Powder ID

[Mark W]

I just purchased a 6.5-284 from a forum member that came with a few pieces of previously loaded ammo. The seller didn’t have any info on these loads. I used it to get the scope sighted in and then proceeded to shoot a four shot group in the .2s with the last few rounds. I saved the last round so that it could be dissected.

It was pretty easy to figure out that the bullets was a 139 Grain Lapua Scenar.

It was loaded with 50 grains of what appears to be H1000. The pic shows the unknown powder on the left and H1000 on the right. What are the odds that they are the same? I think 50 grains of H1000 is a little light for a 6.5-284.

 

[Kurz]

The pic shows the unknown powder on the left and H1000 on the left. What are the odds that they are the same?

Since both powders are on the left, I'd say the chances are great that they are the same powder...

There is this manual which is ostensibly reloading information but contains an assessment of the physical characteristics of each powder listed. They took the time to measure the grains and describe the coating for each powder. You could compare their findings with your measurements.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1018270747/propellant-profiles-sixth-edition-by-wolfe-publishing

The newest release is pricey so maybe a friend or relative has a copy you could borrow. Ask at your club or maybe at the next match. My copy is 1,200 miles away from me right now so I can't offer any help. Sorry.

Other than this, trying to determine an unknown powder can be very difficult.

 

[Mark W]

Since both powders are on the left, I'd say the chances are great that they are the same powder...

LMAO!! I edited to say that H1000 is on the right....lol

I did measure the kernel diameter with my calipers and both groups average out to the same number.

I’ve already got some Scenars ordered and couple of pounds of H1000 on hand do I’ll probably give it a try and see what happens.

 

[Kurz]

It's always fun to start the day off with a giggle!

Given your comparison, the grains do look very similar and yes, 50 gr. of H1000 is a bit light. I would expect 58.5 or even 59.0 for decent velocity. Did you happen to have any velocity data from the groups you shot?

 

[ShootDots]

If it was 50grs, it was a "good but somewhat light" load of H4831sc OR a "stout" load of H4350..