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These powder shortages have me scrounging through my reloading cabinet to see what old powders I might have that I could use for reloading .223; normally use Varget, but I've given up on finding any of that. I found some old IMR 4198 that should work for the lighter bullets, but from what I can remember it's about 25 years old. Anyone know if powder that old is still safe? It's been stored in the original can in a dry place and seems normal in appearance and consistency.
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As long as it was sealed, it should be fine. If anything, the powder may have dried out some and burn slightly slower then intended. Not a worry with .223 since 4198 burns pretty quick for that caliber anyway.
All of the old surplus spam cans had ammo made in the sixties and seventies, but you see it used all over the range these days. No complaints there!Anyway...here's a dearth of reasoning to ponder: http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Guns
Originally posted by movie zombie -
I'm sure it's fine. Smell it to be sure.Chris
<----Rimfire Addict
Originally posted by OceanbobComment
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If stored properly, it should be fine. I use 473AA for many of my 12ga loads and from what I've heard, that stuff was discontinued over twenty years ago. The powder I have is a good bit older than that and works great!Comment
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I had a can of IMR 4831...yes I said can thats how old it was and it all fired fine in my 30-06 check it first for smell before loading itOn the blue side
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Thanks for the feedback. It smells fine to me; guess I'll use it.Comment
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It should be fine then. I am loading powder I got in the 1960's and it works just fine.A 30cal will reach out and touch them. A 50cal will kick their butt.
NRA Life Member, NRA certified RSO & Basic Pistol Instructor, Hunter, shooter, reloader
SCI, Manteca Sportsmen Club, Coalinga Rifle Club, Escalon Sportsmans Club, Waterford Sportsman Club & NAHA Member, Madison Society memberComment
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as mentioned a good ole sniff test. im guessing its fineComment
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Last year I shot some 38Spc & 357's that my father loaded up in the early 70's. They all shot fine. Load em shoot em and smile!!!If you want change you have to put in your 2 cents, you can't just sit on the sidelines and whine.Comment
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I am going through powder from 1998. without any problem . As mentioned how does it look and smell?California's politicians and unionized government employees are a crime gang that makes the Mexican drug cartels look like a Girl Scout Troop in comparison.Comment
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I am using Herco that is at least 40 years old. Great stuff."Life is a long song" Jethro TullComment
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