Ep. 232 - Is Your Powder TOO Sensitive - Or Are You?

Published on April 23, 2026
Duration: 62:31

This guide details how to test propellant temperature sensitivity, a crucial factor for consistent long-range accuracy. It emphasizes using a reliable chronograph and testing ammunition across a wide temperature range, from cold to hot conditions. The process involves calculating the muzzle velocity change per degree Fahrenheit to understand how temperature fluctuations affect performance, enabling shooters to account for these variations in their ballistic solutions.

Quick Summary

Propellant temperature sensitivity describes how a powder's burn rate changes with temperature, affecting muzzle velocity and pressure. Double-based powders are typically more sensitive than single-based. Testing involves shooting over a chronograph at extreme temperatures and calculating the velocity change per degree Fahrenheit. This factor can be input into ballistic apps to adjust trajectory, crucial for long-range accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Powder Temperature Sensitivity
  2. 01:25What is Powder Temperature Sensitivity?
  3. 02:52Single-Based vs. Double-Based Propellants
  4. 06:21Examples of Single-Based Powders
  5. 06:59Examples of Double-Based Powders
  6. 07:57When Did Temperature Sensitivity Become a Concern?
  7. 10:38What is Good vs. Bad Temperature Sensitivity?
  8. 15:21Double-Based Propellants: Spherical & Extruded
  9. 20:36When Does Temperature Sensitivity Matter?
  10. 26:45Trajectory Comparison: Temperature Sensitivity Impact
  11. 36:42Delta Comparison: Velocity vs. Sensitivity
  12. 44:57How to Test Propellant Temperature Sensitivity
  13. 49:20Integrating Sensitivity into Extreme Spread
  14. 53:34Using Temperature Sensitivity Data in Ballistic Apps
  15. 59:04Velocity, Pressure, and Temperature
  16. 60:42Conclusion: Don't Fear Temperature Sensitive Powders

Frequently Asked Questions

What is propellant temperature sensitivity and why does it matter?

Propellant temperature sensitivity refers to how much a powder's burn rate changes with temperature, affecting muzzle velocity and pressure. It matters because significant shifts can alter bullet trajectory, potentially causing misses at longer ranges if not accounted for, especially in competitive shooting or hunting scenarios.

Are double-based powders more temperature sensitive than single-based?

Yes, double-based powders, which contain nitroglycerin, are generally more temperature sensitive than single-based powders (nitrocellulose). The nitroglycerin adds energy but also increases susceptibility to temperature fluctuations, impacting burn rate and velocity more significantly.

How can I test my ammunition's temperature sensitivity?

To test, shoot your ammunition over a chronograph at significantly different temperatures (e.g., 30°F and 90°F). Record the muzzle velocities and calculate the difference per degree Fahrenheit. Using a cooler for cold testing and direct sun or a hot vehicle for warm testing can help achieve the necessary temperature extremes.

Does temperature sensitivity matter for hunting at typical ranges?

For most hunting distances (under 500-600 yards), the impact of temperature sensitivity is often negligible, especially for larger game. However, for smaller varmints or extended range hunting, accounting for temperature changes can be crucial for precise shot placement.

How do I account for propellant temperature sensitivity in my ballistic calculations?

Use ballistic solver apps that allow you to input your propellant's temperature sensitivity factor. The app will then adjust your ballistic solution based on the current temperature. Alternatively, you can manually adjust your muzzle velocity input based on the temperature difference and your tested sensitivity factor.

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