I've been asked to replicate an 1880s Shropshire iron mine in the George & Charlotte Mine (Copper) for a film crew (don't ask).
I've been given some predictably sketchy production notes regarding Shropshire blasting practice which I am choosing to politely ignore.
(1) Drilling: Should I use a sledge and a set of steels or should I use a hand held Jumper?
(2) Single or multiple shotholes?
(3) Charging: I am thinking along these lines (i) Cleaning out shothole, I assume a swab stick made out of a splayed stick would be appropriate (ii) The charge - I assume black powder, possibly wrapped in waxed paper. Inserted into hole using stemming bar (iii) pierce cartridge with pricker (iv) Insert fuse (I assume, given 1880s period Bickfords or similar). (v) Add stemming (clay) (vi) Light fuse and retire.
Many Thanks
Rick Stewart
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