The satisfying crack of a black powder firearm, the plume of smoke, the historical connection to a bygone era – it’s a unique experience. And at the heart of this experience lies a small, yet vital component: the percussion cap. These tiny metal cups, filled with a sensitive explosive compound, provide the ignition that brings black powder firearms to life. Finding the right ones is crucial for a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. This guide dives deep into what makes a good cap, and will showcase some of the best options available to ensure reliable ignition and optimal performance. This article will present our curated list of top-tier percussion caps, detailing their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, and will help you in your quest to find the ideal cap for your black powder shooting endeavors.
Understanding Percussion Caps
These minuscule marvels are more than just a tiny metal cup; they are the spark that ignites the powerful force within a black powder firearm. To truly appreciate their importance, it’s essential to understand their composition and function.
The core of a percussion cap is a small, cup-shaped metal casing, often made of brass or a similar alloy. Inside this casing lies a small quantity of a shock-sensitive explosive compound. In the past, fulminate of mercury was commonly used, but modern caps often utilize more stable and less corrosive alternatives. This explosive compound is extremely sensitive to impact and heat.
The magic happens when the firearm’s hammer strikes the cap. This impact crushes the explosive compound within the cap, causing it to detonate. The resulting flame and heat then travel through the nipple (or cone) and into the chamber of the firearm, igniting the black powder propellant and launching the projectile.
Variations in the World of Percussion Caps
Percussion caps aren’t one-size-fits-all. There’s a spectrum of sizes, each designed to fit a specific nipple or cone on the firearm. The most common sizes are often designated by numbers, such as number eleven (#11) and musket caps. The number eleven caps are widely used in pistols, revolvers, and smaller rifles, while the larger musket caps are often found in rifles and other larger firearms. The correct fit is absolutely critical for reliable ignition. A cap that is too loose may not ignite reliably or could even fall off. A cap that is too tight can be difficult to seat properly or potentially damage the nipple.
Beyond size, there are also variations in the construction and sensitivity of percussion caps. Some are designed for maximum sensitivity, while others prioritize durability and resistance to moisture. The choices you make will impact the reliability of your firearm.
Key Considerations When Choosing Percussion Caps
Selecting the right cap is crucial for a satisfying and safe shooting experience. Several factors should guide your decision.
Reliability
The most important aspect of a percussion cap is its ability to ignite consistently. A cap that misfires is frustrating and potentially dangerous. Look for caps known for their high reliability ratings.
Sensitivity
The ease with which a cap ignites is also important. A cap that is too insensitive may require a forceful hammer strike, while one that is too sensitive could ignite prematurely. Consider your firearm’s hammer design when choosing a cap.
Power
Some caps produce a more forceful flame than others. This can affect how well the black powder is ignited. If you notice inconsistencies in ignition, the cap’s power may be a factor.
Ease of Use
Some caps are easier to handle and seat than others. This can be a significant consideration, especially when loading multiple firearms in a match or when working in cold weather.
Fit
As mentioned earlier, the correct fit is paramount. The cap should fit snugly on the nipple without being overly difficult to seat.
Availability
Before you settle on a specific brand, make sure you can easily purchase them where you live. Black powder shooters rely on a steady supply of these critical components.
Top Percussion Caps: In-Depth Reviews
Now, let’s explore some of the top-rated percussion caps available to black powder shooters. Please note that availability can vary, so always check with your local retailers.
CCI #11 Percussion Caps
These are incredibly popular and highly regarded among black powder shooters. CCI consistently produces reliable caps.
Key Features
Consistent ignition, relatively easy seating, and a reputation for reliable performance.
Pros
Generally reliable, readily available, and offer a good balance of sensitivity and durability.
Cons
Some shooters report slight variations in size, potentially requiring a little care during seating.
Best Use Cases
Excellent for a wide range of black powder firearms, including revolvers, pistols, and rifles. Well suited for both target shooting and hunting.
Remington #11 Percussion Caps
Remington is a well-known name in the firearms industry, and their percussion caps are a solid choice.
Key Features
Designed for consistent and reliable ignition, and are typically easy to handle.
Pros
Offer a reliable level of performance. They are also widely available in most locations.
Cons
Some shooters may find they require a slightly firmer hammer strike than other brands.
Best Use Cases
A great all-around option suitable for various black powder firearms, particularly those with well-maintained nipples.
RWS #11 Percussion Caps
RWS, a German company, is renowned for its high-quality components. Their percussion caps are no exception.
Key Features
Known for their consistent ignition and high level of quality control. Often favored by target shooters.
Pros
Offer excellent reliability and clean ignition, often with minimal residue.
Cons
Can be slightly more expensive than some other options.
Best Use Cases
Excellent choice for precision shooting and situations where consistent ignition is paramount.
CCI Musket Caps
CCI’s Musket caps offer increased ignition power, well suited for larger bore rifles.
Key Features
Designed for greater ignition power, and is often used in muskets and other larger black powder rifles.
Pros
Excellent for use in larger bore firearms requiring more powerful ignition.
Cons
Only for larger bore rifles. May not work for smaller firearms
Best Use Cases
Specifically designed for muskets and larger black powder rifles where a more robust ignition is needed.
Remington Musket Caps
Remington’s musket caps also provide good performance in larger-bore black powder rifles.
Key Features
Like the CCI musket caps, Remington’s are designed for the needs of larger bore rifles.
Pros
Reliable.
Cons
Only for larger bore rifles.
Best Use Cases
For those with larger rifles, and seeking reliable ignition.
Choosing the Right Caps for Your Needs
Finding the perfect percussion cap is a personal journey that combines knowledge of your firearm, your shooting style, and the specific conditions of the range or field.
Matching the Cap to Your Firearm
The correct fit is non-negotiable. A cap that’s too small won’t ignite. One too large could get stuck. Start by determining the nipple size of your firearm. Once you know the size, you can begin experimenting with different cap brands and types. If you’re unsure, consult your firearm’s manual or seek advice from experienced black powder shooters.
Considering Your Shooting Style
Are you primarily a target shooter, or do you enjoy hunting? Your choice of cap might differ depending on your goals. For competitive shooting, reliability and consistency are paramount. In hunting, reliability is critical, especially in adverse weather conditions. Consider what’s most important to you, and select a cap accordingly.
Troubleshooting Ignition Problems
Even with the best caps, you might encounter ignition issues. If a cap fails to fire, there are several possible causes. First, ensure the cap is seated correctly. Second, check the hammer strike – is it forceful enough? Third, inspect the nipple for any damage or blockage. Sometimes, the nipple itself might need replacing.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Black powder shooting, like all firearms activities, requires a strong emphasis on safety. This is not only for your safety, but also the safety of those around you.
Safe Handling of Percussion Caps
- Always store percussion caps in a cool, dry place, away from heat, sparks, and direct sunlight. Never keep them near black powder or other flammable materials.
- Handle caps with care. Avoid dropping them, as they are sensitive to impact.
- Always wear safety glasses when shooting black powder firearms.
- Always point the firearm in a safe direction, and keep the muzzle pointed down range.
General Black Powder Safety
- Handle black powder with caution. Be aware of the potential for accidental ignition.
- Follow all loading procedures carefully.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and the presence of other shooters.
- Know your range rules and adhere to them.
- Never load a firearm indoors unless in a proper shooting area.
Conclusion
The realm of percussion caps is vast, but the correct selection is crucial for safe and enjoyable black powder shooting. From the reliable CCI to the quality of RWS, the range is available to suit your needs. By understanding the factors that influence cap performance, choosing the right size, and adopting safe handling practices, you can ensure a satisfying and safe shooting experience. Remember to always test and experiment to find the caps that work best for your specific firearms and shooting preferences. The world of black powder shooting is alive and well, and the best percussion caps are crucial to continuing its legacy. If you have further questions or specific experiences with these or other percussion caps, please share them in the comments below!
