View Full Version : powder for reloading
How long does power for reloading last ? Does it deteriorate ?
I have some can of it that I have had for probably 20 years or so, would it still be good ?
JOE WALLEYE
10-27-2011, 04:08 PM
It depends how it has been stored. After 20 years I would let it go. The best way to get rid of it is to sprinkle it on your lawn. It makes good fertilizer.
I've used lots of old powder, with no negative effects. If the container is still sealed, and has been stored appropriately, I would follow the safety measures, start low, and move up from there as long as everything is working as it should.
Old powder that is in an opened container - If I have the need, I use it in reduced loads to fire form brass for some of my improved chamberings. If I'm not in need of additional fire formed brass, I just put it on the shelf until a later date, when I get my 'next' improved chamber rifle. I have a few more I'd like to have...
Phil T
11-16-2011, 08:53 AM
If it smells acidic, dump it. If it still has a slight solvent odor, it's supposed to still be good. But, start with low powder charges, and carefully work your way up.
CollinLeon
12-30-2011, 03:08 AM
Yep, the best thing to do with old powder is get rid of it. And the best way to do that is to send it to me... I'll dispose of it properly by placing small amounts of it in cylindrical brass containers with lead plugs on top. :)
Seriously though, if it's been stored properly, it lasts a VERY LONG time. Try a known quantity out with a reload. If you are not getting the same velocity that you used to get, you can either choose to change the powder amount per cartridge or just accept the reduced power.
I am serously thinking of getting rid of the old powder because it is not worth the risk of injury or blowing up an expensive gun.
CollinLeon
12-30-2011, 11:52 AM
I am serously thinking of getting rid of the old powder because it is not worth the risk of injury or blowing up an expensive gun.
How many pounds do you have and what type of powder?
not even pounds, just some in each can and probably not enough to worry about.
2400, Hercules unique, hercules bullseye, winchester 231 and dupont imr 4895
I took the powder to a gun shop and asked the gunsmith to look at it and he said it looked good and smelled good to him and he would use it as others have said with a reduced load to try it out. However he said it still looks good to him.
as long as it has been stored in a cool dry place all is well.
I'ved used powder 30-40yrs old that was just fine.
Just know that when you run out of this powder that you will have to start over working up a load with current powder.
Lot #'s that far apart could vary by a large amount even though they have the same # on the can.
Ned
Thanks for the info on newer powder, I didn't know that.
I have some bullseye, unique and 2400 as well as some very small amounts for rifles.