So I got this jug of WC846

[Wildbillz]

Hi All
I got a jug of WC846 that I hope to use for some 308Win ammo (147grn FMJ using GI LC cases and CCI #34 primers or standard large rifle primers). I was told that I could use the manual info from Win748 and or BLC(2). Looking at the manual thats a pretty wide streach. Starting for one is in the middle of the other.

Dose it faveor one type over the other?

What would be a safe starting point?

I know that I need to start low and work my way up but how low should I start?

Any other recomondations or advice on using this powder?

Thanks for you help:banghead:
WB

 

[jaguarxk120]

You need to download a copy of technical manual TM 43-0001-27
it has the data sheets for small caliber ammunition. This manual has the loading data for WC 846 powder.

There's a good chance you can find it on Steves Pages.

 

[45lcshooter]

You were told you can use a different powder for the reload data for BLC 2 and Win748. I wouldn't trust that!!!!!!!! Yes those powders are very similar like IMR 4895 and H4895, but your not going to interchange load data. That's why there are as many powders as there are, all different burn rates, pressures, and so on.

You can consult the other load data, but don't go by it, that's a good way to loose a firearm. I could tell you to use 55grs of Trailboss for your 308, and say it it similar to BLC 2 and Win748.

First rule of reloading, make smart decisions, because you are the one rolling your own for your own firearms.

Good luck my friend with 308 load up.

 

[[email protected]]

You really need to be careful when using surplus powder. You must work the load up in small amounts checking for pressure signs. Wc846 is similar to blc-2, but its just that similar. Even different lots of this power vary. I have used and still use that powder for my 223 plinking loads. During my load development I loaded with my BLc-2 and compared the velocity of that load with rounds loaded with WC846. My thinking is that if the velocity is slower, then so is the power, if its faster then the powder is faster. IMO a chronograph really helps with surplus powder. My LOT acted like BLC-2, but it seemed just a tad faster so I didnt go near max BLC-2 loads.
I doubt that anyone will tell you where to start because there is just too many unknows with surplus powder. It will all be up to you to decide if you will wear gloves, or use a string to fire the first round.

 

[medalguy]

^^^ exactly correct. I also use a lot of surplus powders and I see quite a difference from lot to lot in SOME powders. Others are very consistent. I'd also suggest using a chrono to develop a load for this powder. As usual, start low, I'd suggest maybe another 5% below normal starting loads, and work up very carefully, watching for the usual signs of pressure. As soon as you see anything suspect, stop, and reduce the load.

These powders are safe when used properly but their data does not directly correlate to any cannister grade powders.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

From everything I've read WC846 is the non-canister version of BL-C(2) so you can use the starting load data for BL-C-(2) and work up slowly until you reach the velocity you are looking for. Most times when you buy WC846 in bulk the seller supplies load data. If not it's safe to use BL-C(2) starting data especially for the .308.

I don't know why everyone is getting so crazy when it's common to use that data with WC846 and H335 data for WC844.

 

[rondog]

I have 16lbs. of WC846 that came from Pat's, I bought it from a local feller that was moving and selling his stockpile. Sure wish I could use it for .30-06 M2 ball. I don't shoot .308, and all my .223 components are already assembled and stashed.

If anybody in the Denver area wants to trade IMR4895 for WC846, let me know.These jugs are still sealed.

 

[35 Whelen]

I have 16lbs. of WC846 that came from Pat's, I bought it from a local feller that was moving and selling his stockpile. Sure wish I could use it for .30-06 M2 ball. I don't shoot .308, and all my .223 components are already assembled and stashed.

If anybody in the Denver area wants to trade IMR4895 for WC846, let me know.These jugs are still sealed.

I don't know why you couldn't use it in a 30-06. The Hodgdon on-line manual has loads for BL-C2 in that caliber for all bullet weights from 110 gr to 190 gr.

I've used quite a lot of WC846 in my .223's. I started at around 23 grs. with bullets from 55 grs to 65 grs. and worked up until I started getting pressures signs.

 

[ltcboy]

I have 16lbs. of WC846 that came from Pat's, I bought it from a local feller that was moving and selling his stockpile. Sure wish I could use it for .30-06 M2 ball.

I use 47 grains of 846 surplus under a 150 grain FMJ flat bottom bullet. I have never had any issue with it. It shoots fine and I use it in my M1.


Mike