Gun Powder Tips for Reloaders

Gun powder is an essential ingredient in reloading...some tips on how to look after it

July 2006

TIP 1.

Gun powder deteriorates over time. Ten years used to be the shelf life given to government powders. The average shooter/reloader buys a few tins of powder and uses that within a year or two.

The problem is when you buy one tin of powder to try out. You end up not using that particular powder often enough because it doesn't suit your shooting needs at the time. It gets stored in the cupboard somewhere.

So what to do? Consider trading that partly used tin of gun powder for another type of gun powder you really need by asking members of your local gun club, reloading friends, etc. You are bound to find a shooter/reloader who wants to trade.


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TIP 2.

Modern gun powder is so well made that deterioration under proper storage conditions is unlikely to happen - however, never assume this is the case. Here is how to check if gun powder is no longer usable:

  • Smell the gun powder. If it has a strong, foul smelling acidic odour then don't use it
  • Check how the powder has been stored - if exposed to extreme heat its likely to go off much more quickly - so always store gun powder in a cool, dry place



TIP 3.

When determining the best place to store gun powder, remember this rule - keep it away from direct sunlight or in any place close to heat like electrical equipment, furnaces, hot water heaters, etc.

Also, avoid areas where electrical and mechanical equipment is operating.



Shooting/Hunting Websites

I have about 12000+ Shooting/Hunting related websites on file. Each month I will reveal 2 sites for you to explore. There are some sites you know, but there are also many good ones that I never knew existed! Enjoy.

Shooting/Hunting sites of the month...

Symbol http://www.alliantpowder.com

This name needs no introduction to reloaders worldwide - excellent website!

Symbol http://www.hodgdon.com/

Lots of reloading data for all popular calibers using Hodgdon powders - a must visit website!


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