Author Topic: Help me please (Read 460 times)

bobg · « **on:** April 23, 2003, 10:05:21 AM »

Hi folks,
I got ready to load for my new 25-35 131/2" Contender barrel today. Looked like 4895 was a good powder to start with. All my data is for H4895. Checked my powder supply and all i have is IMR4895. Is the IMR and H interchangeable. My burn rate chart lists them on the same line. Leading me to believe i should be able to switch one for the other. Can anyone tell me if this is correct?

Thanks for any help,
bobg :?

clodbuster · « **Reply #1 on:** April 23, 2003, 10:31:28 AM »

bobg- These and any two powders with the same number designation can and will vary in burn rate. In practical terms not all that much however.
Begin loading at the recommended reduced rate with either powder and work up, observing carefully for excess pressure signs and also be sure to use a chrono to check velocity. REMEMBER there is no magic load for any gun, if you are getting more velocity than the book says is maximum for that cartridge--BACKOFF. The weight of powder is not is not the best sign of a maximum load, velocity is what tells you you're there. Your barrel, chamber, bullet, brass, primer, powder and powder scale all impact what charge weight will be the max safe load in your gun. BE SAFE. Contenders are famous for not showing pressure signs and they are difficult to diagnose sometimes.

helobill · « **Reply #2 on:** April 23, 2003, 10:38:19 AM »

Only to make it muddy...all the books I have say they are "virtually identical" but they all list separate loads for each powder. Try the IMR web site at:
http://www.imrpowder.com/handgun/thomp_index.html they have one load listed for IMR 4895
Helicopter Bill

bobg · « **Reply #3 on:** April 23, 2003, 11:44:16 AM »

Thanks alot guys. I think i'll use IMR4895 and start low and work my way up. I always do that anyway. Just wanted to make sure i wasn't missing something and these powders weren't alot differant than i thought.

Thanks again guys,
bobg :-)