powder flask measurements

[smiller]

I'm just starting to learn about powder flasks.  I'd like to know about how flasks measure powder. In the recent posts about the Dixon powder flask the picture of the spout showed numbers of how much powder is thrown each time.  The smallest number was a number two.  I assume that means two drams.  Does anyone know how many grains two drams is?  Also, were any spouts made that measured by grains or were the measurements always drams?  Thank you.

[Nate McKenzie]

In the avoirdupois measuring system used for black powder- 1dram=27.34grains.

[Feltwad]

Most English flasks by Dixon ,Hawksley , Frith and other Sheffield flask makers used the dram measure it all depends for which weapon a flask was needed if it was a small pistol it may be a  be a half dram if it was a fowling piece it would have been a large flask capable of  5 to 8 drams .You did find that on the  Continental flasks  these were in both grains and drams . One drams measures 27.34 grains  has Mr McKenzie said
Feltwad

[smiller]

Thank you for the replies.  They helped me greatly to understand powder flasks.

[skillman]

If you're going to get into Flasks, You might look into getting a copy of The Powder Flask Book by Ray Riling. You can find a copy on line. Lots of information.

Steve

[smiller]

Thank you for the suggestion Skillman.  After receiving the comments here on this website it gave me the basic knowledge, so I wanted to learn more.  Just yesterday I ordered The Powder Flask Book from a seller on ebay!  So, now I'll do more reading!  Thanks.

                                                        Steve

[skillman]

You won't be sorry about this purchase!

Steve