I know this has been discussed before, but here goes again.
I reload rifle most of the time, so my rifle powder is replaced often.
My pistol powder (Alliant, IMR & Hodgdon) is 10 to 12 years old. The last time I used any was about 5 years ago. This powder has been stored inside my home at between 65 to 80 degrees F in low humidity.
Should I use it or chunk it?
I hate to chunk 5 to 6 Lbs.

Thanks for any information.

MauserK98

I just finished up a can of IMR4895 from the 1970's. Shot 1/2 groups with it.

If you don't want the powder, I'd be happy to burn it for you. I'm sure I can find some cases that will hold it just fine.

I spoke with Tom Bowen and Dick Quesenberry from Hodgdon and Alliant powder manufacturers and both stated that powder will last for at least 25 years. The conditions you are storing the powder at only your great grandson should ever question it. Hodgdon 4831 surplus powder from WWII era is still being used with no issues as long as it is stored in a reasonable environment.

My powder lasts a long time if I'm shooting it in small cases that don't use a lot. If shooting it in large magnums it doesn't last nearly as long.

Thank's guy's

The reason I want to use it, is to load about 1000 rounds of 9MM.
My son-in-law paid the tax and purchased a 9MM Uzi.
He said load up and we will have fun.

Thanks again.
Mauserk98

I am still using a can of Unique that cost under 9 bucks.
I loaded some 40 S&W and they all went bang like they were supposed to.
If kept in climate controlled conditions it should last a loooong time.

I'm still occasionally shooting some of that H-4831 powder from WW11 surplus. I haven't chronographed my loads lately but I believe they are still good. Pd. $1.50 a pound for it in 1960, that was half the price of new powder at that time.

quote:

Posted 22 August 2011 21:48 Hide Post
I'm still occasionally shooting some of that H-4831 powder from WW11 surplus. I haven't chronographed my loads lately but I believe they are still good. Pd. $1.50 a pound for it in 1960, that was half the price of new powder at that time.

me 2 - still have about 50#'s left. i think i paid the purdie boys something like $.40/# at the time

Deteriorating smokeless powders produce an acidic odor and may
produce a reddish brown fume. (Don’t confuse this with common
solvent odors such as alcohol, ether and acetone.)