IMR 800-X for handgun reloads

[k9kev88]

So... like everyone else these days, I went to the Dixie Gun Show in Raleigh, NC today with no real expectations for finding HP-38, HS-6, Unique, 2400, etc... I have a long list of any powder that will do for 9mm, 45 ACP, etc.

My expectations were met - lots of rifle powder (at inflated prices) and no handgun powder.

Then I ran across a dealer that was mostly selling firearms, but had a few bottles of powder... and one 8 lb keg of IMR 800-X... for $139.99 . I had 800-X on my list of possibilities, and for $139.99 I was surprised that it was even sitting there (on a Sunday). I asked the guy about it... his response was "some people are just picky and won't use it."

The other dealers in the area were selling IMR rifle powder 8 lb kegs for $200+ so I grabbed it. A quick search shows that I can use it for 380 ACP, 9mm, 40 S&W, 45 ACP, 44 Mag - lots of uses.

Anyone have experience of advice on using 800-X for handgun loads?

 

[243winxb]

What i said here - http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_6_42/423772_Hi_Skor_800X_in_a_Dillon_550__Now_with_powder_drop_results_.html There is load data for all the cartridges you listed on the Hodgdon website. So you should be good to gol.

 

[Pentrite]

Its a large flakey powder with a burn rate slower than Unique but faster than accurate #5. Ive used it in .45, 10mm and 44mag and like it. My last batch of .45acp was 7.6gr of 800x which chrono'd out at 850fps (230gr RN Extreme bullets, Winchester large pistol primers, range brass). This was shot from a short barrel Glock 36. I expected more velocity but with the 3.5" barrel 850 was fine. No primer damage.

The only down side is the large flakes dont meter that well.

8lbs is a great score.. Im jealous, down to a couple pounds and no powder to be found anywhere..

 

[k9kev88]

thanks for the replies. I did a little looking and I see the threads now about the problems metering it. I'm willing to deal with a little trouble, especially for the price!

I have a Lee Classic 4-turret and will have to try it out. I'm wondering if there is some way to deal with this, especially since I don't use a progressive press.

 

[Doc.Holliday]

Works great in 45 colt. Ken Waters liked it to

Doc

 

[Elkins45]

It's a great powder in 10mm.

I can understand why people don't want to use it...it meters like paper plates.

 

[BluewaterLa]

Ived used it in 9mm with 124 gr fmj, clean burning and excellent accuracy.
Also worked up some 357 loads with good results for plinking.
Had to weigh all charges by hand, still like cornflakes (800x)