Reloading Powder Guide
Comprehensive guide to selecting and using reloading powders for precision shooting and hunting applications. Learn about powder characteristics, temperature sensitivity, and optimal cartridge pairings.
Understanding Powder Selection
Selecting the right powder is crucial for achieving optimal performance in your handloaded ammunition. Modern smokeless powders represent decades of research and development, offering unprecedented levels of consistency and temperature stability.
Key factors in powder selection include burn rate, temperature sensitivity, and load density. Premium powders like Hodgdon H4350 and Varget are popular in precision applications due to their consistent performance across temperature ranges.
Safety First
Always start with published load data and work up gradually. Never exceed maximum charges, and always verify you're using the correct powder for your application. Store powders in original containers in a cool, dry place.
Featured Powders
Hodgdon H4350
The gold standard for precision rifle cartridges, known for excellent temperature stability and consistent performance.
Medium
Extruded
Low
6.5mm, .308 Win
Varget
Versatile medium-burn powder with excellent lot-to-lot consistency and broad cartridge compatibility.
Medium
Extruded
Low
.223 Rem, .308 Win
Reloder 16
Temperature-stable powder optimized for magnum cartridges and heavy bullets in standard cases.
Medium-Slow
Extruded
Very Low
6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem Mag
Powder Categories
Precision Rifle Powders
Temperature-stable powders optimized for match-grade ammunition and precision shooting applications.
Explore Precision Rifle Powders
Hunting Powders
Versatile powders that maintain consistency across temperature ranges for reliable field performance.
Explore Hunting Powders
Tactical Powders
Consistent-burning powders suitable for high-volume loading and tactical applications.
Explore Tactical Powders
Magnum Powders
Slow-burning powders designed for magnum cartridges and extreme long range applications.
Explore Magnum PowdersPowder Storage Tips
Proper powder storage is crucial for maintaining consistency and safety:
- • Store in original containers only
- • Keep in a cool, dry place
- • Avoid temperature extremes
- • Check for signs of degradation
- • Follow local storage regulations