Blackhorn 209 Powder Load Data: Safe & Accurate Loads for Modern Muzzleloaders
Blackhorn 209 Powder Load Data: Safe & Accurate Loads for Modern Muzzleloaders
If you’re looking for reliable Blackhorn 209 powder load data, you’re likely ready to dial in your muzzleloader for hunting or target shooting — and you’re smart to look for verified info.
This guide covers safe starting loads, bullet pairings, and performance tips for Blackhorn 209, the clean-burning black powder substitute trusted by experienced shooters across North America.
📈 Why Blackhorn 209 Load Data Matters
Unlike traditional black powder or pelletized substitutes, Blackhorn 209 is a volumetric-only loose powder, designed for use in modern inline muzzleloaders. To get the best results — and avoid unsafe pressures — you need accurate load data that matches your bullet weight and firearm type.
⚠️ Important Usage Notes
Before jumping into numbers, keep these safety rules in mind:
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✅ Measure by volume, not weight
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✅ Use only 209 Magnum primers
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✅ Compatible with inline muzzleloaders only
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❌ Not for sidelocks, flintlocks, or open-breech guns
Manufacturer-recommended charge range:
80 to 120 grains by volume
🔢 Blackhorn 209 Load Data Chart (Volume-Based)
Here’s a load reference chart for popular bullet weights and calibres. Always confirm with your firearm manufacturer.
| Calibre | Bullet Weight | BH209 Charge (volumetric) | Muzzle Velocity (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .50 | 250 gr Sabot | 100 gr | ~1,850 fps | Great for whitetail hunting |
| .50 | 300 gr Sabot | 110 gr | ~1,900 fps | Good balance of power & recoil |
| .50 | 350 gr Sabot | 120 gr (max) | ~2,000 fps | Maximum hunting load |
| .45 | 275 gr PowerBelt | 100 gr | ~2,050 fps | Fast, flat-shooting combo |
| .50 | 290 gr Barnes T-EZ | 110 gr | ~1,950 fps | Excellent all-around performance |
⚠️ Do not exceed 120 grains by volume — this is the maximum safe load per Western Powders and Hodgdon.
💬 Shooter Tip:
“I run 110 grains with a 300 gr Barnes bullet, and I get 1.5” groups at 100 yards. No swabbing between shots. Just solid performance every time.”
– Brent M., Manitoba
🧪 Ballistic Performance & Load Testing
Blackhorn 209 is known for:
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Low Standard Deviation (SD): Consistent velocity = consistent accuracy
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Minimal Fouling: Load and shoot multiple rounds without swabbing
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Temperature Resistance: Reliable ignition even in sub-zero Canadian winters
Compared to Pyrodex or Triple Seven, Blackhorn 209 maintains higher muzzle velocity and flatter trajectory for the same volume — without increasing pressure dangerously.
🧼 Load Data + Cleanup = Better Shooting
Because BH209 doesn’t foul your barrel as quickly as traditional black powder:
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You can shoot 10–15 rounds before noticing a change in group size
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No need to swab after every shot — ideal for hunting follow-ups
However, you must clean your barrel with a solvent-based cleaner, not just hot water. Blackhorn residue is carbon-based, not sulfur-based.
📦 Where to Buy Blackhorn 209 + Load Tools in Canada
Looking to test some loads or prepare for deer season? We offer:
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✅ Original Blackhorn 209 from Hodgdon
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✅ Volume powder measurers and funnels
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✅ Solvent cleaners designed for BH209
❓ FAQ – Blackhorn 209 Powder Load Data
1. Can I go beyond 120 grains by volume?
No. 120 grains is the manufacturer’s absolute maximum. Exceeding it can be unsafe.
2. Can I use a digital scale to measure Blackhorn 209?
No. Always measure by volume, not by weight.
3. Is BH209 safe for all muzzleloaders?
No. Only modern inline muzzleloaders with sealed breech systems.
4. What’s the best hunting load?
A typical whitetail load is 100–110 grains paired with a 250–300 grain bullet.
