Is It Still Good?

[The Blackhawk Kid]

I found some Universal Clays powder, and some W296. They were stored in a dry cabinet for over 9 years. Both have been opened and used. Are they still OK to use? Also, what is SR 4756 powder used? I have 2 1lb unopened cans. 22-250? Thanks BHK

 

[Cholo]

I've got powder stored inside my home that must be over 30 years old. I'm sure it's still good. There's no need to worry if you know it's been stored properly.

 

[427mach1]

Smell it. Does it smell rancid? Is there a red dust covering it? If it smells okay and doesn't have any red dust, it is okay. I've got some 296 I bought in 1977 and it is still good.

SR4756 is for big handguns:

http://www.imrpowder.com/sr4756.html

 

[Rick Courtright]

Hi,

I'm still using Unique from some time in the mid-'70s, as well as 296 and Win 540 (discontinued) from probably almost the same vintage (definitely pre-1980.) All work "per the book."

"Properly stored" as Cholo said is the key to longevity of both powder and ammo.

Rick C

 

[The Blackhawk Kid]

Thanks guys. It looks good, no red dust, no rancid smell. I just found 8 lbs of WC 820. It's still sealed up! I think I got this for 44 mag hunting loads. Thanks for the info guys! BHK

 

[Pete]

SR4756 works great in 38 special and 32 H&R mag also!

 

[57springer]

I have powder from the 60's i inherited and it still works just fine

 

[The Blackhawk Kid]

Holy cow guys, thanks! I just bought 2 # of Unique at my lgs and the guy was stocking the shelves! Now if he had some w231 or hp38. I found 2 8# lb jugs of wc820 and my old recipies. I'm all set. BHK

 

[protoolman]

I Shot some 3031 in the old IMR cardboard cans this weekend in my 45-70 (1940's ?) And I load WWII surplus 4831 that was bought in bulk after the war in my 30-06. Both shoot right still. Both powders are far older than me.