powder choices (handguns only)

BP7

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question for those who reload a few different calibers of handgun: do you pick one powder and use it for your various rounds and just dump in a bit more or a bit less, or do you keep 2-3 different powders around for the various calibers? i guess part of it depends on how many different rounds you reload...
 
hmm, what about short case (like 9 or 40) versus long case (like 38Spl) powders? do you use a different one for the long case to make it easier to check the volume or to get a more reliable burn, or does one powder work for both cases for you?
 
I like to use 7625 for accurate and plinking loads in all handgun calibers. It is a medium speed powder (like unique) but the powder measures much smoother than Unique. For heavy duty loads I use Blue Dot or 296.

I have used 231. Find it very dirty.

I have used TightGroup. I find it gives a more violent recoil than 7625.

I use 7625 in 32ACP, 32 S&W, 380 ACP, 9x17, 9x19, 38 SPl, 357Mag, 38 Spl, 40 S&W, 44mag, 45ACP, 45 Colt, 455 Webely
 
I use Unique for 9mm and Bullseye for .38spl and .357Mag. Unique seems to be more of a shotshell powder but it also makes a really nice 9mm load for some reason.
 
which would you recommend as a suitable powder to learn with? something that's tolerant of going a wee bit high or low? based on the tables, 7625 and Universal both look quite nice overall, though Longshot has some interesting ranges too.
 
W231 for:
  • 9mm
  • 40S&W
  • 45 ACP
  • 38 special
  • 357 mag
  • 44 mag
W231 seems to be dirty with lead bullet loads in revolvers, in semi auto pistols however I find it quite clean burning.

For heavier loads in 357 and 44 mag, I use Bluedot.

Two powders is all I use for handguns. For rifles I use only one powder: Varget.
 
which would you recommend as a suitable powder to learn with? something that's tolerant of going a wee bit high or low? based on the tables, 7625 and Universal both look quite nice overall, though Longshot has some interesting ranges too.

HP-38 / W231, HS-6 - they flow and measure well, there are loads for many bullet weights and a few calibers too; and you shouldn't be able to reach dangerous pressures either.
 
Been using Bullseye for everything except .41AE(it doesn't get loaded much. Suitable cast bullets are impossible to get. Jacketed are too expensive.) for eons.
"...a wee bit high or low?..." Buy a scale.
 
Right now, I'm using Accurate #2 for 9mm, .38 Special, .45 ACP, and light .44 Magnum loads (I will also soon be using it for .40 S&W). I use H110 for full power .44 Magnum.

My preferred powder is Titegroup if I can find any, but most types of fast-burning pistol powders such as W231/HP-38, Bullseye, AA#2, Unique, Universal Clays, etc. will work acceptably for any of the non-magnum pistol reloading I do. I prefer to use slower burning powders for magnum loads, as they tend to fill the case more completely and there is less chance of a mishap, given that you are pushing the envelope to a greater extent than with regular loadings.
 
Another vote for W231. It's all I use in 9mm and 40 S&W. I get graet accuracy and I find it meters well when throwing charges.
 
which would you recommend as a suitable powder to learn with? something that's tolerant of going a wee bit high or low? based on the tables, 7625 and Universal both look quite nice overall, though Longshot has some interesting ranges too.

I agree with Universal. Recently started using it in 9mm and I am satisfied with its overall characteristics like accuracy and recoil. I load 124 grain LRN over 4.4 grains Universal, which is a little below maximum and get 100% reliable feeding and ejection in my Ruger P89. No primer flattening. Haven't chrono'd though. Pistol still looks clean after more than 150 rounds.

Titegroup for .38 SPL+P in my 6 inch 686 and GP100 with 125 grain Rainier Plated HPs over 5.1 grains TG, makes a lot of noise. 5 inch 6-shot groups at 25 meters....inaccuracy can be attributed to my poor shooting IMO. Haven't chrono'd but could be close to or exceeding maximum recommended velocities of 1,200 fps.

231 is dirty, IMO so stopped using it.
 
anyone use Clays or Longshot? those two look mighty "interesting". Clays for practice and Longshot for making power factor in competition. yes? no?
 
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