Xelex Powder ID

madtrapper143

madtrapper143

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Hey guys I have two pounds of the following powders from the old Xelex company in eastern Ontario. They are labeled XL101 and XL104. Any old-timers have any idea what these powders are? I know that the company bulk purchased common rifle powders and renamed them. Any help would be appreciated.

regards, Darryl
 
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If I had 2 pounds of each, I would attempt to calibrate them. If only 1 pound of each, not worth the effort.

I would assume the 101 was 3031 and would load a Start load from the book and shoot over a Chony.

I would assume the 104 was 4350 and would load a Start load from the book and shoot over a Chony.

You may prefer to make a fire with it.
 
Not doubting you in the least but what is the basis for your assumption? I can find no info anywhere to remotely ID this stuff. I know the fellow that had it loaded for .30-30 and .303 British but I would not attempt to ID the stuff based on that.

Darryl
 
madtrapper143 said:
Not doubting you in the least but what is the basis for your assumption? I can find no info anywhere to remotely ID this stuff. I know the fellow that had it loaded for .30-30 and .303 British but I would not attempt to ID the stuff based on that.

Darryl
Click to expand...

Ganderite is the powder guru. He's burned through more of it than most and been involved behind the scenes like few could even dream about...
 
If I remember correctly, Xelex was a trade name used by Ammomart Powders, predecessor to Higginson Powders in hawkesbury. They might have an answer for you.
 
I get it. I was not doubting your expertise. I just thought maybe you were familiar with the powders. I don't think I will attempt any loads with this powder. More curious than anything. Again thanks for the learned input.

Darryl
 
For years, Xelex [later Ammomart] marketed a powder they called HP104 or just 104. It was about 2 grains faster
in a 30-06 with 165 grain bullets than was IMR 4350 [In other words, you used 2 grains less of 104 than IMR 4350.]
From personal experience, it was quite similar to a later surplus from Higginsons labelled 47N. Hope this helps a bit. Dave.
 
Thanks Dave. That bit of info helps a lot. Ganterite's idea of minimum load and work up is sounds for sure. Have to experiment a little. I don't load for a calibre that suits 4350 but it MAY work in my .303 British.

darryl
 
Ganderite is the powder Guru. Higginson responded to my email today and advised the powders were: XL101 is IMR 3031 and XL 104 is IMR 4350. Just like the man said. I am not worthy. Higginson stated the info was from 1971.

Darryl
 
madtrapper143 said:
Ganderite is the powder Guru. Higginson responded to my email today and advised the powders were: XL101 is IMR 3031 and XL 104 is IMR 4350. Just like the man said. I am not worthy. Higginson stated the info was from 1971.

Darryl
Click to expand...

There are a few people who's input I take as gospel around these parts. If it's reloading related, Ganderite sure knows his stuff - I bet he could write an encyclopedia on this stuff that would give any reloading manual a run for their money.
 
madtrapper143 said:
Ganderite is the powder Guru. Higginson responded to my email today and advised the powders were: XL101 is IMR 3031 and XL 104 is IMR 4350. Just like the man said. I am not worthy. Higginson stated the info was from 1971.

Darryl
Click to expand...

XL104 was a non-canister grade 4350. It was faster than canister grade 4350. Start with the Start load and work up and watch your velocity.
 
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