Which Nipple Key Do I Need For My Percussion Rifle, Shotgun, Pistol or Revolver?

Nipples come in all different shapes and sizes depending on what kind of gun it is, who made it and when. There's generally not a one size fits all solution, though some keys can fit more nipples than others. Most reproduction nipples are either of rectangular or square form on the bearing surfaces, which means that provided you have the right key, there's not much chance of them getting stuck.

You should always use the closest fitting key to the nipple that you have, as poorly fitting keys will lead to only a small part of the key touching the nipple, and risks breaking the key or rounding the nipple, making any future extraction all the more difficult. It's also advisable to remove your nipple after each shooting session and clean and oil before next time. There's few things more frustrating than a stuck nipple at the wrong time.

Here's a handy chart to help you find the right nipple key for your percussion gun.

It may be that you need a couple of different nipples to fit all your guns, or you may be lucky and find one key that does everything you have. By far, the closest thing we stock to a universal key that will fit everything is the Pedersoli Deluxe Multi Purpose Nipple Key which you can see below.

This tool offers will fit a wide range of guns with only some exceptions. Full range of nipples and nipple keys can be viewed here.

Our nipple keys will also fit a lot of antique guns. Nipple design has changed very little in the last 200 years or so, so a tool from the modern day may well fit an original gun from the mid 19^th century! Take for example this antique Percussion Shotgun below.

Remember, if you can't find what you want on this list, feel free to give us a ring on 0113 256 9163 and we'll do our best to find what you're looking for. All nipple keys can be viewed here. To view our full range of muzzle loading accessories, click here.

All our nipple keys and other accessories can ordered online and delivered direct to your door.