I've been reloading for about a year but one thing I'm having trouble with is lets say my reloading book shows 10 different powders for one cartridge. How do I pick the one that would be the most likely candidate. I know all will work but some will preform better than others.
How to pick a powder for a new load
- Thread starter S.billy
- Start date
- Status
Potatohead
Member
- Joined
- Mar 9, 2013
- Messages
- 5,375
Probably quite a few answers Im betting. For one, there's hardly any "selection" of powder at the moment. I'm lucky to have one or two that are listed in the data.
Most manuals I have mark their "best" loads, by either listing that powder at the top of the data, or actually highlighting it or putting an asterick of some sort. Some mention it in the cartridge description in the manual preceding the actual data.
I would think finding the best accuracy is mainly lots of trial and error.
You can also look at the FPS and choose depending what you want out of that particular load (plinking, SD).
That's some of the stuff I check out anyway.
Most manuals I have mark their "best" loads, by either listing that powder at the top of the data, or actually highlighting it or putting an asterick of some sort. Some mention it in the cartridge description in the manual preceding the actual data.
I would think finding the best accuracy is mainly lots of trial and error.
You can also look at the FPS and choose depending what you want out of that particular load (plinking, SD).
That's some of the stuff I check out anyway.
Potatohead
Member
- Joined
- Mar 9, 2013
- Messages
- 5,375
*Disclaimer
FYI I'm not nearly experienced as most of the other guys around here that answer a lot of these questions, so take what I say with a grain of salt.
FYI I'm not nearly experienced as most of the other guys around here that answer a lot of these questions, so take what I say with a grain of salt.
gonoles_1980
Member
I pick the one that's on the shelf. At least I'm stocked up enough now with high priced powder that I can wait around for it to get cheaper.
ljnowell
Member
A lot of it's experience. Eventually most reloaders use several different powders before settling on a few that they like. Some never settle on a few.
I like powders that meter well. So in pistol I look for fine ball powder like Accurate Arms pistol powders. If not those I use small flake like 2400 or Power Pistol.
Another thing to look at is what pressure range a powder burns best at. If you are loading 45 acp and 38 special for example they both run at similar pressure ranges. Powders like AA#2, w231, Bullseye, or even AA#5 are all great choices in that pressure range.
Another great way to pick a powder is to come to THR and ask. We all love to give recommendations. You can take those recommendations and research the data in load manuals and make an informed choice.
Let us not forget Google works wonders too!
I like powders that meter well. So in pistol I look for fine ball powder like Accurate Arms pistol powders. If not those I use small flake like 2400 or Power Pistol.
Another thing to look at is what pressure range a powder burns best at. If you are loading 45 acp and 38 special for example they both run at similar pressure ranges. Powders like AA#2, w231, Bullseye, or even AA#5 are all great choices in that pressure range.
Another great way to pick a powder is to come to THR and ask. We all love to give recommendations. You can take those recommendations and research the data in load manuals and make an informed choice.
Let us not forget Google works wonders too!
witchhunter
Member
What cartridge and bullet? What gun are you loading for? There are some simple rules of thumb but they are general mostly. We need more info.
gamestalker
member
Witchhunter asked the questions we need to know, other wise the question the OP has posed becomes extremely vague and broad.
But there is a broad generalized answer that would apply to pistol, revolver, and high powered rifle, very broad though. For me, I go with the slower burning options for any load, for any cartridge, but I don't load target stuff, only full throttle jacketed. Some would prefer faster or mid range burners, so there you have it.
So you see, it really depends on what cartridge your loading for, the type of projectiles your using, and the type of shooting you are engaged in.
GS
But there is a broad generalized answer that would apply to pistol, revolver, and high powered rifle, very broad though. For me, I go with the slower burning options for any load, for any cartridge, but I don't load target stuff, only full throttle jacketed. Some would prefer faster or mid range burners, so there you have it.
So you see, it really depends on what cartridge your loading for, the type of projectiles your using, and the type of shooting you are engaged in.
GS
Jesse Heywood
Member
It also depends on your firearm. There are also differences with guns of the same make and model.
Some of the manuals have loads that are marked as select or preferred. Those usually make good starting points. However, as stated by others, today's market limits the choice. I go powder shopping with a list of powders that will work and see if anything is available.
Some of the manuals have loads that are marked as select or preferred. Those usually make good starting points. However, as stated by others, today's market limits the choice. I go powder shopping with a list of powders that will work and see if anything is available.
Powder choice
-I determine what type of round i am wanting to load first.
-Then look at the different fps for the powders and then decide.
-Also now i take in to consideration what i can actually get my hands on which is the biggest factor.
-Accuracy with different powders is not able to be determined by print it is unfortunately a trial based thing.
-I determine what type of round i am wanting to load first.
-Then look at the different fps for the powders and then decide.
-Also now i take in to consideration what i can actually get my hands on which is the biggest factor.
-Accuracy with different powders is not able to be determined by print it is unfortunately a trial based thing.
reddrumtoo
Member
- Joined
- Dec 14, 2012
- Messages
- 66
My method of selecting a powder is to look at the maximum velocities that can be attained in a given cartridge . Pick the top two or three , then back off of that max charge to find the most accurate load with a given bullet . Works for me . Usually wind up with a case nearly full of powder , good effeciency , & a good standard deviation . Good luck.
The cartridge I'm asking about is .223. I picked up a h&r the other day and am getting all my reloading stuff together for it. When I picked a powder for my 243 I just went with the highlighted on in my nosler book. I figured there has to be some reason to pick a powder over another. Thanks
Take a look at the burn rate of the powders listed in your manual. Then pick your powder depending on if you are loading heavy or light bullets for that caliber. ie...if you are loading Heavy bullets, pick one of the slower burn rate powders and vice-versa
http://www.hodgdon.com/burn-rate.html
Last edited:
oldpapps
Member
First we will determine that we do not need to reinvent the wheel. If (insert powder name here) is listed in 2 or 3 or 4 different loading books, then 'it' must be usable in that particular case and bullet combination.
Next is (at this time) to determine just what powders are available.
Look to what others have written about their experiences with that given combination of components.
All of those are straight forward. Now starts your true selection process. You as the loader must balance the views of others, giving weight to just how much you trust each provider's input.
Reams have been written about loads for the .38 Special, 9MM, .357 Mag... and on and on. When Elmer Keith gave his load for the 'new' 44 Mag, it was new and inventive. Half a century later it is still one of the standards.
Some powders have reputations for certain things, both good and bad. Take heed to this data if there is multiple sources (not re-telling the same story).
In short, read what others have written.
I see your current endeavor is for the .223. There is a pile about loads for that one. You also list the weapon as being a ' h&r '. This doesn't tell a lot.
Now to what I do... What powder do I have on hand that is known to do well in 'X' cartridge when fired in a 'Y' type weapon? I also attempt to keep my inventories of components to a lesser number of types. I have and like 748 when loading .308/7.62 and it does well in the .222. I continued the use of 748 in the .223/5.56 with good results. A change of components (bullet weight) may tend to need/want a change in other components (powder type) or primer type. Go with what works best. Experimentation is the name of the game. Evaluate and keep or change. I have used 'Varget', many love it. I found that I perceive a greater concussion when using it. Does this make any logical sense? No. It is right at the same burn rate listing as 748 (burn rate location on a chart does not relate to anything more than some dumb chart. Don't try to load by that dumb chart.) My perception of 'Varget' is my determination on it's use.
Load development is to start with a known safe set of components and work both up and down in powder charge weights, seating depths and primer types to find 'That Load' that gives 110%. To me this is the challenge in loading.
Only follow the guidelines set forth by a known and trusted source. Don't trust me, you don't know me. Powder/bullet makers are a good source.
One other thing, this can/should be important. Keep records on your load tests. These notes can/will save re-testing at some later date.
Load with care.
Next is (at this time) to determine just what powders are available.
Look to what others have written about their experiences with that given combination of components.
All of those are straight forward. Now starts your true selection process. You as the loader must balance the views of others, giving weight to just how much you trust each provider's input.
Reams have been written about loads for the .38 Special, 9MM, .357 Mag... and on and on. When Elmer Keith gave his load for the 'new' 44 Mag, it was new and inventive. Half a century later it is still one of the standards.
Some powders have reputations for certain things, both good and bad. Take heed to this data if there is multiple sources (not re-telling the same story).
In short, read what others have written.
I see your current endeavor is for the .223. There is a pile about loads for that one. You also list the weapon as being a ' h&r '. This doesn't tell a lot.
Now to what I do... What powder do I have on hand that is known to do well in 'X' cartridge when fired in a 'Y' type weapon? I also attempt to keep my inventories of components to a lesser number of types. I have and like 748 when loading .308/7.62 and it does well in the .222. I continued the use of 748 in the .223/5.56 with good results. A change of components (bullet weight) may tend to need/want a change in other components (powder type) or primer type. Go with what works best. Experimentation is the name of the game. Evaluate and keep or change. I have used 'Varget', many love it. I found that I perceive a greater concussion when using it. Does this make any logical sense? No. It is right at the same burn rate listing as 748 (burn rate location on a chart does not relate to anything more than some dumb chart. Don't try to load by that dumb chart.) My perception of 'Varget' is my determination on it's use.
Load development is to start with a known safe set of components and work both up and down in powder charge weights, seating depths and primer types to find 'That Load' that gives 110%. To me this is the challenge in loading.
Only follow the guidelines set forth by a known and trusted source. Don't trust me, you don't know me. Powder/bullet makers are a good source.
One other thing, this can/should be important. Keep records on your load tests. These notes can/will save re-testing at some later date.
Load with care.
spitballer
Member
Heavier bullets as a rule require slower powders. I generally try to use the fastest powder I can get away with because I want the bullet to stabilize before getting to the end of the barrel and I don't want a lot of muzzle blast. Yes I sacrifice velocity, but the accuracy is worth it. After consulting with competitive shooters I also have recently slowed my rate of fire to one shot per minute with excellent results using faster powder. This with a bolt action rifle; autos are another ball game altogether.
ArchAngelCD
Member.
For rifle cartridges I usually try to pick a powder that will fill the case best. Over the years I have found, the most accurate loads are those made with a powder that fills the case 90% or more. Of course powder reputation vs a cartridge also comes into play.
Example: many reloaders will say 4350 is too slow a powder for lighter bullets in the 30-06 but I use 4350 with 165gr bullets all the time and can achieve 1/2MOA accuracy.
For handgun cartridges it's very difficult to find a powder that will fill the case so for the most part I go by reputation and trial and error.
ArchAngelCD
Member.
Sunray
Member
"...the highlighted on in my Nosler book..." That'd be the max load. Do not start with max loads.
As mentioned, some manuals give an accuracy load for a given bullet weight. Lyman's and No$ler's do. Hodgdon's and Speers do not. I quit using manufacturer's manuals long ago myself. Only because they give data for their products only. Anyway, the accuracy load powder has always worked well for me.
As mentioned, some manuals give an accuracy load for a given bullet weight. Lyman's and No$ler's do. Hodgdon's and Speers do not. I quit using manufacturer's manuals long ago myself. Only because they give data for their products only. Anyway, the accuracy load powder has always worked well for me.
Potatohead
Member
- Joined
- Mar 9, 2013
- Messages
- 5,375
Good point Sunray, make sure your starting at the start. It sounded a little like you flipped thru the book and just put your finger down and wherever it landed is the load you used. I know that wasn't the case but do be careful.
A Google search on "best 223 powder for hand loading" can give you different opinions. That helped me choose Varget for 223. But good manuals are essential for reliable information. I like the Sierra manual. The velocities have proven so accurate, that I don't bother with my chrono anymore. So if the guys at Sierra say that a certain powder is good for accuracy or hunting, I would tend to believe them.
I always start with the start load and go up from there. Not in the year I have been reloading have I ever even made or got close to max load. What I'm asking is how to determine the best powder of the listed powders. I own 4 to 5 reloading books so I don't ever just pick a number at or close to max load.
AABEN
Member
A Sierra load book will give what powder with there bullets is accurate and a hunting load also. Good Luck
AABEN
Member
VERY well put.
- Status
