ARTICLES

This article tells the story of Hodgdon 4831, tracing its origins from surplus military powder to a cornerstone of modern handloading, particularly in high-velocity rifle cartridges. Through personal experience and decades of use, it highlights the powder’s lasting performance, versatility, and enduring reputation among reloaders.

This staff report traces Hodgdon Powder Company’s history from Bruce Hodgdon’s first purchase of surplus 4895 powder in 1947 to the company’s 75th Anniversary in 2022. The article highlights major milestones including the launch of Pyrodex, the development of Clays and Varget, the acquisition of IMR, Goex, Accurate, Ramshot, and Blackhorn 209, and the introduction of modern technologies like CFE, Enduron, and Winchester StaBALL 6.5. More than a company timeline, it shows how the Hodgdon family helped shape handloading, support the shooting sports, and build a lasting legacy of innovation.

This article evaluates CFE BLK powder across multiple varmint cartridges, highlighting its high density, smooth metering, and ability to reduce copper fouling during extended shooting sessions. Results show strong accuracy and competitive velocities, particularly in cartridges like 17 Hornet and 221 Fireball, while also noting performance differences in larger case capacities.

This article breaks down the development of CFE BLK powder and its role in optimizing .300 AAC Blackout performance, especially in gas-operated AR platforms. Testing confirms reliable cycling, excellent accuracy, and minimal copper fouling across a wide range of bullet weights from 110 to 230 grains.

Originally designed to function in AR-type rifles, the 24 Nosler proves to be a capable hunting cartridge in other platforms, including the Nosler Custom Handgun. Steve Gash examines the cartridge’s design, compares its ballistic roots to other small-cased 6mm rounds, and tests a wide range of Hodgdon, IMR, and Winchester powders. His results show strong accuracy, excellent handloading flexibility, and standout performance from CFE 223, making the 24 Nosler a serious option for varmints, deer, antelope, and other medium-sized game.

This article explores Winchester 572 as a dual-purpose powder, originally designed for shotshells but highly effective in 9mm and .38 Super handloads. Testing shows strong accuracy, consistent velocities, and clean performance across a wide range of bullet weights and charge levels.