How to Roll Paper Cartridges (Reenacting)

Last Updated: June 2, 2021

This article will instruct you on how to roll blank paper cartridges for .58 cal. black-powder muzzleloaders. Be sure to read the entire article and view all pictures before trying to make the cartridge. And, of course, do not use black powder or firearms without first being taught and supervised by a competent individual.

Method 1

Method 1 of 6:

Making the Wooden Dowel

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This will help you align the paper correctly.

Method 2

Method 2 of 6:

Making the Paper Trapezoid

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Method 3

Method 3 of 6:

Rolling the Cartridge

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(See picture.)
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Method 4

Method 4 of 6:

Twisting the Left Edge

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Crush into the hollow left by the wooden dowel by pressing against table.
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Method 5

Method 5 of 6:

Filling with Powder

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Method 6

Method 6 of 6:

Twisting Right Edge

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This leaves a paper "tail" above the twisting point.
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And you're done! Happy shooting!

Expert Q&A

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Tips

You can use sugar or coffee grounds to simulate black powder if you wish to practice without explosives (such as for a project at school, drilling, or simply not wasting your powder, soldier!).

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Some newspapers give paper butt-ends away free of charge to non-profit organizations, so if this is used only for a non-profit reenacting organization, you should be able to use some.

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A black-powder speed-loader flask is highly recommended. To use, place your finger over the mouth of the spout, hold the flask upside-down and press the button. This will open a valve allowing the spout to fill up with black-power. Release the button, and pour the powder into a paper tube.

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Warnings

Black-powder is highly explosive! Never use any black-powder near flames or sparks! Only use with approved .58 caliber black-powder muzzleloaders . Never put anything other than black-powder into this cartridge.

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Never use a black-powder speed loader to pour directly into a musket. If there is smoldering embers in the barrel, they could set off the powder you are pouring in and ignite the entire flask in your hand.

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Things You'll Need

1/2" wooden dowel, at least 6" long
Blank newsprint or packaging paper
Black-powder

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How to Roll Paper Cartridges (Reenacting)

Steps

Making the Wooden Dowel

Making the Paper Trapezoid

Rolling the Cartridge

Twisting the Left Edge

Filling with Powder

Twisting Right Edge

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Tips

Warnings

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