Unique vs Universal

[onecruiser]

I just recently purchased some Universal, since I had heard it was cleaner burning and had about the same properties as Unique. I've also heard that you can safely substitute Unique loads with Universal since Universal load information is pretty spotty.

I had great luck with a target 44 special load of 5.2 grains of Universal under a 255 grain semi.

I'd like to try Universal with a 38 special BBWC and move it about 1000 fps.
Any ideas?

 

[GeneS]

I've loaded some 9mm with Universal. It has a similar burn rate as Unique. It is somewhat cleaner and meters a lot better. The load data for the two powders are NOT interchangable though. A load I'm using now of 5.2 grs. of Unique needs only 4.7 grs. of Universal for the same velocity. If one were to try to use Unique data for Universal, you could get into trouble.

Gene

 

[Johnny Guest]

There is SOME interchangeability - - -

- -But not across the board, and certainly NOT for top loads.

If you are totally devoid of information for Universal, you can use Starting or light charge weights shown for Unique - - There is enough similarity so that this is acceptable.

JUST AS AN EXAMPLE: If loading data for .44 Special with a 240 LSWC shows Unique, starting 4.5 gr. for 600 fps, and max 5.6 gr. for 850, you'd be safe in using 4.5 gr. of Universal. DO NOT go directly to top load of Unique and substitute Universal.

In reality, it is too easy to obtain decent load information from the Hodgon web site to make guesses and interpolations of this sort. If you're reading this, you have web access. Check out - -
http://www.hodgdon.com/data/pistol/index.php and find some data there. Also, Hogdon and the other powder companies ship out their current pamphlets with bunches of loading information - - These are given away free at dealers who sell the powder.

Best of luck to you - -
Johnny