Understanding the Building Blocks: Powder Properties
Hodgdon H4350
Hodgdon H4350’s origin is in the propellant manufacturing facilities of the United States. The powder is produced under stringent quality control measures. The granules are extruded and cut into a cylindrical shape, a common geometry for many rifle powders. The size of the granules impacts powder density, and how they meter in a powder measure, influencing the consistency of your powder charges. H4350 is known for its relatively stable burn rate across varying environmental conditions, a highly desirable trait.
Accurate 4350
Accurate 4350, is also manufactured in the United States, its origins can be traced back to a production facility under similar stringent protocols. Like its Hodgdon counterpart, Accurate 4350 is an extruded powder, its granules are typically cylindrical. This consistency in grain shape contributes to the powder’s smooth metering characteristics in many powder measures. Both powders have their origins in highly regulated production facilities, where consistency is paramount.
The burn rate of a powder is a fundamental characteristic that indicates how quickly the powder combusts, and the pressure produced during the firing cycle. Both powders inhabit a similar position on the burn rate chart, placing them within the medium-slow range, but a subtle difference in burn rate often becomes relevant in how the powder performs in real-world applications. A slight difference in burn rate, in conjunction with the cartridge design, can yield different results in terms of velocity and accuracy potential. It is therefore important to have a thorough understanding of the burn rate chart.
Both powders are designed to create high-pressure loads, and a significant consideration is always the density of the powder. Denser powders can lead to more consistent case fills, and consequently provide a more even burn. As the reloader, the ideal case fill percentage is often determined by testing and careful observation of results.
Performance in the Field: Cartridge by Cartridge Analysis
The true test of any powder comes when it’s put to work. Let’s explore how Accurate 4350 and Hodgdon H4350 perform in some of the most popular cartridges, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, always consult reputable reloading manuals for specific load data and safety guidelines. Start with the minimum recommended load and work your way up, carefully monitoring for pressure signs like flattened primers, difficult bolt lift, or ejector marks on the case head.
The 6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor has rapidly become a favorite. Both H4350 and Accurate 4350 are often found as the powders of choice for this flat-shooting round. Typical load data suggests similar velocities with both powders, with H4350 often having a slight edge in terms of velocity, especially with heavier bullets. However, Accurate 4350 also delivers excellent results and can often offer a slight cost advantage. Accuracy wise, both powders consistently provide excellent groups, and are well suited to be paired with this caliber. It’s common to see both powders used with bullets in the 140-147 grain range for this cartridge, which is often considered the sweet spot.
The .308 Winchester
The .308 Winchester, another extremely common cartridge, also presents an interesting comparison. For .308, H4350 is often favored for slightly heavier bullets (175 grains and above), where its burn rate can help maximize velocity and stability. Accurate 4350 is also effective in this cartridge, particularly with bullets in the 168-grain range, and often shows similar performance with less temperature sensitivity. The reloader should carefully review load data when working with the .308 Winchester.
The .270 Winchester
For the .270 Winchester, a classic hunting cartridge, both powders prove capable. H4350 is a very common recommendation for a range of bullet weights. Accurate 4350 is a solid performer in this caliber, often providing similar accuracy and velocity with a slight economy of use. The .270 Winchester presents a good choice for medium-slow powders.
The 7mm-08 Remington
The 7mm-08 Remington, provides another test. Both powders are well-suited to this cartridge, especially with bullets in the 140-160 grain range. In many loading manuals, both H4350 and Accurate 4350 have data presented in this range.
Across a range of popular cartridges, it is important to note that individual rifles, barrel lengths, and component choices will influence the results you achieve. Thorough load development, with careful attention to detail, is essential for finding the optimal load for your specific firearm.
Advantages and Disadvantages: Weighing the Options
Every powder has its strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to be aware of the unique properties of each powder, and how they impact your reloading.
Hodgdon H4350
Hodgdon H4350 is well known for its incredible temperature stability, which is probably its best characteristic. This means that the powder’s burn rate remains relatively consistent regardless of ambient temperature fluctuations. This characteristic makes it a favorite among long-range shooters and hunters who may encounter significant temperature changes during their outings. H4350 also often provides excellent metering through powder measures, which leads to greater consistency from shot to shot. However, its price can be higher than some other powders, and availability can sometimes be an issue, leading to periods of scarcity.
Accurate 4350
Accurate 4350 offers a compelling value proposition, typically being more affordable. This can be a significant factor for reloaders who shoot in high volumes. It often provides excellent accuracy and velocity, often on par with H4350 in many cartridges. However, some shooters have observed slightly more sensitivity to temperature variations. The availability of Accurate 4350 has improved, but it may still be less common than some of the more established brands.
Temperature Sensitivity: An Important Consideration
Temperature sensitivity is a crucial factor, particularly for shooters who operate in variable conditions. Powders with higher temperature sensitivity tend to burn faster in warmer conditions and slower in colder conditions. This can lead to variations in velocity, and potentially impact your point of impact. Both Accurate 4350 and Hodgdon H4350 are recognized for their overall temperature stability, although Hodgdon H4350 is known to exhibit slightly less sensitivity than Accurate 4350. Reloaders who shoot in extreme temperature environments may want to consider this factor during their decision process.
Finding and Funding: Availability and Cost
The ability to readily obtain powder is a practical consideration. The demand for both Accurate 4350 and Hodgdon H4350 is high, especially due to the popularity of cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor, so it’s essential to find a reliable source. While both powders can be found at most reloading retailers and online stores, availability can fluctuate, and the prices may vary. When it comes to the cost, Accurate 4350 is generally less expensive than Hodgdon H4350. Considering your budget and reloading volume is important. Comparing prices from various sources before making a purchase is always a sound strategy.
Refining Your Craft: Reloading Tips and Best Practices
Before you even begin, familiarize yourself with all the basic safety precautions associated with reloading. Never exceed the maximum powder charges listed in your reloading manuals. Ensure you have a well-ventilated workspace, and always wear safety glasses. It’s essential to always work up loads carefully, starting with the minimum recommended load and increasing the powder charge in small increments. This gradual approach allows you to monitor pressure signs, such as flattened primers or difficult bolt lift, which can indicate an unsafe load.
Invest in a quality powder measure and scale, a good chronograph, and a comprehensive reloading manual. These tools will help you achieve the highest level of precision and safety during your reloading process. Using high-quality components is also advisable.
By following these tips, you will ensure that your reloading experience is safe, fun and provides results you can be proud of.
In Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the selection between Accurate 4350 and Hodgdon H4350 comes down to the specifics of your needs, your target cartridges, and your shooting style. Hodgdon H4350’s impressive temperature stability makes it a strong contender for precision shooting and hunting in diverse conditions. Accurate 4350, with its cost advantages, offers an attractive alternative for high-volume shooters and those looking to save money. For many reloaders, the deciding factor will be which powder performs best in their specific rifle with their chosen components. Both powders have a track record of delivering accuracy, and consistent results when used in the right cartridge.
