Pyrodex® RS – Rifle/Shotgun Powder

Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.

Pyrodex RS powder is Hodgdon’s 2F-granulation-equivalent black powder substitute engineered for percussion muzzleloading rifles and shotguns. Introduced as the most versatile formulation in the Pyrodex line, RS delivers consistent ignition across calibers while producing less fouling and residue than traditional black powder. Muzzleloading hunters and target shooters choose RS for its balance of clean burn and broad load compatibility.

Performance at a Glance

Hodgdon manufactures Pyrodex RS with a particle size that mirrors 2F black powder, making load data transfers straightforward for shooters familiar with traditional granulations. The substitute chemistry burns at a lower flame temperature than black powder, which translates to reduced barrel fouling and easier cleanup after extended range sessions. RS ignites reliably with standard percussion caps across .45 through .58 caliber rifles and 10 through 20 gauge shotguns.

Specifications

As a DOT-regulated HazMat product, Pyrodex RS ships via ground transportation only and incurs hazardous materials handling fees. Store powder in its original container in a cool, dry location away from ignition sources. Never mix RS with any other powder, smokeless or black, and never substitute it in loads designed for smokeless propellants. Consult current load data from Hodgdon or your firearm manufacturer before charging cases. Additional gun powder options are available for shooters requiring different granulations or applications.

Real-World Use

RS excels in hunting scenarios where you need multiple shots without field-swabbing the bore. The reduced fouling characteristic allows three to five consecutive shots in most rifles before accuracy degradation, compared to one to two with straight black powder. Shotgun hunters running patched round balls or saboted slugs benefit from the same fouling reduction, and the powder meters predictably through most volumetric measures. Target shooters appreciate the consistent velocity spread across temperature ranges from 40°F to 90°F.