cainttype
12-02-2014, 10:47 AM
In case anyone else here grabbed a supply of the surplus 4759 "Flake" powder that was available a few months back, and has yet to test it, I thought this info might be helpful.
My first chance for a real comparison of the surplus flake (thick flakes, light grey, with a few red ID flakes included) came yesterday. Using a B&M measure, I compared a known volume with the micrometer drop tube to commercial IMR 4759. The flake weighed 13% less, so it is definitely bulkier. With IMR 4759 the weight was 21.5gr compared to the flake's weight of 18.7gr.
To test fire, the same known charge was reduced BY VOLUME 10% as a starting point using a 338 Federal pushing the NOE 340-201 (211 grain).
The IMR 4759 charge of 21.5 gr clocks at an average of 1650 fps. The reduced charge of flake (approximately 20-25% by weight) averaged 1690 fps, so it is definitely faster.
The ES and SD numbers with the flake powder were very good, better than the commercial.
With the extra bulk, consistant chrono results, economic charge weights, and good accuracy, the flake is definitely worth playing with. I would suggest ignoring the advise given to me originally, "Use IMR 4759 data", and recommend starting loads at least 25% below any of your established 4759 favorites until you know for sure that you're OK.
If I see more, I'll buy more. So far, I like it a lot.
My first chance for a real comparison of the surplus flake (thick flakes, light grey, with a few red ID flakes included) came yesterday. Using a B&M measure, I compared a known volume with the micrometer drop tube to commercial IMR 4759. The flake weighed 13% less, so it is definitely bulkier. With IMR 4759 the weight was 21.5gr compared to the flake's weight of 18.7gr.
To test fire, the same known charge was reduced BY VOLUME 10% as a starting point using a 338 Federal pushing the NOE 340-201 (211 grain).
The IMR 4759 charge of 21.5 gr clocks at an average of 1650 fps. The reduced charge of flake (approximately 20-25% by weight) averaged 1690 fps, so it is definitely faster.
The ES and SD numbers with the flake powder were very good, better than the commercial.
With the extra bulk, consistant chrono results, economic charge weights, and good accuracy, the flake is definitely worth playing with. I would suggest ignoring the advise given to me originally, "Use IMR 4759 data", and recommend starting loads at least 25% below any of your established 4759 favorites until you know for sure that you're OK.
If I see more, I'll buy more. So far, I like it a lot.