ARTICLES

Layne Simpson traces the 45-70 Government from its 1873 military origins to its continued role as a powerful and practical big-game hunting cartridge. The article explains the different pressure levels required for Trapdoor Springfields, modern lever actions, and strong single-shot rifles, while covering bullet choices, crimping techniques, case-length considerations, and powder options such as H322, IMR 3031, H4198, Varget, Blackhorn 209, and Trail Boss. With the right handloads, the 45-70 remains a highly effective cartridge for deer, elk, moose, and other big game, proving that this historic round still has plenty of modern hunting value.

This article explores Hodgdon FireStar pellets, highlighting their unique grooved design that improves ignition, increases velocity, and reduces fouling compared to traditional black powder substitutes. Field testing and real-world hunting results show exceptional consistency and accuracy, including tight groups and reliable performance in demanding conditions.

This article examines 9mm handloading performance in the SIG P320, the U.S. Army’s new service pistol, focusing on modern powders and proven bullet weights. Testing highlights consistent velocities, reliable function, and clean-burning performance with powders like CFE Pistol and Winchester 244 across a range of load combinations.

This article breaks down the 22 Nosler cartridge, highlighting its unique case design, increased powder capacity, and ability to outperform the .223 Remington in AR platforms. Extensive testing shows excellent accuracy and velocity across a wide range of bullet weights, with powders like CFE 223 and IMR 8208XBR delivering standout performance.

Winchester StaBALL 6.5 brings together the easy metering of a Ball powder with temperature insensitivity, copper fouling reduction, consistent velocities, and excellent accuracy. Steve Gash tests the powder across a wide range of cartridges, including 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 223 Remington, 22 Nosler, 270 Winchester, 7x57mm Mauser, and 30-06 Springfield. The results show StaBALL 6.5 to be a versatile, accurate, and efficient propellant especially well-suited for heavier bullets, long-range shooters, and big-game hunters.

The Story of Hodgdon Pyrodex Powder and the Reinvention of Black Powder Shooting