I know this question has probably been addressed before, but my search of this forum did not really come up with anything exactly. I am a complete rookie at this particular facet of shooting.
Have a Cabelas Pietta .44 New Model Army. Hornady .454 balls. Some wonder wads and wonder seals for ends of cylinder. Pyrodex P (fffg equivalent) loose powder. Ready to go bang! There are 2 books with the revolver - Pietta's and Cabelas. Pietta says 12-15 gr. fffg is the minimum to maximum range. .454 balls. OK. ; The Cabelas book says .451 balls, with 35 gr. fffg black, but only 28 gr. Pyrodex P. OK. What gives?? Using black powder, we have a recommendation which is over TWICE what the factory says.
I did check on old Lyman Pistol and Revolver Handbook, and it's 44 loads are for the 1860 Colt, and they would agree about dead-on with Cabelas book.
I don't have a clue where to start - and what to consider maximum. Any suggestions based on personal knowledge? I know, no guarantees, shoot at my own risk, etc.
Thanks folks.