What is IMR 3031 generally used for ?

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If you want a fairly comprehensive list of calibers, you can find that on the Hodgdon reloading data page - in a roundabout way.

Go to http://www.hodgdonreloading.com/data/rifle.
In the "Step 1" column, select a caliber known to use 3031 (such as 30-30).
Go to "Step 4" and select IMR 3031.
Go back to "Step 1" and select the pull-down list - Now you will see all the calibers that Hodgdon has load data for IMR-3031.

Now, 3031 may not be the best powder for any of those calibers, but at least those are calibers for which it can be used.

3031.jpg
 
For me in 30-06, 308, and 300WM, the 4064 and 3031 are basically equal performers with the 3031 requiring about 10% less powder for same performance..
 
There are a lot of cartridges listed here. My .308 really likes it as do my .303s. Here is a new cartridge that 3031 does well in - the 6.5 Carcano. At least mine.
 
I'm looked over 3031 a few times but never actually tried it.

This may be about to change in the near future :)
 
IMR-3031 was one of three powders (the others being IMR-4198 and Winchester 748) that I used in coming up with a "standard" loading for .223 Remington/5.56mm. I used 24.7 grains of IMR-3031 to get 2800 fps with a 60 grain bullet out of an 18 inch barrel.

(Please Note this load was developed in 1980/1982 using data from Hornady Handbook #4. The handbook has been updated regularly since then and no longer recommends some of these loads. Please consult current data. Use old data at your own risk.)
 
In addition to my previously noted use for my pet 303 Brit deer load, I just loaded up a bunch of 30 Remington for my brother's old Model 8 using 30-30 data and 150 RN Interlocks. Hit the range on Monday and it turned out to be a great combo out to 100 yards.
 
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Like an earlier post said; it’s good in lots of different cartridges from .22’s up to .45/70, etc.

I liken it to Unique in handguns and shotguns because it almost never creates the fastest loads with any given bullet weight, but no matter what you use it in it just seems to work well.

Hopefully the stash you found is still ok to use :thumbup:.

Stay safe.
 
IMR 3031 is my go to powder for .30-30, 6.5 Carcano and .303 Brit.
Medium capacity case, less than magnum power levels.
It is slower (lower pressure) than IMR 4895 which I also use in a pinch.
I try to keep within my absolute necessities for what I use and need..
I am not a wildcatter or experimenter.
 
My reload .30 WCF cartridge case, with standard rifle primer, 30gr IMR 3031, 170 gr flat nose softpoint jacketed bulleted = POI of Winchester SuperX Power Point 170gr FNSP factory ammo with my Marlin 336W. Ok by me.
 
I found an 8 pound jug of 3031 a few years ago during a shortage. I've been using it for .223 in my AR. 23.2 grains topped with a 53 grain HP or 55 grain SP.
 
It is slower (lower pressure) than IMR 4895 which I also use in a pinch.

IMR3031 is faster than IMR4895, and IMR4064 is a little slower than IMR4895. Generally speaking, if you are trying to match velocities, IMR3031 will generate higher pressure... trying to get that faster powder to push a bullet as fast as a slower powder, but that also depends on a number of other factors.
 
I found an 8 pound jug of 3031 a few years ago during a shortage. I've been using it for .223 in my AR. 23.2 grains topped with a 53 grain HP or 55 grain SP.
I'm running 25 and a 52gr FB in a 556 chamber.
It's rather full. But the accuracy is sweet.
 
Sidebar question: I was just given a 16-oz metal can of, "Du Pont Improved Military Rifle Powder, Number 3031." (Almost full red/white can) I suspect this is rather old, but I do not smell anything odd, although I don't know what I'm, "smelling for," anyway. Seems clean when sample poured on clean white paper; no color or rust; just nice graphite gray. Do I treat this the exact same as your subject here, "IMR 3031,?" I'm trying to judge condition/safety here. Haven't reloaded for a while; looks like I'll need to. Thinking for 30-30. Thanks
 
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