Powder Question for Reloading 223

[Bruce H.]

I started reloading 223 about two months ago. I have an RCBS Uniflow Powder Measure that delivers very consitent loads. I am using Varget powder. One problem that I have encountered is that sometimes when I am delivering powder into a case the handle on the Powder Measure sticks part way through the metering process. I have to apply more pressure than normal to unstick the handle and push the handle all the way down to deliver the entire amount of powder. I have weighed the powder delivered many times and there is no variation in weight delivered comparing when the handle sticks and when it does not stick, it is just annoying. I would prefer to have a smooth handle action for filling all cases, not have it stick for every fourth or fifth case. I assume that the reason it sticks is because of the shape of the individual powder grains. Some of the grains must get stuck lengthwise at the interface between the main casting and the measuring cylinder and have to be sheared in order to complete the delivery cycle. The individual grains are shaped like little solid cylinders. Is there a powder that I can use for loading 223 which has a different grain shape and will not make the powder measure stick partway through the delivery cycle or is this normal for the Uniflow Powder Measure?

 

[Galil5.56]

Try H335... Extremely uniform, smooth as silk operation from my old Uniflow, and the ammo made with it is absolutely top flight. Also love WW748 and AA2460 in .223.

Sure, extruded can work great in .223, but for ease of use in more than single stage reloading, and superior load density, make mine one of the three listed above.

Good luck!

 

[FM12]

I also use H335...a very accurate powder. A lot of benchrester shooters use it. I've never been dissapointed in it.

 

[KI.W.]

VihtaVuori N-133 is the ticket. But take only one can. It is to hard to find it here in Finland. I need it now tre cans.

 

[K3]

Another vote for H335.

 

[JonB]

+1 on the H335

 

[Mr White]

I have the same thing happen to me but I've learned to live with it because I can load up some pretty accurate ammo with 4895 and Varget. When the handle sticks on the up (powder drop) stroke, I just tap it back down once and that seems to do the trick.

I've only been reloading for about a year and admittedly haven't played around with a lot of different powders yet. I like 4895 because it shoots well in .223, .30-06 and .270.

 

[tkcomer]

Ramshot's Tac flows like water and has been very accurate in my 223 reloads. It's even great in my 308. Winchester's 748 flows great also, but Tac was a lot more cheaper and shoots just as good out of my guns. I love the stuff.

 

[Norseman_01]

TAC for any serious high velocity work with heavy bullets.

Reloader 15 is also VERY nice, but, you all but have to use a drop tube to get it all in.

For match loads (which is only 100-300) I use a Lyman DPS to measure out stuff anyhow. I don't use stick powders for plinkers, which is what my progressive is used for.

 

[04JRB]

Ive had very good luck with the H335. 25 Gr H335 with winchester brass CCI primer and 55 Gr v-max bullets are giving me sub MOA.

 

[English Bob]

VIT N133 or N135, had good results with both, currently using the latter.

Available in the US from:-

http://www.sinclairintl.com/

 

[birdbustr]

It's the size of the powder. If you use a more finely ground powder it will have smaller pieces and flow better. I use Varget in my .223 and I have a Lyman Electronic scale/dispenser. Haven't tried H335, but I have tried R15 and it's about the same size, so I don't see how that could be any better. Ramshot makes X-Terminator powder that has very fine pieces that should work fine. My RCBS uniflow only gets used for pistol reloading. It's fast, but by no means "consistent" or "accurate". For shooting pistols at close range it's fine. Every screw on the thing loosens after just a few loads of powder. Save up for one of the electronic dispenser/measurers much faster and consistent, and you can use Varget with no issues.

 

[English Bob]

I'll have to second what birdbustr says about the electronic dispensers. I invested in the RCBS Chargemaster Combo last year and it's been worth every cent.

It's fast, easy to empty and there's no chance of missing a light or heavy charge as you weigh every one, it even keeps count for you. The only bad comment I can add about it is that when you are using sperical powder it does tend to throw it about a bit but that's about it.

 

[hawkeye1]

I have to agree with the H335. It is fine and meters quite well through the powder measure.

I have recently been using Hodgdon Benchmark. It is super accurate with the lighter bullets in these type of cartridges. I have been using it with 45 grain Sierra Varminter. WOW. I have also heard of great results from a buddy of mine with the 40 grain bullets.

Give these a try, they will flow well in the measure. Among others, I am sure.

Good shooting'