Now that my can of H4198 is running low, I am seeing H4198 showing up at the local gun stores for $55 a pound, when it is in stock. This seems pretty rich for my blood.
I would like to find an alternative powder that works well (doesn't have to be optimum, but works well as far as ignition and position sensitivity) for my uses, which are:
7.5 x 53.5 Swiss (30-40 type loads0
308
7.62 x 54r
8mm Lebel
These are all somewhat similar in capacity, but it would be nice if I could stretch the use to:
7.62 x 39
45-70
577/450 (yes, I know, but black is even harder to get here)
I have been considering these powders:
Vihta Vuori N120
IMR 4227
Shooters World Buffalo Rifle (Lovex D060)
Accurate XMR 5744
Alliant 410
Vihta Vuori N130
Winchester 680
Norma N200
Accurate 1680
Vihta Vuori N133
Besides H4198 and IMR 4198
What I'd appreciate is steering me toward something less expensive. My first choice would be Buffalo Rifle, but even tho the local Scheel's carries Shooter's World powders, I haven't seen Buffalo Rifle. Also, I'd considered Vihta Vuori, but I don't see that around, either. The idea is, if I could get suggestions on powders others have used in similar cartridges, I could avoid buying a pound of this, a pound of that, and a pound of something else. I love retirement, but the budget is always something I must consider.
I'm looking for powders available in Wyoming, Colorado, and Montana, as I would drive and get it rather than pay hazmat -- I'd rather make a little trip out of it and I'm getting away from credit card purchases for this sort of stuff.
If anyone has some helpful suggestions on powders that would get me working without having to go thru 10 or so powders, trying to find an optimal load, I'd appreciate the help.
Thanks.