[LeMat]

I'm still hunting down load data for 300 grain lead pills and came across something strange (or perhaps not, maybe I just haven't noticed it before).

I've seen loads using 9.0 grains of Unique for both 250-55 and 300 grain lead pills. Neither of which are gas checked.

Isn't it odd that the same powder charge can be used for bullets weights that are 50 grains apart?

I remember loading up some 300 grainers years ago using 9.0 grains of Unique, but just can't get myself to think that I can use the same load for 255's.

I've got a box of 500 300grLTCFP and don't want to make whomper-stompers out of them (they aren't very hard), but rather some softer "plinking" rounds. I'm thinking Unique is the way to go with these.

 

[xtimberman]

I think you're still talking about loading for .45 Colt.....?

I'm looking at Alliant's lawyered-up loading brochure for year 2000.

Here is their Max. load for 300gr. HP/XTP and Unique:

300gr. XTP ; 6.8gr. Unique ; 690fps ; 12,600cup

On a bright sunny day, you might be able to watch that one fly downrange! :lol:

I've shot 1000s of the 255gr +9.0gr Unique loads through my Colt SAAs. It is the normal "everyday" load I put in them if I'm carrying one in the woods. It's not that heavy of a load but it's not a light paper-puncher either. I've chrono'd it through a 5 1/2" barrel at ~900fps, so it closely matches the factory ballistics of the original US Army service load.

I feel certain that my revolvers would fare just fine if I exchanged that 255gr. bullet for a 300 grainer, but they don't have adjustable sights. If I was set on using Unique, I'd probably start at/sli. below Alliant's powder volumes and work up to 9.0gr. - even with your big Ruger.

xtm

 

[LeMat]

The Unique I have is probably 10 years old or so. It's been kept away from cold/heat, etc.. Think it's still good?

I have been unable to find a single pound of the stuff in NW Montana. :shock:

 

[LeMat]

I've seen some folks like 6.5 grains of Red Dot underneath a 300 grainer as well. Giving around 900fps out of a 5.5" bbl.

Same thing with a 255, giving about 850fps and is apparently nice and accurate.

 

[Guest]

I've been using 7.4 to 7.7 grains of Unique for years in my 255 gr plinking loads. Enough authority to knock down the big Pepper Poppers with ease...and still not a handful of recoil.

giz

 

[Sebago Son]

The Unique I have is probably 10 years old or so. It's been kept away from cold/heat, etc.. Think it's still good?

I have been unable to find a single pound of the stuff in NW Montana. :shock:

If it's kept dry, cool and out of the sun it's fine I'm sure.... I've been using Unique out of the last of 3, 8 lbs caddys I bought in 1986 with perfect satisfaction.... I've bought quite alot since then but rotate my inventories to use the oldest first.

To check for deterioration, look for unusual coloring or a fine rust-like powder on the surfce of the flakes.

 

[LeMat]

Well, I finally found some Unique.

Now here's the kicker - my local gun shop carries just about every powder out there. They have all of the Alliant flavors and they all run $16.00.

Except for Unique - $20.00!!! Now someone tell me why it's 4 dollars more! :x The last pound I bought just a few years ago was only $13.00. Are you guys paying that much for this stuff?

I bought a pound of Bullseye as well and may be using that for a lot of my 45 ACP loads now. I'll reserve the Unique for 45 Colt.

 

[toroflow]

Try Alliant "Promo" powder for $80/8 lbs. thru Powder Valley. Burning characteristics for Promo are the same as Red Dot. I use 3.6 grains & 158 lead in .38s, and 5.5 grains & 240 lead in .44 special. Can't beat Promo for economy (read: CHEAP!).