Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Muzzleloaders Question About 777

How long does 777 keep? I've had a jug for several years. The first year, my accuracy was spot on. The last few times I've been to the range, my groups have opened up substantially, and my shots were hitting low, as if the powder was getting weaker. Is it just me, or does Triple Seven degenerate over time? How long does it remain good for use?

I'd say it doesn't last as long as you've had it.

You should buy a fresh bottle every year if you aren't going to shoot much.

Its New powder time its only good for around a year if that.

There is a forum of percussion handgun hunters that have decided to put desiccant packs into their T7 cans as they figure it's the humidity that weakens the powder. I've done the same as it can't hurt, and makes sense.

I have used 777 that is at least 4 years old with no discernible deterioration, so I do not think it weakens.

Humidity - breaks the powder down over time, and affects the burn rate.

While most factory containers are good, they aren't perfect and some slips through during storage. Most of us don't have a great climate controlled areas to keep powder in, and we are stuck with the result. If I keep a can in house, it seems to hold itself pretty well.

It may be overkill, but I vacuum pack loose 777 for the off season. The pellets suck up moisture like a sponge from year to year, so I won't use them.