380 low flash powder recommendations

[quaid]

I'd like to load 380 lead ball for all uses. I don't shoot my carry ammo enough, and I especially don't shoot my pocket 380 enough. I don't expect it to be a rifle, and I don't expect it to be a velocity king, but I would like powder recommendations for a lower flash.

I will be using 100 grn lead ball, out of a 2.75" barrel. Wikipedia says the keltec has a locked breach.

It would help me if it was one of the powders I already have on hand...

bullseye
titegroup
win 231
unique
power pistol
blue dot
800x

 

[Starter52]

I just ran 50 rounds of .380 through a BDA at an indoor range (low lighting) without any muzzle flash that I could see. The rounds were loaded with WW 231.

 

[Artofgolf]

380 Auto

From Lee (2nd Edition) for 100 grain jacketed bullets:

Titegroup 2.6 - 3.0max OAL 0.980 (min)
WIN 231 2.9 - 3.1max OAL 0.980 (min)
IMR 800X 3.5 - 4.0max OAL 0.980 (min)

Titegroup may be the best choice of the 3, IMHO.

If a low-flash alternative is imperative, consider the new BE-86
http://www.alliantpowder.com/reload...1&weight=95&shellid=22&bulletid=313&bdid=1202

 

[JRH6856]

When I want a low flash powder, I go with Ramshot Silhouette, but if you don't have it, I doubt you will find it. I haven't seen Ramshot powders in over a year.

Given what you have, I might try Titegroup and W231. Definitely not Power Pistol.

 

[AFK]

I use 231 with no noticeable flash.

 

[Walkalong]

On that list, I would go with W-231 as well.

 

[kcofohio]

Earlier this year I took some work up loads to the range for 38 Spl. with W231 and Titegroup.

It was nearing dusk, so the muzzle flash was showing. I seem to recall that the W231 had slightly more flash than Titegroup. This is where I tell myself that I need to keep better notes. Either way, neither seemed to produce extreme flash out of the LCR.

 

[quaid]

Is there a relationship between fast powders and a complete burn when the barrel is only 2.75"?

 

[mstreddy]

OP, check out the threads on handloading for the Glock 42. ArtOfGolf, Voudon, BDS, and others have done some work ups for 380. Of those you list, Win231 is what I've used. I've also been using Promo (Red Dot).

 

[JRH6856]

Is there a relationship between fast powders and a complete burn when the barrel is only 2.75"?

Yes, but there are a lot of other factors involved and it is complicated to the point that burn rate alone is not adequately predictive of consumption.