Powder Question

[plus1hdcp]

What have you found to be the "cleanest" powder to use? I am loading my cast for 9mm, 38/357, and 40 S&W with HP38 and HS6. No complaints with my groupings but would like to reduce the residual powder/smoke.

[2ndAmendmentNut]

I do believe Universal is the powder you are looking for.

[AJ Peacock]

I've found the Vihta-Vouri powders to be the cleanest overall. For light cast loads in the 38/357 chamberings, I use VV N-320. From what I've read, it has something to do with the type of cellulose that is used in creating the powder. Cheaper types of cellulose will cause more soot.

HTH,

AJ

[felix]

That is correct, AJ. Other powders can be just as clean, but not at a wide pressure range like for the VV's. Also, they are the most consistent between lots by far. This would be because of the feed lots they obtain, one of which would be cellulose. Maybe they use lab grade components by default, and, if so, the gunpowder batches made would have a chance to be extremely consistent when mixed under very controlled conditions. As usual, cost versus performance. ... felix

[plus1hdcp]

Great feedback guys. I am down to about 2 pounds left and time to start looking for more prior to cracking open the last jug. I will give a report back once the change is made.

[Shiloh]

I use Bullseye and it is dirty as heck, especially combined with alox TL. But it sure is economical and delivers accurate, consistent loads in .45 ACP and .38 wadcutters.

Shiloh

[ETG]

I shoot 2400 - 10 rounds - 500 rounds, a couple swabs of the brush and you can't tell it from a new barrel. I don't bother looking down the barrel while I'm at the range so I can't offer any advice if there might be a little soot in the barrel while reloading.

[fredj338]

For target loads, I have found nothing better than WST. For full power loads, WSF meters well & also burns pretty clean. SMoke, a lot of that has to do w/ your lube choice.

[Bullshop]

Concur with the wst and wsf. WST is what I use for subsonic loads. It acts like clean burning bullseye.
One of my favorite sub loads uses .7gn wst with a modified Lyman 22 cal mold made into a 50gn PBRN. From my 22 ccm it is close to silent yet more powerfull than any 22 cal air gun made. It shoots through auto body metal quite nicely. At .7 gn per shot that yealds 10,000 shots per pound of powder.
BIC/BS