Black powder is highly fouling and it may become difficult to load a ball after a few shots. When your rifle becomes hard to load, swab the bore a few times with a lubricated patch or bore cleaner.

Black powder is kept dry in a powder horn. The powder is poured into a measurer, giving the exact amount needed. Opp uses 70 grains of powder for target practice and 90-100 grains for hunting.

Like the old guys, Gibbs loads by pouring black powder down the barrel, followed by patch and ball, and tamping it tight with a ramrod. He shoots 60 grains of powder and a .490 round ball.