Powder question

[Steve C]

Do you have any real reason to suspect that the powder in the can isn't the powder put there by the factory? Unless the person who gave it to you was a complete wing nut or had reason to cause you harm there's not too much chance that the powder isn't what it was labeled.

Personally I'd use it as it was labeled and not worry about it but some people envision all sorts of conspiracies and imaginary dangers and if you are of that sort do what makes you feel good.

 

[aphelion]

If you use it, just test the loads in a Ruger.

 

[Corpsman]

IMHO - You are going to use components (bullet - primer) to test the powders burning rate. By time you are done, the cost of wasted components and the work involved will offset much of the cost of new powder. When in doubt, throw it out.

 

[Paul5388]

The cost of "new" powder isn't an issue if it isn't available in David's area.

The cost of a few components is also negligible, especially since only a cast bullet should be used in testing (easier to remove if stuck in the barrel).

Then one should also figure out how many cut tube powders are that small, without being a flake. The only one I'm familiar with is 4227 and it's a longer tube (the Australian variety is even a different color).

W231 doesn't look anything like 2400, since it's a flattened ball powder and none of the other ball powders I have look anything like 2400. While it isn't prudent to try to identify a powder by its looks, looks can certainly tell you what it isn't.