Ole Joe Clark
Absent Comrade
Why change from Unique? If it's not broke why fix it? I've used it since about 1975, it hasn't let me down yet. The point is well taken that if you want to change, good, leaves more for the rest of us. 
Substitutes for Alliant Unique
- Thread starter 38SPL HV
- Start date
flintsghost
Member
I've used unique for more years than I care to remember. But never in smaller cartridges. In 38/357 2400 is much better as is bullseye for lgiht target loads. I only use unique in 41 mag, 44 spec, 44 mag and 45 ACP(for some loads).
Cdog
Member
I switched to Universal around 15 years ago. Yes, cast lead bullet lube smokes as bad with it as anything else.
I switched for the metering properties and lack of freckles I and my .45's suffered using Unique. Used a lot of W231/HP38 before settling in on Universal. It's very good/versatile powder too.
I use Universal in the same applications as anyone would use Unique. Accuracy has never been an issue. I use it almost exclusively for my .45 ACP target loads. I prefer it over faster powders due to better load density. It really shines in standard pressure .45 Colt. Yes, I use it in standard pressure .38 special loads too.
For higher performance I switch gears. Longshot, W296/H110, Accurate 5 and 7 are all staples for me.
I'm not married to any powder. I'll explore and experiment.
I switched for the metering properties and lack of freckles I and my .45's suffered using Unique. Used a lot of W231/HP38 before settling in on Universal. It's very good/versatile powder too.
I use Universal in the same applications as anyone would use Unique. Accuracy has never been an issue. I use it almost exclusively for my .45 ACP target loads. I prefer it over faster powders due to better load density. It really shines in standard pressure .45 Colt. Yes, I use it in standard pressure .38 special loads too.
For higher performance I switch gears. Longshot, W296/H110, Accurate 5 and 7 are all staples for me.
I'm not married to any powder. I'll explore and experiment.
Moe Mentum
Member
BE86 meters much better than Unique, burn rate about the same.
Powder measures might make difference.
I've found that Unique, Red Dot and Bullseye all meter very well through my Dillon Powder measures. With all of the above flake powders if I want (for example) 3.2 grains, it will deliver 3.2 grains every single throw when checked on my digital scale. If it's varying between 3.2 and 3.3, it's because I'm right on the edge and backing off a 1/12 turn or so will give me consistent readings on the scale when setting the measure, and it will hold that in subsequent accuracy checks over hundreds of rounds.
I suspect the Dillon measure works well with flake powders given how the shuttle operators and the fairly solid "clunk" that is delivered with each throw, which settles the powder evenly.
I've found that Unique, Red Dot and Bullseye all meter very well through my Dillon Powder measures. With all of the above flake powders if I want (for example) 3.2 grains, it will deliver 3.2 grains every single throw when checked on my digital scale. If it's varying between 3.2 and 3.3, it's because I'm right on the edge and backing off a 1/12 turn or so will give me consistent readings on the scale when setting the measure, and it will hold that in subsequent accuracy checks over hundreds of rounds.
I suspect the Dillon measure works well with flake powders given how the shuttle operators and the fairly solid "clunk" that is delivered with each throw, which settles the powder evenly.
OP
38SPL HV
Member
Thank you everyone, great inputs.
OP
38SPL HV
Member
I tap my Little Dandy Rotor three times to settle Unique, and it weighs out right on the money in accordance with RCBS charge chart. Power Pistol and HP38 does not require this methodology which I prefer to do without!
Agreed. .38 Special and .357 Magnum are two very different pressure bands. Just because the reloading manuals list data for a given powder in .38, .45, and .44 Magnum, doesn't mean the powder will be very happy to operate in all those cartridges.
For .38 Special, Bullseye and Winchester SuperTarget have served me well. Lots of people say nice things about Titegroup and HP-38/WW-231 (I wish I could get some locally, but no dice). Both the BE and WST meter beautifully even at tiny charge weights, and burn clean.
For .357 Magnum, Universal has burned adequately at those pressures, but I haven't been super-satisfied with it. There's always more smoke, more unburned powder and residue, and larger groups than Unique, no matter how how or cold the load. I know a few 9mm guys that have been very happy with Hodgdon CFE Pistol, at more or less .357 Magnum pressures.
Oh, and when looking for a replacement powder, I'd also suggest swapping primer brands if that's acceptable to you. It can make a big difference.
Power Pistol, AA#5 and Unique are my go-to's for service-level loads in .38. For midrange target WCs, you can hardly beat Bullseye, IMO, but I read that AA#2 is comparable (haven't used it myself). For the hot stuff in my HDs, 2400 is the choice. HTH
Larry
Larry
I have tried everything, and come to a broad conclusion after 30+ years of testing new powders. The Powder the consistently gives the best groups, and shoots cleanly, is Accurate #5. The starting loads should be used with care, starting from good loading books (Accurate provides a free paper one), but using the Uniques weight is a great start (in every cartridge I have used....20+)
Many use Power Pistol, Universal, w231 and the new B#-86 to replace the old timer..............................
I want to try them.......
but guess what showed up this month at the sporting goods store?
Unique.
I want to try them.......
but guess what showed up this month at the sporting goods store?
Unique.
kd5exp
Member
Powders are hard to come by in my area. I wanted to try the unique but haven't found any. I ended up getting 2 lbs of W231 and have been pleased with it. 38 sp, 9mm, 40 S&W, and 45 acp seem to work well with it. Hope the powders show up in the future some time. I want to make a trip to OKC to Bass Pro and see what they have. They show some in stock on their online catalog.
gwpercle
Member
Universal
Blue Dot
231
HP38
HS-6
Power Pistol
N-330
Can all work when Unique can't be found. These day's you have to use what ever you can find , not like the old days.
Gary
Blue Dot
231
HP38
HS-6
Power Pistol
N-330
Can all work when Unique can't be found. These day's you have to use what ever you can find , not like the old days.
Gary
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HS 6 works for me in 38 +p and 357. Does not work for 38 spl.
