Making accurate loads ~ Understanding powders, Part I

Introduction to Powders in Cartridges

In this section, the speaker introduces the topic of powders used in cartridges and highlights their importance. The lack of education on powders is mentioned, but it is noted that loading books can provide guidance.

Understanding the Role of Powders

• Powders are often misunderstood components in firearms.

• Limited education is available on powders unless one conducts personal research.

• Loading books can be a helpful resource for selecting powders for specific cartridges and bullet weights.

Wide Range of Powder Selection

This section discusses the wide variety of powders available today compared to 30 years ago. The speaker emphasizes that there is a powder suitable for every need, regardless of bullet weight or cartridge case capacity.

Abundance of Powder Options

• Currently, there are significantly more powder options than 30 years ago.

• A vast selection of powders caters to various needs, ranging from small pistol cartridges to large calibers like the 50 BMG.

• Regardless of bullet weight or cartridge case capacity, there are numerous powders that can fulfill the requirements.

Increase in Powder Selection due to Hand Loading Popularity

This section explains how hand loading's growing popularity has led to increased competitiveness and a wider range of powder options. It also contrasts the historical manufacturer-driven market with today's consumer-driven market.

Influence of Hand Loading Popularity

• Hand loading has become increasingly popular over time.

• Consumer demand for faster velocities and more efficient cartridges has driven manufacturers to introduce new powders.

• The availability and selection of powders have expanded due to increased competition and consumer preferences.

Historical Perspective on Powder Manufacturing

This section provides a historical perspective on powder manufacturing, highlighting the shift from manufacturers using average burning rate powders to hand loaders selecting specific powders for bullet weights, bore diameters, and cartridge case capacities.

Evolution of Powder Manufacturing

• In the past, manufacturers primarily used powders that covered a broad range of bullet weights and calibers.

• Manufacturers aimed for economic efficiency by using one bulk powder for multiple cartridges.

• Hand loaders now have the freedom to select powders based on specific requirements such as bullet weight, bore diameter, and cartridge case capacity.

Desire for Faster Velocities and Chronograph Availability

This section discusses how hand loaders desire faster velocities and more accurate measurements through the use of chronographs. It highlights the increased accessibility and affordability of chronographs compared to previous decades.

Demand for Faster Velocities and Chronographs

• Hand loaders seek faster velocities and more efficient cartridges.

• The availability of affordable chronographs has increased over time.

• In the past, purchasing an old chronograph required a significant investment.

• Early chronographs involved shooting through physical screens that needed replacement after each shot.

Conclusion

The video concludes with a mention of the complexity involved in setting up early chronographs.

Complexity of Early Chronographs

• Early chronographs were complicated to set up.

• Shooting through physical screens required replacing them after every shot.

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The importance of having a loading manual and understanding different burning rates and powders.

Understanding Burning Rates and Powders

• There are over 160 different powders available, each with their own burning rate measured from 1 to about 67.

• However, for most cartridges, there are only about 55 usable burning rates.

• It is crucial to have a loading manual when reloading ammunition.

• Loading manuals can be obtained for free from powder manufacturers or downloaded as PDF files online.

• Having a loading book on the bench allows easy reference and keeps track of specific load data.

• Different loading manuals may organize powders by velocity, making it convenient to select powders for desired purposes.

• It is important to note that powders with similar burning rates cannot be swapped interchangeably due to variations in characteristics under firing conditions.

• Knowing the burning rate numbers can help in selecting alternative powders if a specific one is not available at the store.

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The importance of understanding that each powder has its own unique characteristics and cannot be interchanged solely based on burning rate numbers.

Characteristics of Powders

• Each powder has its own peculiarities and must be worked up individually when developing loads.

• Swapping one powder's data with another based solely on similar burning rate numbers is not recommended.

• Powder volume and charge weight will vary between different powders even if they have the same burning rate number.

• Despite these variations, knowing the numbers associated with different powders can still be useful when searching for alternatives within a specific range of burning rates.

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The usefulness of knowing the numbers associated with different powders when searching for alternatives within a specific range.

Finding Alternatives

• If a specific powder is not available, knowing the burning rate numbers can help in selecting alternative powders.

• By referring to the loading manual, powders within a certain range of burning rates can be chosen as substitutes.

• Manufacturers only list a small selection of the varied powders available for different cartridges.

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Understanding Powder Selection

In this section, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not getting fixated on a single powder option. They explain that there are numerous powders available for different bullet weights and cartridges, each with its own unique characteristics.

Different Burning Rates and Velocity Range

• Powders can have various burning rates and can be used with a wide range of bullet weights in a cartridge.

• The difference in velocity between the fastest and slowest burning powders is usually around 200 to 250 feet per second.

• A change of 100 feet per second translates to approximately 20 to 21 yards of actual performance, while a change of 200 feet per second translates to less than 45 yards.

Importance of Open-mindedness

• It is essential to be open-minded when selecting powders and not solely rely on published data or choose the fastest velocity option.

• Other powders may offer more efficient, accurate, economical, and less recoil options with only a slight difference in velocity (around 40 or 50 feet per second).

Exploring Different Types of Powders

This section focuses on the different types of powders available for shotguns, pistols, and rifle loads. The speaker explains that powders come in flake, extruded, and ball/spherical forms. They also discuss how original powders were primarily developed for military use but have expanded over time.

Flake Powders

• Flake powders have flattened flakes that are uniform in size.

• Red dot powder is an example of a flake powder commonly used for shotgun shells and pistol loads.

Ball/Spherical Powders

• Ball/spherical powders are small granules shaped like balls.

• Unique powder is popular for .45 auto cartridges and light reduced lead bullet loads in rifle cartridges.

Powder Characteristics and Burning Rate Control

• Powders can have different characteristics, such as coatings or granule shape, to control their burning rate.

• Manufacturers employ various techniques to ensure consistent burning rates.

Simplifying Powder Selection

The speaker suggests that the average person can simplify powder selection by having one powder for most shotgun and pistol uses and another for rifle uses. They also mention that certain powders may work better with specific loads, even if they have the same burning rate.

Simplified Powder Selection

• For shotguns and pistols, possessing one versatile powder (e.g., 48.95 or 40.64) can cover a wide range of loads.

• For rifles, having a unique powder on hand can be sufficient for most loads.

• However, there are numerous powders available that offer more options for velocity and accuracy.

Load-Specific Preferences

• Certain powders may work better with specific loads due to unknown factors.

• While it is generally recommended to use slower-burning powders with larger bullet sizes, individual preferences may vary.

These notes provide an overview of the key points discussed in the transcript regarding powder selection.

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In this section, the speaker discusses the usefulness of accurate number seven for higher power loads.

Accurate Number Seven for Higher Power Loads

• Accurate number seven is very useful for higher power loads.

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The speaker talks about certain requirements for powders and their interest in volume shooting.

Requirements for Powders and Volume Shooting

• Certain powders have specific requirements.

• The speaker is more interested in volume shooting.

• Their Mini 14 has military-grade accuracy of 2.5 M.O.A. at best.

• Uniformity is achievable with powders like CFE 223 for the .223 cartridge.

• It's important to use powders that provide uniform drops and don't create issues when filling the case.

• Ball powders can be inaccurate on hot days or in warm chambers, while extruded powders are more friendly and consistent.

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The speaker emphasizes the importance of speed of measurement and discusses Olin's contribution during World War II.

Importance of Speed of Measurement and Olin's Contribution

• Speed of measurement is crucial, especially during World War II when ball powders were developed by Olin to allow rapid loading at fast production speeds without variations.

• Ball powders are not recommended for top velocity levels on hot days as they can become unpredictable, but extruded powders are more reliable.

• Variations in powder texture (clunking or clacking) don't significantly affect accuracy on paper targets.

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The speaker presents a test involving different loads of reload of 15 powder and discusses the impact on target groups.

Test with Reload of 15 Powder

• The speaker conducted a test using reload of 15 powder with various load increments.

• Despite a broad range of powder weights, the impact zone on the target remained consistent within sub MOA (0.915).

• Standard primers and magnum primers both worked well with different charge weights.

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The speaker analyzes composite groups from the test, comparing standard primers and magnum primers.

Analysis of Composite Groups

• Composite groups were formed using a range of powder weights for both standard and magnum primers.

• Both types of primers produced tight groupings, with only minor variations in placement on the paper targets.

• There is no need to be overly fussy or trickle loads when achieving sub MOA accuracy with a range of powder weights.

The Popularity of Hand Loading and its Impact on Powder Selection

This section discusses the increasing popularity of hand loading over the years and how it has influenced the availability and selection of powders in the market.

Hand Loading and Increased Powder Selection

• Hand loading has become increasingly popular in the last 35 years, with a significant rise in popularity in the past eight to ten years. This trend has led to more variety and selection of powders available.

• Previously, powders were primarily manufactured for specific uses by manufacturers. They used average burning rate powders that could cover a broad range of bullet weights and cartridge calibers.

• The hand loader now has the ability to choose specific burning rates for different bullets, bore diameters, and cartridge case capacities that manufacturers did not prioritize for commercial loading.

• The desire for faster velocities and more efficient cartridges has driven hand loaders to seek out powders that correspond with true velocities measured on a chronograph.

Evolution of Powders in the Market

This section explores how the history of powders shifted from being primarily a manufacturer's market to one driven by consumer demand, leading to increased competitiveness and variety.

Manufacturer-Centric Market to Consumer Demand

• Before the 1960s, powder production was mainly focused on meeting manufacturer needs for their own cartridges.

• Manufacturers used powders with average burning rates that could be applied across multiple cartridges, reducing setup time and component storage.

• As burning rates became more specific, hand loaders started selecting powders based on bullet weight, bore diameter, and cartridge case capacity.

• The desire for faster velocities led to advancements in chronograph technology. In earlier times (1950s-60s), chronographs involved shooting through physical screens that needed replacement after each shot.

• With the availability of affordable chronographs and increased consumer education on true velocities, manufacturers responded by providing a wider variety of powders.

The Abundance of Powders and Burning Rates

This section highlights the vast selection of powders available in the market and the different burning rates associated with them.

Variety of Powders and Burning Rates

• Currently, there are approximately 160 different powders available, each catering to specific needs.

• Burning rates for these powders range from 1 to about 67 (excluding BMG), with multiple powders falling within each burning rate category.

• However, for most cartridges, there are only around 55 usable burning rates, as some burning rates have similar performance characteristics.

• It is essential to have a loading manual when selecting powders. Loading manuals provide valuable data on powder selection and load development.

• Loading manuals can be obtained from powder manufacturers or downloaded as PDF files online.

Importance of Having a Loading Manual

This section emphasizes the significance of having a loading manual for safe and accurate hand loading practices.

The Necessity of a Loading Manual

• A loading manual is an essential tool for hand loaders. It provides crucial information on powder selection, load data, and safety guidelines.

• Every hand loader should have at least one loading manual on their bench. Free loading manuals can be obtained from powder manufacturers or downloaded as PDF files online.

• Loading manuals help ensure proper load development and prevent accidents caused by incorrect powder choices or improper reloading techniques.

Avoiding Limitations in Powder Selection

This section addresses common misconceptions about limited powder options and encourages hand loaders to explore different powders beyond their initial preferences.

Exploring Different Powders

• Hand loaders often get stuck in their preferences and overlook the potential of other powders.

• It is important to note that certain powders, such as Green Dot and Red Dot, have similar burning rates to Bullseye and can be used interchangeably for specific purposes.

• Loading manuals provide comprehensive data on various powders, allowing hand loaders to explore different options based on velocity requirements and load preferences.

• With the wide range of powders available, hand loaders have numerous choices to suit their specific needs.

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Introduction to Powders for Reloading Ammunition

In this section, the speaker introduces different types of powders used for reloading ammunition and explains their characteristics and uses.

Types of Powders

• Powders can be categorized into flake powders, extruded powders, and ball/spherical powders.

• Original powders were primarily made for military use but also used by commercial cartridge manufacturers.

• It is recommended for the average person to have one powder for shotgun and pistol uses, and another powder for rifle uses.

• There are many more powders available that offer the average shooter more options for velocity and accuracy.

Characteristics of Powders

• Certain powders work better with certain loads, although the exact reasons are unknown.

• Different powders have different shapes and sizes. Some have identifying flakes or holes in the middle to control burning rate.

• Accurate number two is a fine granule ball powder suitable for target loads in handguns.

• Hodgdon HS6 is a popular powder for higher intensity pistol cartridges.

• Winchester 231 is a widely used pistol powder developed by Winchester Olin.

• IMR 4227 is popular among lead bullet shooters, especially with lower velocity rifle loads.

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Popular Rifle Powders

This section discusses popular rifle powders and their characteristics.

Hodgden 4198

• Originally IMR 4198, a fast-burning rifle powder.

• Suitable for the .222 Remington and the .458 Winchester Magnum due to its fast burning rate.

H322

• Similar burning rate to Hodgden 4198.

• Popular among bench rest shooters for the .220 and .222 Remington cartridges.

• Easy to measure and doesn't hang up in a powder measure.

Bench Mark

• Extruded powder made by Hodgden, similar in shape to ball powders.

• Gains popularity among accuracy-minded shooters as it combines advantages of extruded powders with ball powders.

• Quick-burning powder suitable for various cartridges.

Winchester 748 and Hodgden CFE 223

• Winchester 748 is a medium-burning rate powder, similar to Hodgden CFE 223 (copper filing erasers).

• Copper in the bore becomes brittle, allowing it to flake off before building up.

• Not interchangeable, but both popular among accuracy shooters.

Loading Density and Compressed Charges

• Some powders like Winchester 748 tend to cause overfilling before reaching maximum velocity potential.

• Avoid using compressed charges if possible as they require special devices like funnels with long drop tubes for proper stacking of powder in cartridge cases.

IMR 4064

• One of the most popular powders ever developed.

• Improved in recent years for better performance and ease of use in powder measures.

• Highly accurate in .30-'06 with 150 and 165 grain bullets, as well as the .22-'250.

Different Powders with Similar Numbers

This section highlights the importance of understanding that powders with similar numbers are not necessarily the same.

IMR 4320 and Reloader Number 15

• IMR 4320 and Reloader Number 15 have very similar burning characteristics.

• Both perform superbly in the .257 Roberts and .22-'250.

H380

• Named by Bruce Hodgden due to its use of 38 grains of powder in a .22-'250 with a 55 grain bullet for super accuracy.

• Results may vary for different loads.

H414

• A slower-burning ball powder.

• Easy to meter and popular in the .222 Remington and high-performance loads in the .30-'06.

Unique Powder: Alliant Power Pro Varmint

This section introduces Alliant Power Pro Varmint, a powder combining advantages of single base and double base powders.

Alliant Power Pro Varmint

• Combines advantages of single base and double base powders.

• Recoil may be higher, but further testing is needed to determine its performance in various loads.

IMR 4350 - The High Performance Cartridge Powder

This section discusses IMR 4350, a moderately slow-burning powder known for its high performance in cartridges.

IMR 4350

• Moderately slow-burning powder.

• Previously one of the slowest burning powders until IMR 4031 was introduced.

• Contributed to high-performance cartridges like the .270 Winchester and .30-'06.

The Power of 4831 Powder

The speaker discusses the effectiveness of 4831 powder compared to other powders.

Benefits of 4831 Powder

• 4831 powder is claimed to outperform other powders in terms of its effectiveness.

Achieving Accuracy with Balanced Beam or Digital Scale

The speaker explains how to achieve accuracy when using a balanced beam or digital scale.

Steps for Accuracy

• Whether using a balanced beam or digital scale, both methods are equally accurate.

• After testing different charge weights at the range, select the most accurate load based on suitable increments for the cartridge capacity.

• Once the desired volume is determined, load directly from the measure, ensuring consistency by trickling up if necessary.

Using Incremental Loads and Trickler

The speaker discusses the use of incremental loads and a trickler for precise reloading.

Loading Process

• Assigning incremental loads requires careful measurement to ensure accuracy. Use a trickler to add small amounts of powder until reaching the desired weight.

• While an automated trickler can be used, it is not necessary as this manual method achieves the same results at a lower cost.

Ball Powders in Automated Systems

The speaker explains the usefulness of ball powders in automated reloading systems.

Ball Powders in Automated Systems

• Ball powders are extremely useful in automated systems such as load masters for cartridges like .223, 9mm, and .44 Magnum.

• These powders dispense uniformly and compactly, making them ideal for high-volume shooting.

Choosing the Right Powder for Accuracy

The speaker discusses the importance of selecting the right powder for accuracy.

Powder Selection

• For volume shooting, powders like CFE 223 are recommended as they provide uniform drops without overfilling the case.

• When seeking overall accuracy and consistency, powders like Reload or 15, IMR 4064, and IMR 4895 are preferred over ball powders.

Rapid Loading with Ball Powders

The speaker explains the advantages of using ball powders for rapid loading.

Advantages of Ball Powders

• Ball powders were developed by Olin during World War II to enable fast production speeds without sacrificing consistency.

• They are still useful today when speed of measurement is important but not recommended for top velocity levels or hot days due to potential variations.

Inconsistency of H414 Powder

The speaker highlights the inconsistency of H414 powder on certain days.

Inconsistency of H414 Powder

• H414 powder can be extremely accurate on some days but become erratic on hot days or when exposed to a warm chamber.

• Other powders like Reloader 15 or IMR 4064 offer better overall accuracy and reliability from day to day.

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The target did not change and the speaker will show the target.

Target Demonstration

• The target remains unchanged.