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I don't. I have heard that ball powders are harder to ignite compared to stick powders even if they share a comparable burn rate? I wonder if there is more to it than just the burn rate?Burn rate chart is the most common predictor
Do you have data on the energy required for ignition?
Anybody that hand loads should have that on their table and be aware of how it relates to powder choices.
That's different! It's kind of a pain searching through the columns to see where a powder falls. I might print that out. I wish I could find one that has all the new(er) powders too.
TLDR, blew myself up.I've only been reloading for 4 years, but the first thing I learned after "MUCH" research is to have patience. Reloading is not something you want to rush through. The results can be life-altering. Sometimes if it's a pain, it may avoid physical pain for life.
There are many resources for researching which powder to choose. Take your time and do lots of research and compare different sources of information.
Generally, only use published load data if you are new to reloading. If you're using a powder (or bullets) you're not familiar with, start on the low end of the powder charge and work up, checking each case for signs of high pressure; scratches or bulges at the base, or any crack developing on the case.
Always inspect each case you reload before building each round to be sure you are using brass in top condition. There's much more, but you get the idea.
It's a hobby for you to definately have patience with. Don't rush it!
"Are you concerned over primer choice as an ignition source, or using something else?"Simplest answer is to experiment.
Ball vs. Stick are different manufacturing processes with different surface coatings.
Are you concerned over primer choice as an ignition source, or using something else?
I figured this is where you were headed. I'll start with this:Using something else or using less conventional primer choices
I was thinking back to an experiment a member or members were doing with reloading primers. I don't know what came of it but I am guessing if they got it work the primers would be on the weak side and they would want the easiest powder to ignite for the cartridge bullet combo they were loading.I figured this is where you were headed. I'll start with this:
I have tested Standard and Magnum primers using identical eight shot ladders of H335 in .223 and found no measurable difference in speed or accuracy of the projectile, so results were inconclusive. But to me, a better test would be using a larger volume of powder which I believe is what magnum primers were designed for in the first place.
I have done the comparison of black powder vs smokeless, but I have also put a match to each powder I use and there are definite differences. I have thought about taking some time to test different ignition sources such as flint & steel, gas torch striker, piezo igniter and an "arc" cigarette lighter, but doing these types of things outside would not be a good example for the neighbor kids, and doing it in the garage always got me in trouble.
Good talk.
I'm still somewhat confused as to whether mag primers have a hotter fire, a thicker cup to handle higher pressures in magnum rounds, or both. OR? It depends on the primer manufacturer?But to me, a better test would be using a larger volume of powder which I believe is what magnum primers were designed for in the first place.