Paul;
Was that 94 grains of PB actually weighed or was this a 94 grain volume measure. PB is considerably less dense for a given volume than Black & Pyrodex is normally measured by volume, not weight. A 94 grain black powder volume measure would be around 54-55 grains of PB which is still pushing a triple load @ 18 grains. Unfortunately smokeless powders are not nearly so forgiving of overloads as is Black.
As you stated Brass shell are not "Needed" to enjoy Damascus barreled guns, but they are an option if desired. All modern day brass shells that I am aware of fit standard chambers, they just require oversize wads except for those turned cases made to use standard wads.
Biggest problem with brass hulls & smokeless is that except for those using a 209 primer many will not give good ignition with smokeless. Years ago I loaded brass shells with an Italian imported powder named Nike, with good results, acquired it through Alcan. A fast powder such as Red Dot will normally work well also. Just be certain the wads are a tight fit in the case & that you get a good seal on the top wad.
