Powder Use Question

[CCW University]

Hi all,

I recently acquired a supply of previously owned powder. One of the kegs, and I mean keg this thing is a HUGE 8 pound can, is Winchester Western Ball Powder 296.

This is what Winchester has to say about it:

"This propellant was developed for Winchester factory-loaded ammunition for 357 Magnum, 444 Magnum, and 410 Bore. Its high loading density provides optimal velocity. 296 is recommended by Winchester for 410 Bore AA loads"

I am predominately a .45acp shooter, can I get away with this powder for my .45 loads or am I best off passing it along?

Also, how long will properly stored powder last? Does it loose any effectiveness over time?

Thanks all,

Pete

 

[mbopp]

Don't try using it. Pass it along or trade it. 296 is a good magnum powder but it likes to be used in a full case. Reduced loads can lead to a detonation pressure spike with the results like a double charge of Bullseye.

 

[MichaelK]

Sorry Pete, I don't know anyone that even publishes data on using 296 in the .45ACP. It shines with high pressure, high intensity loads in .357/.41/.44mag, and for Blackhawk only .45 Colt loads.

You might want to extrapolate how much to use compared to a slow burning powder like Blue Dot or AA7 that is loaded in the .45, but I would guess you'd get viscous muzzle flash and mediocore performance. Hope you get a chance to trade it for something a little faster.
Michael

 

[bluetopper]

You need a fast burning powder for 45acp....and this isn't one of them.
296 is for full house Magnum revolver loads. It won't hardly burn at low pressures like the 45.

 

[depoloni]

See if you can find someone to trade it straight-up for a can of Win 231, Unique, or even Titegroup (good luck on the last one) and you'll be set.

 

[tiger rag]

They are correct 296 is nice in 357 44 mag and 30 carbine , You would be well served with unique or 231. swap it

 

[CCW University]

Thanks for all the great information guys...on the trading block it goes!

 

[7.62 Nato]

What area are you in ?

 

[RidgwayCO]

Most people don't talk about it, but W296 is also nice in the .22 Hornet.

 

[Slamfire]

W296 is the same stuff as H110.

I recall reading that this powder was used in the 30 Carbine round.