I was thinking today about the burn rate of powders, and what the proper application is.
I know that a lot of this is caliber specific so let's choose one in particular for discussion purposes. Let's use the venerable .270.
If I load some rounds up for this caliber using 90 grain varmint bullets, it would occur to me that I should use a faster burning powder as compared to using a 150 grain bullet might require a slower burning powder due to higher pressures as a result of the increased bullet weight.
Is there a set rule in regards to what burn rate should be utilized with what grain weight of bullet in the various calibers? Are there any generalities to go by?
Besides using a chronograph to note actual velocity, how would one determine which is the better powder choice for different loads? If accuracy is the ONLY factor, should one even be concerned with trying a different powder if you have excellent results already?
I have had very good luck with the loads that I am using. But how do I know that I am getting the very best out of my gun? All of my loads are MOA or better, and my on-game performance proves that. Since I am a hunter ONLY (only punch paper when sighting in), do I need to keep searching for new loads using various powders, or just resign myself that I have found what my guns like and just stick with them?
I guess I am just wondering if I am missing anything by not experimenting with different powders. I am also not clear when to use a different burning rate to achieve a desired effect. Further, how would one compare the burn rate of one powder with another powder from a different manufacturer?
I know that a lot of this is caliber specific so let's choose one in particular for discussion purposes. Let's use the venerable .270.
If I load some rounds up for this caliber using 90 grain varmint bullets, it would occur to me that I should use a faster burning powder as compared to using a 150 grain bullet might require a slower burning powder due to higher pressures as a result of the increased bullet weight.
Is there a set rule in regards to what burn rate should be utilized with what grain weight of bullet in the various calibers? Are there any generalities to go by?
Besides using a chronograph to note actual velocity, how would one determine which is the better powder choice for different loads? If accuracy is the ONLY factor, should one even be concerned with trying a different powder if you have excellent results already?
I have had very good luck with the loads that I am using. But how do I know that I am getting the very best out of my gun? All of my loads are MOA or better, and my on-game performance proves that. Since I am a hunter ONLY (only punch paper when sighting in), do I need to keep searching for new loads using various powders, or just resign myself that I have found what my guns like and just stick with them?
I guess I am just wondering if I am missing anything by not experimenting with different powders. I am also not clear when to use a different burning rate to achieve a desired effect. Further, how would one compare the burn rate of one powder with another powder from a different manufacturer?