Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets

Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets deliver a pre-measured, 50-grain equivalent charge for .50 caliber muzzleloading rifles, available in both 24 count and 100 count packs so you can match pack size to how often you shoot. Each pellet replaces a volumetric powder measure with a simple drop-in charge, cutting load time at the bench or in the field.

What Are Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets?

Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets are compressed, pre-formed pellets of Pyrodex black powder substitute, sized for .50 caliber muzzleloading rifles. Instead of pouring loose Pyrodex RS or Select through a powder measure, a shooter simply drops one or two pellets down the bore for a fast, repeatable charge from shot to shot.

Pyrodex 50 Grain Pellets vs. Loose Powder

Pyrodex 50 grain pellets are manufactured to a consistent compressed density, so the charge delivered downrange does not vary the way a hand-measured scoop of loose powder can. Most .50 caliber muzzleloader shooters load two pellets for a 100-grain equivalent hunting charge, though a single pellet works for lighter target and practice loads.

Choosing Between 24 Count and 100 Count Packs

A 24 count pack of Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets suits a shooter sighting in before a single hunting season, while a Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets 100 count pack is the better value for anyone shooting matches, working up a load, or stocking up for several seasons at once. Both pack sizes ship with the same hazmat handling required for any black powder substitute.

Why Muzzleloader Shooters Buy Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Online

Most shooters buy Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 cal online because local sporting goods counters rarely stock every pack size, and hazmat shipping rules make it more practical to order pellets through a dedicated black powder retailer than to drive between stores. Ordering online also means checking current stock of black powder pellets for muzzleloaders before a hunting trip rather than hoping a shelf is full.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets

How many pellets should I load in a .50 caliber muzzleloader?

Most .50 caliber muzzleloader hunting loads use two Pyrodex 50 grain pellets for a 100-grain equivalent charge, which matches the velocity and energy most manufacturers recommend for big game. Always check your specific rifle’s owner’s manual, since some barrels are rated for a maximum of two pellets and no more.

What is the difference between the 24 count and 100 count packs?

The only difference between packs is quantity: a Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets 100 count pack costs less per pellet than the 24 count pack, making it the better choice for anyone shooting more than a box or two each season. The pellets themselves are identical between pack sizes.

Do Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets still need a primer?

Yes, black powder pellets for muzzleloaders still require a primer or percussion cap to ignite the charge, whether you shoot a 209 primer inline action or a traditional percussion sidelock. The pellet replaces only the measured powder charge, not the ignition source.

Can I mix Pyrodex 50 grain pellets with loose Pyrodex powder?

Hodgdon does not recommend mixing pellets with loose powder in the same charge, since the combined density and burn characteristics have not been tested to the same pressure standards. Use pellets alone or loose powder alone, following the load data published for each.

Where can I buy Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 cal online?

You can buy Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 cal online through US Reloading Powder, which stocks both the 24 count and Hodgdon Pyrodex 50 Cal Pellets 100 count packs with proper hazmat shipping for black powder substitutes. Ordering online saves a trip to a shop that may not carry your preferred pack size.