700-x

[Critch]

I reloaded some 357 magnums the other nite. I used some 158 grain hard cast bullets and loaded in sets of ten from 3.5 grains to 5.3 grains. Interestingly, the higher grain loads burned the powder better, even though it was a 3 inch barreled GP-100.

The best loads seemed to be in the high 4's, but I will have to really work on this. A 3 inch barrel is not a target pistol anyway.

[Rocky Raab]

That's not too surprising, Critch. Most powders do their best in a small pressure range. Below that range, they may not combust well. Above it and they can get squirrely as to peak pressure.

IMR 700X is one of those powders that I seldom think of first, but are often surprised by when I eventually try them. Two examples are in the 9mm Makarov and with cast bullets in the 30-30.

[Critch]

I have 2 cans of 700-X, and I don't remember buying either one of them. They were both sealed. I pretty much used Unique for pistols over the years. I've heard some good things about newer powders, so when I run out of 700-X, I'll try them. Any suggestions?

I found that the 700-X doesn't seem to work real well in my powder throw, either that or I don't know how to use it.

[BILLY D.]

YOU ARE RIGHT CRITCH, THE STUFF DOESN'T METER WORTH A HOOT. THATS IMPORTANT IN PISTOL CARTRIDGES WHERE A TENTH OF A GRAIN CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE.

HAVE YOU TRIED HODGDON CLAYS OR UNIVERSAL CLAYS YET? I GOT EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE WITH U-CLAYS IN 41MAG AND 45 COLT. CLEAN BURNING AND GOOD BALLISTICS.