Description
Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder Overview
Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder is a versatile, medium-burning, double-base spherical smokeless powder designed primarily for use in handgun cartridges, though it can also be used in certain rifle applications. It is particularly effective in providing consistent performance and high velocity in a variety of popular pistol calibers, such as 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Accurate #5 is favored by reloaders for its clean burn, smooth metering, and the ability to generate consistent velocities without excessive recoil.
This powder’s medium burn rate makes it ideal for achieving balanced loads in handgun cartridges, where a blend of velocity and recoil management is critical. It works well in both target shooting and personal defense ammunition, offering shooters a reliable and efficient option for reloading.
Key Features of Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder:
-
Burn Rate: Medium
-
Type: Double-base spherical powder
-
Cartridge Compatibility: Ideal for medium to large handgun calibers such as 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and others.
-
Performance: Consistent velocities, clean burning, and excellent metering properties.
-
Packaging: Available in 1 lb and 8 lb containers.
Benefits:
-
Medium Burn Rate: Accurate #5 provides a medium burn rate that is ideal for achieving balanced performance in medium to large handgun calibers. It offers a good mix of velocity without excessive recoil.
-
Clean Burning: Accurate #5 burns cleanly, minimizing residue buildup in the barrel and reducing the frequency of firearm cleaning.
-
Reduced Recoil: It is designed to provide less recoil compared to faster-burning powders, which is especially beneficial for those shooting full-power loads or performing long shooting sessions.
-
Consistency: The spherical grain structure ensures smooth metering and consistent charges, improving the precision of reloads and promoting uniform velocity.
-
Versatility: Works well with a wide variety of handgun calibers and is an excellent choice for both target shooting and defensive load development.
Reloading Considerations:
-
Powder Charge: As always with reloading, it is essential to start with the minimum recommended charge and work up gradually, carefully monitoring for signs of excessive pressure such as flattened primers or excessive recoil.
-
Primers: Small and large pistol primers are typically used, but always refer to specific load data to ensure the correct primer is selected.
-
Cartridge Selection: Best suited for popular handgun calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and similar cartridges. Also works in certain smaller rifle applications.
-
Safety: Always follow load data and manufacturer recommendations to ensure safe, reliable, and accurate performance.
Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder Load Data Table (Example):
Cartridge | Bullet Weight | Starting Load (grains) | Max Load (grains) | Velocity (fps) | Pressure (psi) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
9mm Luger | 115 gr | 4.0 | 4.5 | 1,200 | 35,000 |
9mm Luger | 124 gr | 3.8 | 4.3 | 1,150 | 35,000 |
.40 S&W | 165 gr | 5.5 | 6.2 | 1,100 | 35,000 |
.40 S&W | 180 gr | 5.2 | 5.8 | 1,050 | 35,000 |
.45 ACP | 230 gr | 5.5 | 6.0 | 850 | 23,000 |
Note: Load data is for reference only. Always consult the latest reloading manuals and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety.
Safety Tips:
-
Start Low: Begin with the minimum recommended load and gradually increase, carefully monitoring for pressure signs. Overcharging can lead to dangerous overpressure.
-
Use Proper Primers: Use the correct type of primer (small or large pistol) for your load and cartridge. Magnum primers may be used in some cases, but it’s important to consult load data for each specific application.
-
Accurate Metering: Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder meters smoothly due to its spherical shape, but always double-check charge weights to ensure consistency in your loads.
-
Storage: Keep powder in a cool, dry environment and away from heat sources, flames, and moisture to ensure stability and safety.
Conclusion:
Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder is a high-performance powder that provides reloaders with the ideal balance of velocity and reduced recoil for a variety of popular handgun cartridges. Whether you’re reloading for target shooting, personal defense, or practice, Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder delivers clean, consistent burns and high velocities with manageable recoil. Its spherical granules allow for easy metering and precise charges, making it a reliable choice for reloaders who seek quality and consistency in their loads. Whether you’re using it in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, or other compatible calibers, Accurate #5 Smokeless Powder is a dependable powder for your handgun reloading needs.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.