Percussion Caps No. 11

🧨 Percussion Caps No. 11 – Complete Guide

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✅ What Are Percussion Caps?

Percussion caps are small, cylindrical metal cups filled with a shock-sensitive explosive compound (usually based on fulminate of mercury, lead styphnate, or modern equivalents). When struck by a hammer or firing pin, the compound ignites, sending a flame through a nipple (or flash hole) to ignite the main powder charge in a black powder firearm.

Percussion caps are used in:

• Muzzleloaders (rifles, pistols)

• Cap-and-ball revolvers

• Some black powder shotguns

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🔢 Percussion Cap No. 11 – Specifications:

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🔧 Typical Firearms Using No. 11 Caps:

• .44/.36 caliber black powder revolvers (Colt and Remington replicas)

• .50/.54 caliber muzzleloading rifles

• Traditions, CVA, and Thompson Center caplock rifles

• Some inline muzzleloaders (with modified nipples)

• Replica pistols and rifles using standard percussion ignition systems

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🔄 No. 10 vs. No. 11 – What’s the Difference?

📝 Always test a few caps with your specific firearm. Some brands label No. 10 and No. 11 differently, and actual fit may vary.

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⚙️ Function and Ignition Process:

1. Cap is placed on the nipple of a black powder firearm.

2. Hammer strikes the cap, crushing the compound inside.

3. The cap detonates, sending a flame through the nipple’s channel.

4. The flame ignites the main charge of black powder inside the barrel.

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✅ Advantages of No. 11 Percussion Caps:

• Widespread compatibility: Used in most percussion muzzleloaders

• Moderate size: Easier to handle than smaller caps

• Reliable ignition: Modern caps offer consistent performance

• Less corrosion: Most are non-mercuric and non-corrosive

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⚠️ Considerations and Safety Tips:

• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from static or spark sources.

• Handling: Use capper tools for easier and safer loading.

• Misfires: Ensure caps are seated fully and nipples are clean.

• Replacement Nipples: Worn or oversized nipples can cause loose fit or misfires.

• Use Only On Compatible Firearms: Not for modern smokeless powder guns.

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🔍 Common Brands and Product Notes:

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📦 No. 11 Magnum Percussion Caps:

Some brands (like CCI No. 11M) offer “Magnum” caps, which have:

• Hotter flame

• Better ignition for large powder charges or coarser granulated powders

• Slightly more brisance (impact shock), which can help in cold or damp conditions

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🔄 Troubleshooting Fit and Function:

• Cap too loose?

  • Lightly pinch the cap to tighten

  • Use aftermarket nipples with slightly smaller diameters

  • Switch to a brand with a tighter fit (e.g., RWS)

• Cap too tight?

  • Carefully seat with a capper

  • Avoid forcing – it can deform or detonate prematurely

  • Consider switching to No. 10 or a different nipple

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🔥 In Summary – Why Use No. 11 Caps?

Percussion Cap No. 11 is:

• The most commonly used cap size for black powder rifles and revolvers

• Available from all major manufacturers

• A versatile, reliable, and well-balanced choice for most black powder shooters