorn 209 Powder and Accessories
Ready to experience the difference? You can view all options and buy Blackhorn 209 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 complete selection, browse the product category: Blackhorn 209 Powders.
Final Thoughts
Blackhorn 209 stands out for the shooter seeking the ultimate combination of power, precision, and ease of use in a muzzleloading propellant. While its price point is higher, the benefits of a cleaner gun, greater consistency, and less time spent swabbing make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. By following the correct guidelines and cleaning procedures, you can unlock the full potential of your inline rifle.