I've just bought a Pietri Remington .44 calibre cap and ball revolver and am looking for a starting point for loads, as I have never used this type of weapon before.

How does 25 gr (weight) FFFg sound for starters?

Also, I believe that the chambers have to be sealed with grease to prevent flashovers and chain firing. What is the preferred sealant nowadays?

Dixie Gun Works recommends 22gr. FFFg for the Pietta Rem. New Model Army with a .451" RB. You can use your favorite BP lube, e.g., Thompson/Center's "Bore Butter" if it is available in the UK or a solid shortening such as "Crisco" (white only) if available locally. However, the better way is to use pre-lubed felt .44cal. wads that you seat on top of the powder charge. The RB is seated last.

Thanks Paul

I have the same pistol as you. I use 28gr (volume) FFFG and a .454 RB. The TC Bore Butter is good over the ball.

30 grains of FFFg, over powder wonder wad, 5 grains of cream of what or grits, and a 45 or454 or 457 round ball with bore grease obvr that IF you want to. the bore grease or criscoe is not needed with the ox-yoke over powder felt wads though BUT many still use it due to fact cannot be too cautiou. Most chain fires are from teh nipple end anyways but if you seat teh percussion caps on teh nipple tightly (the percussion caps are not loose on teh nipples of the cylinder) then you will not have achain fire. The cream of wheat or grits brings the round ball closer to the end of teh cylinder thus less travel; between cylinder and barrel therfore improving accuracy. I shoot a lot of BP, some of it is in revolver although I prefer 36 calibers.