Hello,
I am searching for a suitable powder to replace H-110 as my primary magnum handgun powder for 357 Magnum. I am concerned about flame cutting, and potential for failure to light at low temperatures. does anyone have first hand experience with H-110 failing to light (or burning inconsistently) at low ambient temperatures?
I have had good accuracy and velocity results with h-110, including 1.5 inch groups at 25 yards with my 4 inch 686. my primary goal with a different powder would be to maintain accuracy, while secondary goals include avoiding flame cutting, reliable ignition, and possible use of standard pistol primers, as opposed to magnum primers. Im willing to sacrifice a little bit of velocity to achieve these goals.
My first natural idea was to try out 2400, because it seems to be the traditional choice for magnum handgun loads, has a reputation for good accuracy, and seems to fit my ticket perfectly. however, after 6 months of trying to locate even a single grain of 2400, I have come up empty handed.
as a result, I took a look through my Lyman manual, and came up with this list of powders that give similar charge weights and muzzle velocities to 2400.
AA#5
IMR-4227
Power Pistol
AA#9
Enforcer
N-110
Does anyone have experience with these powders in magnum cartridges? how was accuracy? did you use magnum primers? did you get advertised muzzle velocities from your manual of choice? what where your velocities, from what firearm?
Im looking to use lyman 358156, 358429, 125gr xpt, and the 158gr xtp.
Thanks!