I am loading for my Ruger Stainless .300 Win mag using the powder recommended by more than one fellow shooter.

This powder AR2209 (Aus) or H4350 (USA) is loaded at 74gn behind a 130gn HP which theoretically gives me around 3,300 fps.

This is great, However I notice a huge ball of flame when I shoot the thing. I`m assuming that alot of powder is being burnt, well after the slug has exited the barrel.

Loading data for the next fastest powder AR2208 (Aus) or H4895 (USA) lists using 68 gn yet gives about 100 fps better velocity.

Are there any serious problems that can be caused by using the faster powder ?

It certainly seems more economical.

A penny for your thoughts Gentlemen

Cheers Morton

The few grains difference in the load means nothing.....and the 100'/sec difference means nothing as well.....shoot the load that gives you the best accuracy and get on with killing roos!

As far as the flame at the muzzle.....take that gun out in the dark and have someone else shoot it and watch.....the flame is immense no matter what you shoot.

Personally, I'd stick with the H-4350 or if you have it use Varget.

It's not actually unburned powder that causes the muzzle flash.The muzzle flash is caused by
gasses created during the burning of the powder exiting the barrel and coming into contact with oxygen in the air.The oxygen is what you are seeing burning.
Vapodog has it right,shoot whatever gives you the best accuracy in your rifle and have fun.
Howard

I like slow powders in 300wm and have had best result with vhitavuory N-160 and norma MRP with bullets from 125gr to 185gr!

Regards

Morton3,

I use 66 grains of H4895 w/ 150s for MV +-3265 fps. You should be fine w/ 68 grns under a 130 especially out of a Ruger.

Good Luck!

Reloader

You're are right about AR2209 being our Hodgdon H-4350, but you are are off a little on the AR2208.

AR2208 is NOT Hodgdon's H-4895. AR2208 is in fact Hodgdon's Varget. The Aussie powder sold here as H-4895 is actually AR2206H.

Don't think that helps with your question but just thought I would try to help clear the powder names up for the board.

I've been using the 4350 for years in my 300 win mag, wouldn't change a thing.

Mark, Thanks for the heads up on the powder types.
HTDuck, That explains the muzzle flash, Thanks.

Vapodog, Thanks for the suggestion about the best load, but we Aussies don`t shoot roos over here, It`s illegal !

Reloader, Sako & Stark Thankyou for your suggestions.

I think I`ll venture to the local range on Saturday with a bucket load of different powder weights & go from there.

Cheers Morton

Vhit 160, 550, 560 and slightly heavier pills (165 and 180 grns).