Old powder

[Bugkiller99]

Friend just contacted me. Trying to get rid of some old “shotgun” powder.



Winchester 540



I told him I would take some.

He asked what I would use it for as I don’t reload shotgun. I just smiled.

 

[BC38]

That's the Winchester equivalent of Hodgdon HS-6, right?

SCORE!

 

[muddocktor]

I found a link to some old Winchester loading data that covers 540 on castpics.net. Here is a link to it for you.

<<<Link to Winchester loading data>>>

 

[3rdgeargrndrr]

Its spring again at my house!!

 

[2152hq]

W540 was designed as a 12ga powder for heavy shot loads,,1 1/4+.

But it was also listed in loads in the 9mmLuger, 40 & 10mm and I think the 45acp.
Not sure about the last one.

I used it some in 9mmLuger. A small amt came along with a couple flats of heavy loaded 12ga reloads loaded with it.
I knew the source of the loads and shot those up. The rest of the powder loaded quite a few 9mm for me.

**added
I should have seen muddocktor's link before posting..
It'll give you some handgun loads using W540 including 45acp.

 

[joeintexas]

I would have bought it just for the can alone. Nostalgia.

 

[wgnovak]

I wouldn't waste time reloading with it. I'd put a match to it. You could always load a few hundred rounds and test the velocity and its accuracy if you have the time.

 

[Qc Pistolero]

I'd use it.the can is not rusted and looks in quite a good condition for its age.

 

[growr]

540 and hs-6 are indeed one in the same....use it and have a blast!
Randy

 

[Bakebfr480]

I recall seeing data for it in some not too old loading manuals...........if it smells fresh use it!

 

[ArchAngelCD]

W540/HS-6 is one of my three favorite powders. The other two are W231/HP-38 and W296/H110. That is my handgun powder trinity.