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