Reloading your own .308 Winchester ammunition can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings and the ability to tailor loads to your specific rifle and needs. However, selecting the appropriate powder is crucial for safety and optimal performance. This guide explores various powder types suitable for .308 reloading, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Powder Types and Their Characteristics
Several powder types are compatible with the .308 Winchester cartridge, each possessing unique burn rates and characteristics. Understanding these differences is paramount for safe and effective reloading.
1. Spherical Powders
Spherical powders, like IMR 4350, IMR 4064, and H4895, are known for their consistent burning rate and excellent metering characteristics. This makes them ideal for progressive reloading presses, allowing for smoother and more efficient loading processes. These powders often provide excellent accuracy in .308 Winchester, especially with heavier bullets.
- IMR 4350: A popular choice for medium to heavy-weight bullets, known for its versatility and accuracy.
- IMR 4064: A slower-burning powder, well-suited for heavier bullets and longer barrel lengths. Provides excellent accuracy and muzzle velocity.
- H4895: A versatile powder suitable for a wide range of bullet weights, offering good accuracy and moderate pressure.
2. Extruded Powders
Extruded powders, such as RL15, Varget, and BL-C(2), offer excellent metering and consistent performance. They're often favored for their clean burning properties and suitability for various bullet weights.
- RL15: A popular choice known for its high performance and suitability for heavier bullets. Often produces high velocities.
- Varget: Highly versatile and accurate, suitable for a wide range of bullet weights and applications. A favorite among many reloaders for its consistency.
- BL-C(2): Another versatile powder known for its clean burning characteristics and consistent performance. Suitable for both light and heavier bullets.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Powder
Beyond the powder type, several other factors influence your powder selection:
- Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets generally require slower-burning powders to achieve optimal performance. Lighter bullets usually benefit from faster-burning powders.
- Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally allow for more complete powder burn, making slower-burning powders a suitable choice.
- Desired Velocity: The desired muzzle velocity significantly influences powder selection. Consult reloading manuals for appropriate powder charges to achieve your target velocity.
- Rifle Specifics: The specific characteristics of your rifle, including its twist rate, can impact your choice of powder and bullet weight.
Safety First: Always Consult Reloading Manuals
Crucially, always consult a comprehensive reloading manual specific to your chosen powder and bullet. These manuals provide detailed load data, including safe starting charges and maximum loads. Never exceed the recommended maximum load data, as doing so can lead to dangerous pressure increases and potential damage to your firearm or injury. Start with the minimum charge listed and work your way up cautiously, meticulously documenting your results.
Finding the Right Load for Your .308
The process of finding the optimal load for your specific rifle and ammunition components involves careful experimentation and attention to detail. Begin with the minimum charge listed in your reloading manual and incrementally increase the charge, keeping careful records of the results. Pay attention to accuracy, velocity, and overall consistency. Consider using a chronograph to measure your muzzle velocity accurately.
Remember, reloading is a precise and potentially dangerous process. Always prioritize safety and follow all recommended procedures. This detailed guide offers a foundation for selecting appropriate powders for .308 reloading. With meticulous research and careful practice, you can achieve accurate and consistent results.
