Description
You’re at the range, carefully pouring black powder from your horn into your Traditions Kentucky Pistol. It’s a ritual, but it’s also a bit of a hassle—spills happen, consistency can vary. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a simple, dedicated tool to make every charge precise and repeatable? That’s the exact problem the Traditions Revolver Powder Measure Revolver/Small Bore Muzz solves. It’s a classic, budget-friendly brass powder measure designed for the specific volume needs of small-bore muzzleloading pistols and rifles. For just $10.24, it delivers the measured consistency that can tighten your groups and simplify your loading process.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a complex, adjustable measure. It’s a fixed-volume tool, which is actually its greatest strength for the budget-conscious shooter. You get a known, repeatable charge every single time. No guessing, no fiddling with knobs that can drift. It’s built from solid brass, which resists sparking and looks the part next to your traditional firearm. The simple design means it’s drop-in ready right out of the package; just fill and pour. It’s the definition of a no-fuss accessory that does one job very well.
Key Features & Practical Use
The Traditions measure is all about practical application. Its fixed cavity is sized for the common powder charges used in small-bore muzzleloaders like .31, .36, and .44 caliber revolvers and pistols. Think models like the Pietta 1851 Navy or the Traditions Trapper Pistol. It’s also spot-on for smaller rifle calibers like .32 and .36. This specificity is a trade-off, but a smart one—it keeps the cost down and the operation foolproof. You won’t be using this for a .50 caliber Hawken, and that’s okay. For its intended role, it’s perfect.
Construction is straightforward and durable. The brass body won’t corrode easily from powder residues, and the simple plunger mechanism is easy to operate even with gloves on. The whole unit is compact, easily fitting in a shooting bag or pouch. Look, for a tool that costs about the same as a box of percussion caps, the value is undeniable. It eliminates the need for a separate, more expensive adjustable measure if your shooting is focused on these smaller calibers. The measure itself is roughly 4 inches in length and weighs only a couple of ounces, making it a negligible addition to your kit.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Solid Brass |
| Type | Fixed Volume Powder Measure |
| Primary Use | Small-Bore Muzzleloading Pistols/Revolvers |
| Compatible Calibers | .31, .36, .44 (Pistol); .32, .36 (Rifle) |
| Approx. Length | 4 inches |
| Operation | Simple Plunger/Automatic Return |
Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For
Pros: The price is the biggest win—it’s hard to find a dedicated shooting tool for this little. The brass build is traditional, safe, and durable. The fixed volume guarantees charge consistency, which can improve accuracy. Its simplicity means there’s nothing to break or adjust incorrectly. It’s a classic design that has worked for generations.
Cons: The fixed volume is also its main limitation. It’s not versatile; if you shoot multiple calibers requiring vastly different charges, you’ll need separate measures. It’s designed for black powder and black powder substitutes only—never for smokeless powder. The mechanism, while reliable, isn’t as refined as higher-end adjustable measures.
This measure is for the muzzleloader who wants to step up from dipping directly from a horn or flask but doesn’t want the complexity or cost of an adjustable tool. It’s ideal for the shooter dedicated to small-bore revolvers like the 1858 Remington or single-shot pistols. It’s also a fantastic, affordable entry point for new traditional shooters building their first kit. This product is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the actual powder volume this measure holds?
A: While Traditions doesn’t publish the exact grain weight, fixed measures like this are typically designed to throw a common charge for the caliber, such as 15-25 grains for a .36 caliber revolver. The volume is consistent, but the weight in grains will depend on the type and granulation of black powder or substitute you use.
Q: Can I use this with pyrodex or other black powder substitutes?
A: Yes, absolutely. It is designed to be used with black powder and volumetric-equivalent substitutes like Pyrodex P or Triple Seven. Always consult your firearm’s manual and load data for specific charge recommendations.
Q: Is this measure suitable for loading rifles as well?
A: It can be, but specifically for small-bore traditional rifles in .32 or .36 caliber where the powder charges are similar to pistol volumes. It is not intended for larger rifle calibers like .45 or .50, which require significantly more powder.
If you’re building out a traditional shooting kit and need a reliable, period-appropriate way to measure your powder, the Traditions Revolver Powder Measure represents a solid value. It’s a simple tool that performs its single task with dependable consistency.
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