IMR 3031 Question

[azcoyhunter]

I have bought 2 pounds of IMR 3031

I use it in my 30/30 and my 7X57 Mauser

I wanted a powder that could be used in both rifles

Is there a better choice?

I like the idea of using one powder for multiple calibers.

Clint

[Blackwater]

Azcoy, I like the idea too, and have tried that, but the rifles haven't often cooperated. I like accuracy better, and made the indicated "sacrifices." I probably have 30 partial cans of powder that I've used over the years trying to find the "ultimate" load for my guns. When I hit paydirt, I just leave the remnants for subsequent efforts. Having a good stash of powder on hand isn't a BAD thing, after all. I've done a lot worse.

[TedH]

I'll agree with what Blackwater said, but offer another suggestion for your consideration. The best powder for my 30-30 has been Reloder15. While it may not be optimum in the 7X57, it should be pretty respectable. Can't beat it in the 30-30.

[Buckshot]

................IMR3031 is a good compromise and the compromise is leaning in the 7mm's direction. With it's larger case capacity and smaller bore it would benefit from a slower powder for 'optimum' performance. If you don't have to have the last FPS 3031 is fine.

I don't know the intended use for each but if it was for cast shooting I might have chosen 4198 instead. If a compromise powder were for FLGC slugs I might have gone with 3031 or 4064 after doing some load checking. As you can tell I'm kind of an old stick when it comes to powder 8)

I really don't know how the Accurate numbers or some of the Hogdens fit in, let alone Norma or V-V.

...............Buckshot

[Junior1942]

The biggest advantage of using one powder for several calibers is being able to justify buying it in bulk; thus saving money. Varget is my multi-caliber powder. I use it in 222 Rem, 7mm TCU, 7x57, 8x57, and cast 30-30. In fact, I have an old RCBS Uniflow measure permanently set on 25.5 grs Varget which I use in 222, 7mm TCU, and 30-30. Varget isn't the perfect powder for all 5 calibers, but it's close enough for me.

[felix]

Yep, Junior is just about right on the money. It is hard to beat a small stick powder having 4064 speed for most small to mid sized case applications. Comparing cost of the keg of powder should dictate which of the following can be substituted: RL15, Varget, 4064/4065,V-V140, and for full case apps: 748, or a slower burning lot of BLC2/846. ... felix