Safe way to determine if Powder is still Good?

[TygerAR]

I have some Smokeless Powder that I stored in a igloo cooler for 12 years. I'd like to know if it's still good before I start loading a few hundred rounds. Any ideas or do in just need to load some and shoot if off. Thanks

[jsanch03]

Biggest threat to powder is moisture specially if that moisture is holding in the powder over a long period of time. Best way to test it out is to pour a little out on a bottle cap and light it on fire. See if it ignites. Also check if the powder has developed a an orangish hue to it. It’s it’s turning orange then it’s degrading

[Duck Killer]

12 years is nothing on powder. I have powder from the 40s and 50s I am still using. Check for clumps and smelling weird.

[TygerAR]

Ok thanks. I store them with 9 packs of dehumidifier. Still looks and smells fresh. Maybe I'll light off a grain. I'm going to assume it's still good.

[ar15barrels]

Bad powder smells like rotten eggs and is often clumpy.

[Frosty1*]

A long time ago, I got a super deal on some old powder from an old timer. It was in Oregon, so I was worried about moisture. He told me that if I used a 60 Watt bulb, about 12" above an opened can of powder, it would evaporate away the moisture if there was any. I used one of those long arm lamps and tried that. I did not have any problems with the powder. jmho