[Jeff Higgins]

The loading process is the same as it is for any modern revolver. "Black powder" does not always mean "muzzle loader". There was a brief period in history (~1860 to ~ 1900) when black powder was loaded in self contained metallic cartridges, just as smokeless is today. The .45 Colt was one such cartridge. Others included the .45-70 Government (which fought alongside the .45 Colt as standard issue at the Little Bighorn). These two successfully made the transition to smokeless and, today, can be loaded (with smokeless) to performance levels never even imagined back in the day.

Reloading the cartridges differs only slightly from smokeless reloading. The chief difference is the use of about a 30" long "drop tube" to pour the powder into the case. This long drop allows the powder to settle better, so a full charge will actually fit in the case. As it is, the full 40 grain charge just about fills the case flush with its mouth. The powder is then heavily compressed with a compression die before the bullet is seated. Other than that, it's just like loading smokeless.

Cleanup is another story... The cases themselves must be cleaned immediately. This first thing to do is to neutralize the corrosive affect of the fouling left in them. I do this by popping the primers out and then soaking the cases in straight white vinegar while I attend to cleaning the gun itself. It gets fully disassembled and all parts cleaned in hot water, dried, oiled, and reassembled. By the time I'm done with that, the cases are ready to be rinsed in hot water. When dry, they are tumbled overnight.

A bit more work than smokeless, so I don't shoot black as much, but it sure is fun when I do.