vihtauvori users out there?

[jlvandersnick]

The late Glen Zediker mentions N135 in his original book, The Competitive AR15 as it was one of the first Viht grades imported into the US and was initially adopted by many 223 XTC shooters. He noted though that it later fell out of fashion and saw very little use with the 80gn SMK after many users suffered pressure induced problems, and those who stuck with Viht powders moved to N140 after it began to be imported into the US.

Having loaded 223 with everything from 53s to 90s over 20+ years and used Viht grades for over 30 years (we in the UK got them many years before the first can went across the Atlantic), I wouldn't advise this grade as first choice with heavy bullets in the cartridge if N140/540 are available. I won't say 'never' as individual barrels and chambers continuously surprise in this respect.

I just tested it recently with 77s seated out in a c. 150 thou' FB min-SAAMI 223 F-Class rifle and MVs were high, but overall performance poorer than VGT, H4895, Re15/Norma 203-B, N140 and 540. Also QuickLOAD is WAY out and seriously underestimates pressures / MVs, therefore overestimates useable / safe loads.

Thanks for the info. Good information

 

[jlvandersnick]

Be sure to work up as N135 can pierce primers in some rifles as you get near 23.5. Start probably mid 22s or less.

Appreciate the warning