Win231 vs Unique: Which do you prefer? What do you use it in?

[VariableRecall]

I have been seeing a lot of posts regarding the use of Unique in a variety of loads. However, in these turbulent times, I've yet to see a single pound of it on any store that I've visited, most likely due to its popularity nationwide.

Thankfully I've been able to grab some of a powder that I have found quite satisfactory for the loads that my brother and I use for .38 Special and .45 ACP: Winchester 231. As far as I've used it, the loads that I use have left very little unburnt powder in either of the firearms we use. In my brother's .45 RIA 1911, 4.8 grains leaves a very satisfying flower of reddish-purple muzzle blast while still having a comfortable amount of recoil. 5.2 grains left a sizable amount of unburnt powder in the internal bits. Haven't chrono'd anything but it's been very reliable for us.

I've personally been using 3.8-4.0 grains of win231 in my loads for 158 grain boolits. that has lead to mild recoil and satisfactory accuracy. However, I need to keep up my accuracy on par with my revolver. But, I'm getting a little better every time I make it to the range thanks to your help!

Still, I'd like to know the similarities or differences between Unique and 231, as well as any similarities between 231 and other powders. I'd looked at WST, but I'm not sure what it could be used for anything else.

What are your thoughts on Unique and Win 231, and how do you use it?

[Evoken]

I cannot comment on unique as it is not on my shelf. Win 231 is the same as hp-38 according to hodgdon. I have had good luck with it in 38spl. It was ok in 45acp.
One of my 38 loads is 4gr under a 158gr rn lee tumble lube boolit. It does well.
Ken

[Rcmaveric]

I use HP-38 and Unique... great powders. I have used Unique in everything. Can be a little dirty but it works great.

HP-38 inhave only used in 9mm, 380 ACP and 357 Mag. It works great and is clean.

Sent from my SM-N970U using Tapatalk

[NC_JEFF]

I've loaded more 158swc bullets in 38 using W231 than I could ever count, these days I usually use Bullseye in its place but 231. Will always be an option for me

[winelover]

I have used them both. W-231 is a ball powder and meters much better than Unique, which is a flake powder. However, I prefer Unique and purchase it by the 8 pound jug. Just more versatile for what I reload.

Winelover

[sharps4590]

I would use Unique in any of the firearms I own with the exception of muzzleloaders. I cannot say that for W-231.

Win. 231 gave me an accurate load in a 45 Colt, SAA that had been trying my patience for several years so I like it in that revolver. However, 231 won't compare with Unique for being versatile but, that's only important if you use it in rifles, any rifle, for reduced loads...or shotgun loads.

[Ateam]

winelover hit it on the head. Metering. I use both extensively. Tends to be 231 in the autos that I load on a progressive and need to meter well without much hassle. revolver loads and reduced rifle tend to be unique, though 2400 is common for these also.

[ABJ]

I couldn't choose between the two, they are both great powders. I can and have found good loads using both but unique has the benefit of reduced rifle loads because of its size, ie... better case fill. If I needed to fill this gap I would buy either one and not blink an eye.
Tony

[CraigOK]

Unique will do things 231 won't, but if you're just loafing for those 2 cartridges there are many powders that will do well.

[dverna]

HP38/231 are my preferred powders for 9mm, 38 spl light loads. 40 S&W and .45, but I stock Unique. I only use Unique in 20 and 28 ga, but I can use it in everything I reload if I have to.

As long as supply is out there, I will continue to use a dedicated pistol powder like HP38 that meters well. In addition I get more loads per pound with HP38. So it works better (for my needs) and is less expensive....win/win.

I had four jugs of Unique but will be selling three this weekend for a lot more than I paid for it. It is good powder to have on hand during shortages as it is easy to sell and will command a higher price due to its versatility. When things settle back down I will stock it back up.

BTW, I feel the same way about Promo/Red Dot. Very economical and useful over a wide range of applications. It is another of my "stocking powders".

VR, you are new to reloading and have entered the hobby at the worst time. There are many powders that will work but are not ideal so study the manuals and online manufacturer resources. When things improve, you will be better off with HP38 in the calibers you currently load for...IMO. For some stupid reason, HP38 is a bit less expensive than 231, but they are the same powder.

[35isit]

I like both powders. 231/HP38 for .357 magnum target loads in a Contender. I shoot that load in IHMSA. I use Unique in everything from .38 special to .44 magnum to 12 gauge shotgun. Must be 6lbs of 231/HP38 in the cabinet and probably 3lbs of Unique. Either one will suit your needs.

[derek45]

I like and use both.

If I had to pick one, it'd probably be win231/hp38

[Conditor22]

I started reloading with Unique & have unique loads for many of my firearms (never liked the way it metered)

Lately, I've been drawn to win231/hp38 and 2400

[derek45]

178gr NOE KEITH

4” GP100

5.5 unique 863fps
6.0 unique 943fps
———————————-
5.5 win231 889
6.0 win231 953
—————————

https://i.imgur.com/9bQnRJL.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/aBvzfEf.jpg

[dogrunner]

Ah heck, shoot a blue gun and you'll never notice the soot.

[gwpercle]

I find Unique to be a lot more versatile and have used it extensively over the last 50 years .
It's the powder that I would choose ... if I could have only one powder to reload everything with .

If you can't charge cases with Unique ...get a Lyman 55 , set it up correctly and learn to hold your mouth right ...that's the secrete.
Gary

[wwmartin]

The smoke from 231 smells better in my opinion . Not as versatile as Unique for rifles but smells beer to my nose.
I'm still trying to use up 2 five pound cans of SR-4756.
Bill

[LeonardC]

When I was younger I mainly loaded W231 into autos, .45acp & 9mm, and Unique into revolvers. I like both powders and found good loads in my guns.

I read an article by John Taffin saying he was loading a lot of .44 Mag. using W231 in light loads. I was trying to find a light load for the Wife to shoot in her 329, so looked up some W231 data and keep W231 .44 mag. loads (kind of a loud pop instead of a boom) for her on the shelf. I have had an 8# keg of W231 for many years and I'm now working on using it up in different guns. I still load and shoot a lot of Unique.

[cp1969]

When I was younger I mainly loaded W231 into autos, .45acp & 9mm, and Unique into revolvers. I like both powders and found good loads in my guns.

I read an article by John Taffin saying he was loading a lot of .44 Mag. using W231 in light loads. I was trying to find a light load for the Wife to shoot in her 329, so looked up some W231 data and keep W231 .44 mag. loads (kind of a loud pop instead of a boom) for her on the shelf. I have had an 8# keg of W231 for many years and I'm now working on using it up in different guns. I still load and shoot a lot of Unique.

The only unexplained overload I've ever had was with WW231 in a 'pop gun' 44 mag, loaded on a Dillon 550. I disassembled all the remaining rounds, expecting to find an empty case but there wasn't one. Luckily it was fired in a Redhawk; the brass had to be pounded out of the cylinder with a hammer and punch.

[onelight]

I like them both. I started using 231 in my progressives cause it metered a bit better.
But Unique has so much load data available and it flows well in my Lee turret press so I have gone back to it.
And would be fine with 231 on my progressive but use BE-86 it's a bit slower than 231 and is easier to find at my supplier .

[gpidaho]

I'm pretty fond of Hp 38 and Unique. I just bought an eight pound jug of HP 38 (that should last a while) and can use it in every pistol and revolver I load, 32ACP to 45 Colt. I also use Unique in a lot of handgun calibers but also use it in my rifle loads. If I were to be limited to just one powder from here on, I'd opt for Unique. Gp

[rking22]

I use both, 231 meters better so I use it in the 380 and 32L generally. Unique has more data for rifle loads and is more useful to me across the board. I keep it in 8 lb increments for shotgun and 44special, so it’s always on hand. 231 I but when it’s on sale, still shooting from a 2 1/2 lb (I think) can I don’t even remember buying!
If only one powder, unique would be way up the list, 231 not even on the list.

[RJM52]

derek...if that SOOT was caused by Unique I can only say this is my 50th year loading both cast and jacketed bullets with it and none of my guns EVER looked like that... I crimp my loads with Unique the same as I would with H110 and never get more than a film of powder on the gun. And the harder Unique is pushed the less soot there is...

To the original question, I can use Unique for everything from .22 Jet to .500 S&W and .223 to .405 Winchester...

Have used barrels of 231/HP-38 when I was a commercial loader as it was less expensive per round than Unique, metered more accurately and the loads performed well.

But Unique has a versatility that no other powder has...which is why whoever formulated it called it Unique....

Bob

[derek45]

derek...if that SOOT was caused by Unique I can only say this is my 50th year loading both cast and jacketed bullets with it and none of my guns EVER looked like that... I crimp my loads with Unique the same as I would with H110 and never get more than a film of powder on the gun. And the harder Unique is pushed the less soot there is...

To the original question, I can use Unique for everything from .22 Jet to .500 S&W and .223 to .405 Winchester...

Have used barrels of 231/HP-38 when I was a commercial loader as it was less expensive per round than Unique, metered more accurately and the loads performed well.

But Unique has a versatility that no other powder has...which is why whoever formulated it called it Unique....

Bob

All my revolver loads get a firm roll crimp.

I bought that GP100 about a year ago, it's a new 7 shot.

I figured I'd break her in hard and fast, and shot the hell out of it.

It shoots good, and unique cleans up easily


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Umk68uyVxtA

[BBMF1]

G'day from Downunder[smilie=s:

G'day All , I use both powders but in the last few years I mostly use WW 231 in my .45 colt rifle & revolver , my .357 contender& encores , my .327 rifle & revolver and in my .32 magnum contender , I find it meters great with little to no variation using Lee Pro powder measures on my Ponsness Warren P 200 press .

Regards Paul :smile:

[poppy42]

First off HP-38 and win 231 are the exact same powder. The only difference is the container they put it in at the manufacturing plant. They come out of the exact same vat! I use both, which ever one I can get. I use them in 9 mm 38 special and 9 x 18 Makarov. As for unique it is literally one of the oldest smokeless powder’s. If I could only get one powder ever it would be unique! In my opinion it is the most versatile powder there is! You can use it for shotguns, pistols, and rifles. I have used it extensively in all the above mentioned calipers in addition to loading it in 30-06. There are many many many more calibers that it’s applicable to. Hope this helps

[VariableRecall]

First off HP-38 and win 231 are the exact same powder. The only difference is the container they put it in at the manufacturing plant. They come out of the exact same vat! I use both, which ever one I can get. I use them in 9 mm 38 special and 9 x 18 Makarov. As for unique it is literally one of the oldest smokeless powder’s. If I could only get one powder ever it would be unique! In my opinion it is the most versatile powder there is! You can use it for shotguns, pistols, and rifles. I have used it extensively in all the above mentioned calipers in addition to loading it in 30-06. There are many many many more calibers that it’s applicable to. Hope this helps

Thank you very much for all of your info! I'll be sure to hunt down some Unique and try that out in the future.
Glad to know that Win231 was a fine choice for the calibers that we are using!

[badguybuster]

Unique seems to be just about the most useful powder (for me) that ive ever tried. It works for so many different calibers, both pistol and rifle

[doulos]

Ive only used w231 in.45Acp and .38special. I liked it.
Ive shot Unique since I started reloading. I like many who posted find Unique the most useful powder Ive ever used. I like it more than 231. It has more applications for me.
I would choose it If I had to choose just one powder.

[jonp]

I have both 231/HP38 and Unique on my shelf and use the Unique far more. In fact, I sold 3lbs of 231 to a member here for what i paid as it was just collecting dust just keeping an opend lb jar.. For target loads I pretty much stick to Promo but will use others for kicks once in a while. I just loaded some 10mm up with Bullseye which is another one I don't use for much.

Like others here I think, I tend to stick to a few but have a bunch of different on my shelf. Universal, Titegroup, 231, Bullseye and others I have but don't use.

[Divil]

Unique for me. Right now I scoop and weigh and Unique is easier to work with. Unique is also the more versatile of the two in my experience. Right now Unique has working good loads in .32 acp, 9x19 and .38 Special that I am using.

However w231 meters better and if I get a powder dropper it will probably be stuffed withW231 or Vihtavuori. As I wish to have more production volume in 9x19, W231 is an excellent choice.

I may stop reloading.32 later this year but Unique will always have a home in my .38 Special cases. I could see the W231 outshining the Unique in 9x19.

In .357 I am liking W572 and W244 but I am just a relative noob in that caliber.

[rbuck351]

I have unique but have almost quit using it in favor of 231 or universal clays. I use either of these for 9mm, 7,62x25, 38spl and 45acp. Both go through all of my powder measures better than unique. I use unique in what little shotgun ammo I load.

[stubshaft]

I use both but use unique in most of my cast rifle loads and some shotgun. It was designed to be used in all guns and that's what I do with it.

[wbbh]

I used to love W-231 for loading .45 ACP, but then I discovered VV N-310 so I voted for Unique, it's handy for .32 H&R Magnum, .45 Colt and .44 Special.

[recumbent]

I prefer 231. I use it in 38 spl, 357 mag, 45acp, 9mm luger, 327 fed mag.

[rintinglen]

I use WW-231 in just about every handgun cartridge I load. From 32 ACP to 45 Colt I have good loads. I became a fan back in the late 80's early 90's when Bullseye and Unique suddenly became scarce in my neck of the woods, but Winchester powders were common as dirt. I do like Unique in the 44 Special and 45 Colt and try to keep it on hand, but 231 meters better and gives better accuracy in the cartridges I shoot the most--9mm and 38 Spl.
That said, there is about 12 pounds of 231 in my powder magazine, and 6 or seven pounds of Unique.

[nockhunter]

I started reloading with W231, so I just kept going with it. I use 3 powder mostly, W231/HP-38, Bluedot, W296/H110. The W231 is for all light loads/factory loads 38sp, 9mm, 45acp 44sp, 32h&r, etc. I like the Bluedot for the upper end mag loads (80-90%), and the W296/H110 for full power mag loads. I use other powders but those 3 are my main go to powders, and seem to cover most of my needs.

Mike

[AviatorTroy]

I like W231 in pistols, but my main use for Unique is reduced loads in rifles, 10 grains at a time. To my knowledge you cannot do reduced rifle loads with anything but Bullseye, Unique, or 2400.

[dougader]

I use/have used W231 in 25 auto, 32 H&R mag, 380 auto, 9mm, 38 Spl, 41 mag, 44 Spl/Mag, 45 auto, 45 Colt, and 480 Ruger. I have used 1 pound of Unique and thought it was fairly dirty so didn't buy more. I liked the W231 better.

For powders closer to Unique I use VV 3n37, Universal.. slower still = Blue Dot, AA7, Longshot.

[Petrol & Powder]

I don't know how many pounds of WW231 [HP-38] I've burned over the years but it is probably more than any other powder I've used.

Unique is a useful powder to have on hand due to the many applications that is is suitable for. However, it seems to like being close to the upper limits of pressure for a cartridge(not a huge factor) and it doesn't always meter well (which can be a deal breaker in some progressive presses).

Due to some unexplained geographical oddity, Bullseye was hard to come by in my early reloading days but WW231 was always available and cheap. So, 231 became my "go-to" pistol powder. That turned out well for me, YMMV.

I probably burned more 231 in 38 Special cases than all the other powders on my shelf put together. It is also a favorite in 45ACP for me.
In the last few years, I transitioned my 38 Special loads to Bullseye but there will always be a few pounds of 231 on my shelf.

During the component shortages of the Obama years, I never ran out of 231 but I did try some other powders for handgun loads. When that shortage was over, I stocked up on 231, Bullseye, WSF, WST, etc. It seems the faster powders are the first to get scarce.

[mike4045]

I mostly use w231 for 45acp, 38spl. It always worked for me, a little on the dirty side but reliable.

[GARD72977]

If you can't charge cases with Unique ...get a Lyman 55 , set it up correctly and learn to hold your mouth right ...that's the secrete.
Gary[/QUOTE]

I can't get UNIQUE to meter for rifle. I use a dipper or a RCBS Chargmaster.

[Kosh75287]

Unique, hands down. I've probably burned 5 to 8 pounds of W231/HP38 through the years. It works fine, burns clean, meters well, but it's not at versatile as Unique. When I obtain a bottle of W231/HP38 through trade or inheritance, I use it up and never think about replacing it. It is too fast-burning to deliver max performance in .357 Mag and heavy .45 Colt, rounds which I shoot extensively.
Unique won't get quite the maximum performance of which the two rounds are capable, either, but it gets a lot closer than W231. It isn't quite as clean-burning, but it's clean enough, especially in near-max loads. Alliant Herco, which is nearly as versatile as Unique, but slower burning, brings out more of the ballistic potential of these two rounds (and many others), but still works quite well in smaller cases, also.
I don't reload for shotgun, but I know that Unique is well-established in this application. I don't know whether the same is true of W231.
I don't OFTEN reload very light loads in a rifle, but Unique would be a good choice for it. In the past, I used 2400 and Red Dot with never less than adequate results. I would expect Unique, which is between the other two in burning rate, to work just fine.

[saturn]

I use them both. W231 for 9mm and unique for just about every thing else. I have many more powders on the shelf but these 2 get the most use.
I probably use more unique simply because it requires more volume per case loaded than does the W231. (45/70-12gr) (45 colt 8gr)(9mm 3.7gr)

[Winger Ed.]

I'm a big Unique guy for .38, 9mm, and .45ACP.
For 9mm & .45ACP- a double charge will overflow the case, so you have to work at it to hurt yourself.

It's cheaper than 231, (until recently) plentiful, and always did a good job for me.

[JoeJames]

I'm a big Unique guy for .38, 9mm, and .45ACP.
For 9mm & .45ACP- a double charge will overflow the case, so you have to work at it to hurt yourself.

It's cheaper than 231, (until recently) plentiful, and always did a good job for me.By habit I have used Bullseye and Unique. Bullseye for 32S&W Long and 38 Special, and Unique for 44 Special and for 44 Magnum reduced loads. I have experimented with Win 231, with all three but just seemed to me Bullseye and Unique fit the bill better. But I was at a larger town about 3 weeks ago and checked the main gun shop there. They did not have either Bullseye or Unique, but they had HP-38. I was getting a tad low; so I got a pound of HP-38 thinking to myself that if I remembered right it was just the same as some rather useful pistol powder. I reckon I am getting old, because it was not until I got home, and looked in some of my manuals that I realized it was the same as Win 231. I was quite relieved. I had tested Win 231 in all three calibers and it was pretty good.

[robertbank]

WE don't get many Alliant powders up here as a rule. I save my Unique for my 45 Colt loads. I use 231 almost exclusively in 9MM when shooting lead bullets. I switch to Titegroup or CFE Pistol in the 9MM when i use plated or jacketed bullets. I have about 20lbs of HP38 sitting on my shelf so it will do service in my practice rounds for revolver as well. For matches I revert to Clays in 38spl. My 45acp shooting is done with 231 and Bullseye exclusively.

Both are good powders .

Take Care

Bob

[Rodfac]

Given a choice, I'd go with 231 as it's more easily metered in small cases/charge weights, where I have trouble with Unique when trying to meter charges of 4.5 grains or less. There, I've found that 231 (or HP38) will give me better consistency even with charges down as low as 2.0 grains. Conversely, 231 works just as well as Unique in charges up 7.5 grains in the larger handgun calibers. Best Regards, Rod

[375supermag]

Hi...
I chose Unique.
I have loaded big bore handgun rounds with it for decades.
I only buy the 4lb jugs when there aren't 8lb jugs available.
I wouldn't want to hazard a guess on how many pounds of Unique I have used over the decades but it is a considerable amount.
I use it in ..41Magnum, .44Spl, .44Magnum and .45Colt with cast bullets.
Use very little 231 or HP38.
Do use copious amounts of Bullseye in .45ACP, .45AutoRim and .38Spl. and Blue Dot in .357Magnum along with 2400 and 296/H110 for high velocity loadings in the magnum handguns.

Have a reserve supply of Red Dot and Herco for big bore handgun loads if I ever run out of Unique.

[Jack Stanley]

Unique I've used it in many different applications and it's never let me down . It may not be the best for everything but it has worked in everything I've tried it in .

I've recently been using a surplus powder called SMP231 and I don't know it's relation to Winchester 231 or even if it's kin . But , it's working well in real light cast loads on an aught six .

Jack

[BBMF1]

G'day from Downunder[smilie=s:

G'day All , I like both but mostly use WW 231 as it measures more consistantly through my powder measures , it does my .45acp , .45 Colt , .32mag and .327 Fedral perfectly.

Regards Paul. :smile:

[TNsailorman]

Right now, it is the powder you can find; if you can find it at all. I for one am not going to pay the scalper prices being charged by people who have powder right now. For the time being, I have switched to air rifles, pistols and will continue until the prices come back to normal. james

[BamaNapper]

A decent portion of my shooting is with Unique. Mostly 44, 444, 45 Colt. It also works for 9mm and 38. It's not always my favorite, but I'll happily shoot it when I've got it. It might sound strange, but I've never even tried 231.

When powder started getting scarce last year I decided to order some of the BR-5 from Bartlett. I think I put 12# on the shelf as a just in case. It is supposed to be a Unique clone, and from what I've shot so far, that appears to be the case. I know some folks aren't too keen on using the off-brand powders but when things got scarce I decided that off-brand was far better than nothing at all. I see he's got it listed at $20 a pound, a little higher than last year but not stupid. Unique shoots in everything so it's a good just-in-case powder.

[1006]

w231 for me. Cleaner for me. I prefer Universal Clays to Unique. Again, because it is cleaner in any pistol caliber that I load.

[Pete44mag]

I've used both and I tend towards ww231. I think it meters better and burns cleaner. Started loading with ww231 and worked up most of my loads with it.

[jaysouth]

WW 231 for standard pressure .45, .38 and 9mm.

I gave up Unique and went to AA 7 or AA 9 for cast rifle and magnum pistol. Both meter much better and burn cleaner.

[VariableRecall]

WW 231 for standard pressure .45, .38 and 9mm.

I gave up Unique and went to AA 7 or AA 9 for cast rifle and magnum pistol. Both meter much better and burn cleaner.

Would Unique work well in a Lee PPM? I know it's shaped differently, but that's the powder measure that I have.

[onelight]

I like Lee tools and use Lee presses , dies and powder measure the pro auto disk I have 4 and 1 auto drum .
The PPM for me was a throw and trickle only measure , I was never satisfied with the results I got with the powders I used . When I got it I already had a Lyman 55 and a RCBS bench mount measures so I did not spend much time messing with it to try to get satisfactory results . All that said there are a lot of people that use them that may have some good suggestions on powders that work well in it and or some modifications that might help it work better. But my experience following the directions that came with it I would weigh and trickle.

[krems]

WW231 for me. Meters better, chronographs better, more consistent. As long as I keep velocities/pressure reasonable for the caliber it doesn’t lead up the bore. I have used it in calibers from .38 spl all the way up to .500 Linebaugh. WW231 and IMR 4756 are the 2 powders I use the most.

[MostlyLeverGuns]

I use HP38(231) in 38 spl, 45 ACP, 40S&W, 357, 45 Colt, 44 spl, 9mm, plain base cast in the 32 spcl, starting to use TiteGroup in some. I've tried Unique, got a lb on the shelf but use 4227, Universal, 5744, some old HS7 in all the places I read about Unique being wonderful. Just don't like the way it measures, results were never Special for me. Oh, I tried it in Lee Disc and Perfect Measures, Lee Dippers, RCBS Uniflow, and some others, just doesn't measure well.

[OutHuntn84]

Unique all the way. I can load every single pistol I own with it and get great results.

[Dunross]

I like both powders and use them both.

But, if I could only have just one then it would be Unique.

Doesn't meter as well as 231, but can be used to load more cartridges over a wider range than any other powder I am aware of.

[zarrinvz24]

I have a large stock of 231 but I've heard WSF can be used grain for grain in place of unique using unique load data. I'm looking into this, as WSF meters much more smoothly than Unique does.

[Norske]

I have Bullseye, 231, AA5, Unique, 5744, 7227, and more that can be used in handgun loads. But I also reload 20gauge, and Unique is the most versatile powder of all for that. I always considered 231 to be a better metering choice than Bullseye, whose charge weights are more similar to 231 than Unique's.

[Beaverhunter2]

Hp-38 in stock at PV right now.

[TNsailorman]

I just got off the web site for PV and HP-38 says out of stock for both 1# and 8# size.

[Rodfac]

Well both are very useful in my usual loading: (90% of all handgun calibers at less than 1000 fps with standard bullet weight for caliber). And 231 meters 100% better with equally easy ignition even in spacious cases: .45 Colt & .44 Magnum, so 231 is my #1 choice...and it also may be a bit more accurate in most loads for me...maybe due to uneven measuring with Unique?...Lastly, 231 is more economical to use by weight...maybe 10%? All that notwithstanding, my experience with Unique goes all the way back to 1964....and I have 16 lbs. of it down in the powder magazine as we speak. YMMv Rod

[jonp]

I cannot comment on unique as it is not on my shelf. Win 231 is the same as hp-38 according to hodgdon. I have had good luck with it in 38spl. It was ok in 45acp.
One of my 38 loads is 4gr under a 158gr rn lee tumble lube boolit. It does well.
Ken

10 months later and I still can't get over the " unique is not on my shelf" comment. If you can't load it with Unique then you have a serious problem on your hands.

I have several 8lb kegs of it on hands at all times because I know it will work in anything if shtf

[veeman]

Hmm. I use very little Unique. I have some, under a lb now, but I've found other powder that work much better, and cleaner. My favorite right now would have to be Winchesters WST.

[robertbank]

10 months later and I still can't get over the " unique is not on my shelf" comment. If you can't load it with Unique then you have a serious problem on your hands.

I have several 8lb kegs of it on hands at all times because I know it will work in anything if shtf

Alliant powders are rarer than hens teeth on this area of N.A. most of the time. I do have about 3lbs on hand but don't often grab for it. I do like it in 45Colt.

Take Care

Bob

[smkummer]

I went though a period of trying to simplify my powders maybe 30 years ago when pursuing my career. As stated, unique could be used for most all handgun loads and some shotgun. Then once established, my powder choices included, bullseye, 231, 700X, unique, 2400 and H110. Unique does have its spot for 45 colt, plus P 38 and lead bullet reduce 357. 231 has its spot for more standard handgun cartridges.
For the near future, we are all going to have to make due until this current situation works itself out.

[veeman]

Woot! Just scored a 4lb can of WST, 2 1lb cans of IMR 4831, and a 1lb can of Tru Blue from Powder Valley. Got a 4lb can of Reloader 7 last week. I put what I am looking for on my favorites and check them couple times a day. Today is my lucky day. I now return you to you Unique / 231 thread, sorry to interrupt, but I got excited.

[jonp]

Hmm. I use very little Unique. I have some, under a lb now, but I've found other powder that work much better, and cleaner. My favorite right now would have to be Winchesters WST.

Other powders work better in different applications but will they work in everything Unique will across the board?

[veeman]

Other powders work better in different applications but will they work in everything Unique will across the board?

Not saying Unique isn't good, just saying, FOR ME, with all the calibers I shoot, Unique was beat out by something else in all of them. Been close a few times, but not quite the best.

[Hickok]

I use Unique, mainly because I can find it more easily in stores.

[Noah Zark]

I use both W231/HP38 and Unique in various handgun cartridges from 32ACP, 327 Federal, 380 ACP, 9x19, 38 Super, to 44 Spl, 45 ACP, 455 Webley and 45 Colt.

I also use Unique in 30-30, 30-40, 38-55, 405 Win, 45-70, and 50-95 in charges from 10gr to 14gr. They are parabolic in trjectory, but are generally exceptionally accurate. The 38-55 load of 12gr under a .380 dia 250-260 cast boolit (I use Moyers) produces groups of 1.5" and less @ 100 yds out of my Marlin and Cimarron leverguns using the thinwall short Starline cases.

Noah

[Cosmic_Charlie]

Tried some 231 today in 44 spl. 5.3 grains under a 200 grain boolit;292783 Once in a blue moon I can shoot that well.

[SSGOldfart]

I use both and like Unique for most loads,I'm not giving up Red Dot for either:Fire:

[Streetwalker]

I love 10.5 gr. of Unique for it's ability to shoot small, round groups with cast bullets in the .303 British cartridge..in fact, it does just that in all the other military surplus rifles I own, regardless of caliber. Also, I like to shoot the clay games with the 20 gauge and Unique under 3/4 oz. of #9 shot absolutely crushes skeet targets.

[HWooldridge]

I have always preferred 231 over Unique - cleaner and more consistent, but I primarily use it for pistol cartridges.

[Kosh75287]

I'M precisely the opposite. I'll USE W231 if I get it as a gift or something, but I never buy any more. I have an unopened pound sitting on my reloading shelf, that I'D swap for an unopened pound of Unique, in a heartbeat.

[charlie b]

I prefer 231 for my pistol loads. I've also gone to 244 for some of them. I used to like AA#5 but it has not been available to me much of the time. When I can, I prefer powders that go through the measure better.

[Harter66]

Don't know if I dropped my 2¢ .
231 just hasn't been readily available to me .
The 15# keg of Unique Dad gave me is almost gone . It's only taken me 20 yr . :)

I bought an 8# of Unique just after the 08' elections. Dad brought me a second owner sealed 8# in 12' and left me another with about 250 gr out of it . So I don't think I'll ever buy any again .

Little tip on Unique after loading many 38 , 38+P , 357 , ,45 Colts, 45 ACP , 380 , 9mm , under 15kpsi it is sooty , about 15 kpsi it cleans with just a flake or 4 left . By 16-18 it's as clean as any other . There is listed data from 8-40 kpsi for it from reputable print sources .

[sandog]

I haven't seen any Unique for sale for a good 10 years. Stores here seem to have W231/W244, Universal, HS-6 and several of the Accurate powders, A#5, A#7 and A#9. Once in a while they get in some Lil'Gun or W296 too.

I got a 4 lb. jug of Universal about 8 years ago and like it. Practically the same burning rate as Unique, and burns cleaner with the lighter loads.
As Harter66 said, Unique burns more completely at higher pressures, not so much with low pressure. (HS-6 is another one like that, burns cleanly and completely close to max).
Universal doesn't seem to have that trait. If I had to choose between Universal and Unique, I'd choose Universal every time.

[HWooldridge]

It's a different powder altogether but Clays is pretty good in light loads - burns very clean and consistent.

[44 flattop]

I love Unique and use it in a myriad of calibers between .38 Special and .45-70. I shoot a lot and usually burn through around 12 pounds each year - sometimes more. It does everything I need outside of full power hunting loads. It's my go-to for 20 gauge shotshells, too.

[Tall]

I stocked up on Unique when it looked like there was going to be a President Dukakis. I bought all the Hercules Unique that I could. Turns out it was a good decision, and nearly a lifetime supply. 231 is OK and I didn't vote in the poll, because I load some loads with 231. Unique tends to be messy until you get to its sweet spot then it burns clean.

Yesterday I shot some 148 grain wadcutters behind 4.2 grains of Unique - perfectly clean and very accurate.

[6string]

Unique is, well as the name says, Unique! It does at a faster burn rate for pistols and revolvers, what SR4759 does for rifles. And, both of those are in their own league.
Unique has never failed to deliver an accuracy load one way or another with cast bullets in any revolver cartridge I've ever tried.
I have, maybe, a pound of Unique left. :(

231, to me, is maybe better to be compared with other faster powders like Bullseye or 700x.

Now, between the two, I wish we could get back DuPont's 5066!

[45DUDE]

Unique by a nose. I've been using both since the late 80's. Unique should be compared VN 350-- <Pistol powers only.> I started with 231 because you get a lot more shots from a pound of powder. 231 is cleaner than Unique so all have ups and downs. I'm just glad to have some powder.

[Targa]

Win 231

317082

[BrianL]

I was an avid user of Unique until you could not get it anymore so I switched to Universal. I stashed the last of my Unique for 38 special.
I have been using 231 for .380. 9mm, and 45 ACP for the last few years because Running's always has it in stock.

[BoBSavage]

Another unfortunate incident from a recent CAS shooter. Blew up both 45 Colt SAA revolvers due to double charges of W231.
https://forums.sassnet.com/index.php?/topic/352507-why-i-miss-trail-boss/

Unique will prevent an overcharge from being unseen.

BTW

Unique has been manufactured since 1900. First by Laflin & Rand, then by Dupont, then Hercules, then Aliant.
https://www.castpics.net/subsite2/GeneralReference/L&R-Smokeless.pdf

[popper]

Using Unique will NOT automatically detect double or overcharge.

[BoBSavage]

Using Unique will NOT automatically detect double or overcharge.

re-read what I said

[AlaskaMike]

I use them both, but for different purposes.

Unique, being "fluffy" I use quite a bit for low velocity bottleneck rifle cartridges. Also for midrange .454 Casull carbine loads. In the longer barrels and closed breaches of carbines and rifles, Unique cleans up fine.

For most pistol and revolver loads I'll use 231 over Unique every time.

[dverna]

Another unfortunate incident from a recent CAS shooter. Blew up both 45 Colt SAA revolvers due to double charges of W231.
https://forums.sassnet.com/index.php?/topic/352507-why-i-miss-trail-boss/

Unique will prevent an overcharge from being unseen.

BTW

Unique has been manufactured since 1900. First by Laflin & Rand, then by Dupont, then Hercules, then Aliant.
https://www.castpics.net/subsite2/GeneralReference/L&R-Smokeless.pdf

Not unfortunate.

Some people should not reload.

[MT Gianni]

I have nearly given up on Winchester powders. 231 works well but whenever I find a powder that does all I want, that is a WW powder, they soon drop it. I have no trust that they will be there year after year.

[cpaspr]

I like Unique for .38 & .44 Specials, for .45ACP, and for mousefart loads in a .30-30 behind a 110gr cast boolit.

[hawkeye1]

I really like them both. They are so versatile. I started out years ago with W231. Then come up wit some AA7. I bought a 8 pound jug of AA5, and use it a lot. Unique is almost always suitable. I try to keep all four on the shelf and use them all. If I chose just one, 231.

[pdgoutdoors]

I use 231/HP38 mainly because I cannot find Unique for the life of me, or if I do its almost 50 bucks a pound.

[35 Rem]

I can't chose because for my uses they do a different job. I think of WW231 for real light loads in handguns. When I go to Unique I'm usually going for heavier loads. I love 231 for the 45 Colt because I can use a bit less than 7 grains and attain the thrifty 1,000 shots per pound of powder goal I like.

I have an 8lb can of WW231 I've been shooting out of for years and it seems to have no bottom. My Unique supply shrinks much faster for some reason.

[gloob]

^
And for these light loads, the charge of W231 is just a tiny speck in the bottom of the case. So even though it flows great in a meter, it doesn't mean the charge is any more accurate. This is one of the first powders I started with. But half a bottle sits on a shelf and hasn't been used in 10 years. There are fluffier flake powders that will do light loads cleanly and make double charges impossible.

[Tall]

Not unfortunate.

Some people should not reload.

Been using W231 for 45 years. Winchester has not dropped it.

[chriskendziora]

I use 231/HP38 mainly because I cannot find Unique for the life of me, or if I do its almost 50 bucks a pound.Get used too it most of the distributors are reporting price increases for 2024..

Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk

[Montanaguy]

I'm considering giving up use of 231 in my revolvers due to the amount of powder residue left in the barrels and chambers. Some of the residue is light colored and some is grey. I can shake it out of the cylinder and blow it out the barrel. I'm using fresh powder, not long-stored. Loads are mid-range in .327 Mag, .357, and .44 spl. Anyone else noticing or experiencing this?

[Dom]

If I had to choose between WW-231 & Unique it would be Unique every time. Unique is far more versatile than 231. Unique will handle the light loads & some fairly heavy loads. 231 for sure has a niche, Unique just has more niches.

[justindad]

I’m hoping W231 will be fast enough to get me a good chamber seal in a .45 Colt 1873 - I have on good authority Unique will not serve that purpose. I loaded W231 for the first time yesterday. It’s been a few years since I loaded Unique. Neither meter well, and I must trickle charge for precise load work ups. Both are in the form of flakes from my powder cans. Anyone who thinks these meter well has not used anything from Ramshot/Accurate. I spoiled myself (as far as metering is concerned) by going with True Blue & Enforcer early on.

[Tall]

W231 is great in 45 Colt - my favorite powder behind a 255 grain .454" SWC.

I loaded some 32 WCF today with 3.7 grains of W231 behind a 100 grain powder coated SWC. It seems like very little powder compared to how much Unique I have to use.

[Low Budget Shooter]

I duplicated the velocity of 45 Auto Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel with 5.3 gr W231 and 5.8 gr Unique under 452374 bullet.

[doc watson]

Pretty much what ever I can get, currently.

[Tall]

I have nearly given up on Winchester powders. 231 works well but whenever I find a powder that does all I want, that is a WW powder, they soon drop it. I have no trust that they will be there year after year.

In my opinion W231 is the perfect powder for 45 Colt behind a 255 grain lead SWC. I've been buying it for something like 45 years. I don't see any shortage around here.

[oldhenry]

HP-38/231. I use it for .38 spec., 9mm, most .44 spec., .45 ACP & mid-range .45 Colt. Unique is Ok, but HP-38/231 seems to burn cleaner & is more available in my general area.

[AK Islander]

Unique gets my vote, just because it is more versatile. I load with both powders. Unique can be used for almost anything in a pinch. On my bench Win 231 is used for handgun cartridges only.