What is Universal?

[giggitygiggity]

If a load calls for Universal, is it referring to Hodgdon Universal Clays?

 

[procomps]

Exactly right. BTW, for me, at least, Universal Clays is a truly "universal" pistol powder, usable, though not always the absolute best choice, in virtually all pistol calibers. I have and do use it in some 9mm, .38 Spl, .357 Mag, 44 Spl, and .45 ACP. YMMV. I'll probably use it when I start reloading my 20 ga., too.

 

[GP100man]

some people say it`s comparable to unique but cleaner.

 

[ohioshooter]

I've used it in .45ACP and 9 mm but will use it for all pistol calibers. If you are using lead bullets, don't mistake the smoke as being from the powder, it could be the lube or wax from the bullet itself.