How to Build a Black Powder Reload Box

Traditional black-powder, muzzle-loader shooting is a popular recreational shooting sport. Many black-powder shootists carry a reloading or shooting box that is designed to be easily portable and keep the the variety of equipment that is necessary for black-powder shooting organized. Shooting boxes are usually constructed of wood, such as pine or hardwood, and will often feature a handle for carrying. One of the most important factors of a black-powder shooting box is that it can be easily opened for reloading and easily closed again for safety when shooting.

Things You'll Need

  • Hardwood or pine board, 96-inch by 10-inch, 7/16 inches thick
  • Dowel, 3/4-inch by 18-inch
  • Carriage bolts, 1/4-inch
  • Treated decking screws, 2-inch
  • Brass strap hinges, 3/4-inch
  • Paint or stain
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the boards for the bottom of the box. The recommended size requires three, 10-inch by 18-inch boards for the two long sides and the underside of the box. Cut two 9 1/2-inch by 10-inch boards for the ends.

    • 2

      Cut two, 2-inch by 9-inch boards to serve as the handle sides.

    • 3

      Cut a 12-inch by 18-inch board for the lid.

    • 4

      Fasten the sides and the bottom of the box together using the galvanized decking screws. Use two screws to attach the side panels to each other and three screws to attach each panel to the underside of the box.

    • 5

      Drill a 1/4-inch hole through the center of the handle side, 1 inch from the end. Drill an identical hole in center of the box end, 3 inches below the top. Fasten the handle sides in place using a 1/4-inch carriage bolt with the nut on the interior of the box. Be careful not to tighten the bolt all the way so that the handle will be able to easily pivot from side to side.

    • 6

      Insert the dowel between the ends of the handle sides and ensure both handle sides are aligned correctly. Secure the dowel in place by putting a decking screw through the outside of each of the handle sides and into the dowel.

    • 7

      Place the lid on the shooter's box and align it so that the edges are square with the sides of the box. Fasten it in place with two, 3/4-inch strap hinges. Fasten the hinges to the side of the box and to the edge of the top piece, using the decking screws.

    • 8

      Finish your shooting box with paint or stain, then varnish.