question about powder

[johnandersonoutdoors]

Late last night I checked a gun trader forum and found a guy with several 8lb containers of Unique. Instantly I was thrilled because I am pretty new to reloading and never really got a chance to stock up. Unique has basically been my only powder in 9mm.
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Best news is he is selling 8lb container for $125. That is a deal in my book in today's market.

The problem? I found myself worrying about whether the powder is pure and untainted. The guy said it is unopened, but from my limited experience powder is not sold with any tamper resistant seal. The guy said he got it in a trade so he is at least second owner.

I would feel better if i could buy powder from a dealer where it came straight off the delivery truck, but with availability you guys know how that is.

What do you think?

 

[kcofohio]

Buying anything from somebody you don't know is always a gamble.

The question is, do you have $125 to gamble with?

 

[johnandersonoutdoors]

I dont have much money, relative to many folks, but fortunately money is not the issue. How do you know if the powder is safe?

I guess i would just try to compare his 8lb to the little bit of Unique that i have left?

 

[kcofohio]

Here is a discussion on old powders. Might help you identify if the powder is good or not.

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=747375&highlight=bad+powder

 

[Reloadron]

An 8 Lb canister of Unique typically retails for about $128 plus S&H plus HAZMAT added to the shipping. When you can find the stuff in stock. Powder should be shipped HAZMAT from someone authorized to ship HAZMAT. How does the seller plan to get the powder to you?

Alliant powders do have a glued seal on the container, however, this is hardly a "Tamper Proof" seal.

Late last night I checked a gun trader forum and found a guy with several 8lb containers of Unique.

Know your seller. Is this guy a regular forum member on the forum? Does he or she have credibility in the forum? Ask yourself a few questions here.

I would still be curious about the shipping but the final decision rest with you.

Just My Take....
Ron

 

[poco loco]

I just found some Data 79, surplus AA2700

new production, not pulled, and it's great....Good recipes, good ballistics and less than a hundred bucks a jug.

Plus nice Data for the 30-06 esp just over 3kfps with a 150fbfmj....

I would buy the Unique myself, esp as rare as pistol powder is right now....You have to consider that yes, malicious people exist but they really are rare and the odds of someone adulterating that particular jug is pretty slim.

Match it to a known good sample of Unique, make sure grain structure, size and color are the same then try a couple light 38 loads in a 357....the gun will have the strength to withstand a mild overcharge....make very sure it is all one type of flake powder, no ball or rod mixed in and odds are you're golden, just follow the precautions and it will be fine.

Unique is pretty easy to identify and a good safe powder for pistol and shotgun....even light rifle loads...

 

[johnandersonoutdoors]

Thanks for the feedback guys. Checked his profile on the gun forum and I think I actually recognize his first name. I think he shoots idpa sometimes at my club so feel a little better.