What loads do you folks use for black powder or Pyrodex in .45 Colt pistols? I plan on using either 200 or 250 grain lead bullets.

I fill the case to where the bullet just slightly compresses the load. Usually comes out to about 28-30 grains depending on the case.

Be aware that Hodgens 777 is a better sub than Pyrodex, far less corrosive than real black or Pyrodex.

TLee is spot on. On his last statement, I believe the new Blackhorn is even better yet than Triple7.

"fill the case to where the bullet just slightly compresses the load. "

As quoted above.

The charge is dependant on the amount of room in the case. The most important thing to remember is that no empty space be allowed inside the loaded cartrige. Seating depth, bullet length and other variatons make for a variety of BP amounts...just be sure to fill the case! If you want lower power in your loads, use a courser granulation of BP and/or fill the space with wads and/or lube. I like FFFg Goex or elephant black powder in my Blackhawk. The power of a BP FFFg load is fairly impressive, certainly not underpowered.

Good luck!

If i'm loading for CAS I use 15-20 gr(volume) Goex Cartridge or KIK 2f and the remainder of the case is filled with old case tumbling media.(ground walnut shell or corncob).For hunting loads I will use either a full case of 777 or Real BP.I dont use pyrodex as its too corrosive.I clean up using Windex with Vinegar and lube with non petroleum lube like Ballistol.BP gets compressed 1/16-1/8 inch.777 just so bullet touches the powder with little or no compresssion.

PS:I have found thru many tests the best accuracy comes with a 250 gr bullet.I use a Lyman 255 gr.in all my 45 Colts.