is this powder any good??

lightmag

lightmag

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in the reloading gear i was given there was some powder too, IMR 4227 and this higginson 44 (also says 3031 data)

what are these powders good for?? i will be loading for a 300 wsm and a 30-06??

what would you recommend for the 300 wsm?? i've been told Re-loader 17 & 22? any other thoughts?? I will be loading mostly federal casings ( some winchester), and shooting a 180gr bullet, most likely a accubond or hornady interbond.

browning x bolt rifle,

thanks
 
That Higginson #44 powder might be suspect. If the metal on the top and bottom of the can (on the inside) or on the inside of the lid is rusty, it is likely deteriorating. I bought a large quantity of that stuff when it was first available from old Tom Higginson. I used it quite a bit for about 20 years, then noticed it was getting rusty and acidic smelling. The inside of the cans metal/paper, showed rust. The vapors from some, that was in a 7lb box/plastic bag, caused the bolts holding the shelf together to rust. It was also sweaty and lumpy. The cost of that powder was originally $4.50/pound. It will also cause rust in your bore, if it is deteriorating as well.

Personally, I wouldn't take a chance with it. It was first put up for sale in 1977.

They are both a bit fast for the 300WSM.
 
4227 is more than a "bit fast" it is the fastest IMR rifle powder, and is suitable for the .22 hornet, but could only be used in the .300 wsm case with very light cast bullets. It would be very easy to load a dangerous high pressure charge with such a fast powder, and velocity won't be good.
I agree with bearhunter on the #44 powder, that's the only powder I've ever used that deteriorated and had to be thrown out. And that was twenty years ago. RL 17 or 22 would be a good choice for the cartridges you mention, as would IMR or H 4831.
 
I had a can of 44 go bad as well. Bought in the late 80's I think.

Just as described above: lumpy, rust in the can, smell.
But if yours is not showing these symptoms then it should be fine. Even though it's not suited to the 300 WSM.

You could likely use it in the 30-06 but it's not ideal.
 
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