Alliant BE-86

[Bama Drifter]

So we're all aware that Alliant has been pushing BE-86 as the new wonder powder for all handgun loads. Anyone here had much luck using it for hard cast revolver loads? I understand there's a flash suppressant added and it it supposed to have a "wider pressure band". Specifically interested in 44mag, 357mag or 38Spl and lastly .45ACP plated 230gr loads... your thoughts most appreciated!

Mfg site:
http://www.alliantpowder.com/products/powder/be-86.aspx

 

[ColtPythonElite]

I have used about 10 lbs of it with 140 gr coated cast bullets for .357....I really like the performance. I suspect I could use BE-86 for about everything I now use Power Pistol and Unique for.

 

[jell-dog]

BE-86 thread here on THR

Here ya go, lots data from the reloading gurus on THR:
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=760289
It's a long thread, but well worth reading to find lots of valuable load data on many cartridges, what loads work and what loads don't.
JD

 

[joneb]

I tried this powder for 357 Mag in a Ruger Sec. Six w/a 2.75" barrel and Xtreme plated 158gr rnfp my best groups were at 7.6gr of BE-86 guessing around a 1000 fps. I loaded some more and will run them over the chronogragh soon.

 

[RealGun]

Yesterday I fired test rounds of 357 cases, 158 gr LSWC, SPP, and 7.3 gr BE-86. That is Alliant's load less 10%. It shot well for me in a K-Frame 4" Model 19. It had power to it in that gun, while far from punishing. I liked it a lot and thought it would go well in the smaller guns too.

 

[LiveLife]

If anyone is looking for BE-86, Graf & Sons has it in stock (along with HP-38/Universal) - http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?p=10170128#post10170128

 

[evtSmtx]

In magnums I think you'll prefer H-110 or 300MP. Personally I love BE-86 for 9 & 45 but H-110 all the way in magnums

 

[Toprudder]

I tried this powder for 357 Mag in a Ruger Sec. Six w/a 2.75" barrel and Xtreme plated 158gr rnfp my best groups were at 7.6gr of BE-86 guessing around a 1000 fps. I loaded some more and will run them over the chronogragh soon.

That is the exact load I settled on - 7.6gn BE86, but using 158gn SWC plated Xtreme. It is accurate in my 5" GP100 and results in ~ 1050fps and a very low 9.5 standard deviation. It is not a full magnum load, for that I like either H110 or 2400, but for inexpensive everyday shooting I like my BE86 and 158gn plated Xtremes.

 

[Toprudder]

I have used about 10 lbs of it with 140 gr coated cast bullets for .357....I really like the performance. I suspect I could use BE-86 for about everything I now use Power Pistol and Unique for.

I've used it in 380, 9mm, 40, 45acp, 38spl, and 357mag. It has worked very well in all of those. If I could only get one pistol powder, this would be one I would consider.

 

[lauderdale]

For pistol yes W231/BE86.

 

[Jlr2267]

That is the exact load I settled on - 7.6gn BE86, but using 158gn SWC plated Xtreme. It is accurate in my 5" GP100 and results in ~ 1050fps and a very low 9.5 standard deviation. It is not a full magnum load, for that I like either H110 or 2400, but for inexpensive everyday shooting I like my BE86 and 158gn plated Xtremes.

great minds

I also settled at 7.6gr to 7.7gr with 158gr Berrys round nose for the range. Very pleasant in a full sized revolver.

 

[gonoles_1980]

I use Unique with my hardcast lead for my 44mag, I use BE-86 for my copper plated bullets.