Quick Tip: Selecting the Right Powder for Your Reload

Published on March 24, 2021
Duration: 2:37

This video provides a quick tip on selecting the right powder for reloading. It emphasizes consulting reloading manuals for caliber-specific information and understanding the difference between fast-burning powders for pistol/shotgun and slower-burning powders for rifle. The choice also depends on whether the goal is maximum velocity or economy loads.

Quick Summary

When selecting reloading powder, always consult your manual for your specific caliber. Fast-burning powders like Winchester 231 are good for economy pistol loads, while slower powders are needed for maximum rifle velocity. Consider your goal: maximum velocity or more loads per pound.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Powder Selection
  2. 00:15Consult Your Reloading Manual
  3. 00:22Pistol vs. Rifle Powder Burn Rates
  4. 00:36Maximum Velocity vs. Economy Loads
  5. 00:44Example: .357 Magnum Light Loads
  6. 01:02Maximum Loads and Slower Powders
  7. 01:19Component Availability and Economy
  8. 01:32Rifle Cartridge Powder Considerations
  9. 01:53Safety and Pressure Warnings
  10. 02:05Basic Powder Selection Recap
  11. 02:12Working Up Loads Safely

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in selecting a reloading powder?

The very first step in selecting a reloading powder is to consult your reloading manual. This manual will provide essential information on suitable powders for your specific caliber, including recommended charges and pressure data.

What's the difference between fast and slow burning powders in reloading?

Fast burning powders are typically used for pistol and shotgun cartridges, requiring smaller charges and yielding more loads per pound. Slow burning powders are generally for rifle cartridges, using larger charges and providing more power but fewer loads per pound.

How do I choose a powder for economy versus maximum velocity?

For economy loads, opt for faster burning powders like Winchester 231 or Bullseye, as they require less powder per round, maximizing loads from a single pound. For maximum velocity, you'll generally need slower burning powders with larger charge weights.

Are there specific powder types for different rifle cartridges?

Yes, lower pressure or straight-wall rifle cartridges might use faster powders. However, ultra-magnums and large-case calibers, especially those with a necked-down bullet, typically require slower burning powders to manage the large case volume.

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