Unique is NOT a good powder for .380 because in the very small quantities needed it doesn't work well in most powder measures. Unique is made up of relatively large flakes. If you weigh each load, Unique is sorta OK, but I much prefer Alliant's Power Pistol or WW 231 for small cartridges like the .380 or 9mm. Both are made up of much smaller flakes (actually smashed balls of powder, thus the "ball powder" description).
Agreed. Unique is an excellent powder, but it is VERY difficult to accurately meter in the small quantities required for 380 loads.
You simply can't go wrong with Winchester 231/HP38. Reliable, clean, meters like water. If you have to have performance similar to Unique, try Hodgdon Universal.
I've been reloading for a little over a year now and have used HP38 since. Not one single problem out of it. I use about 3.5 grains per round of it with excellent results, can't go wrong!
The only thing I could get as of yet due to the shortages, is IMR 800X. I've been using it in 45LC and it has been OK. I'me hunting down data for 380 and 9MM Parabellum. I'll post when I have results.
I have been OK with AA#2. start light and see how it works for you. several different weights and styles of bullet, lead, plated and jacketed. the short barrel makes me think a slower powder would likely be wasted. use #2 for several of my plinker loads so it is usually on the shelf
I know not everyone likes it, but I've been using Unique for many years, 9mm, 357, and lately 380, without any problems. Also have some w231 to try next.
I used to load with Clays, now Im using CFE Pistol. Its about the same burn speed as Win 231. Get the loading data from Hodgdon powders, I would give it to you here, but always confirm loads through your powder manufacturer.
What is your criteria for best powder?
Highest velocity?
Best accuracy?
Most consistent metering?
What?
For best velocity, I like powders around 231/HP38, N320, and Green Dot.
For best accuracy, I like Bullseye and 231/HP38
For most consistent metering, I like AA2 and N320
Most economical is probably TiteGroup in terms of cost per fps.
If I had to choose one powder, it would be 231/HP38.
I reload .380, 9mm, .38spl, .357 magnum, all with Alliant BE86. Great for all with the exception of full blown loads for the .357. Its just like Power Pistol powder, But BE86 has flash inhibitors, and it meters extremely well.
I just set up my Dillon 650 for 380. I use 700x in my 45acp and just did a small batch with it for 380. I tape a cheapo aquarium air pump on my powder measure's cap (also use it for Trailboss) and I'm getting +/- .1 grain (2.1g is the load) with a 95g SNS casting coated lead bullet using the xsmall Dillon powder bar..
That should be a light load. And for those wondering, the aquarium pump bill-e uses is to vibrate the powder measure device and make the powder drop more accurate. I use Hornady gear and don't have to worry about accuracy. LOL just joking. Den
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Ruger Pistol Forums
285.3K posts
19.9K members
Since 2008
A forum community dedicated to Ruger pistol firearm owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about optics, gunsmithing, styles, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!