Powder

Rustybore · Jun 22, 2026

Has anyone used W231 powder? I was told it was dirty, but after I bot a pound for $20. I clean after shooting anyway.

MisterEd · Jun 22, 2026

Rustybore said:
Has anyone used W231 powder? I was told it was dirty, but after I bot a pound for $20. I clean after shooting anyway.

I used some LONG ago but can't remember anything about it.

Often when powder is described' as 'dirty' it's either due to unburned flakes OR low pressure loads that do not expand cases and they get blow by.

For example Unique has long been called 'dirty' but the reality is while Unique is a great powder - a lot of the data shows it in 5 grains or less and that is a big part of the problem.

Unique is not a particularly 'fast' powder and does not ignite well in less than 6-7 grains and is much better in longer brass like .38 & .357 (and others).

Currently I only use Unique in light .357 and .30-30 loads but because those are using more than what is shown for say 9mm and .45 ACP I get MUCH better ignition, no blowback or unburned flakes.

Rimfire Fanatic · Jun 22, 2026

I used 231 for reloading for bullseye competition for 45ACP, light loads. I also used it in 9mm loads for a high power. No problems. You may have problems with it all burning in a snubby though.

Rustybore · Jun 22, 2026

I plan to use it in .38spl. and.357 mag. Currently using Unique which i scored at last Klamath show and got 3 lbs/$25/lb. I was almost out of Unique and having a hard time finding it.

MisterEd · Jun 22, 2026

Rustybore said:
I was almost out of Unique and having a hard time finding it.

Universal is apparently a carbon copy of Unique. I have never used it but read this a lot from those who do but I haven't seen it in a long time either.

Rustybore · Jun 22, 2026

i think i am good to go with 4 plus lbs. of powder for the .38 stuff. .38 S&W is also one i reload. I enjoy shooting the victories. I have't heard anything about Universal.

Citified · Jun 23, 2026

I have used 231 in handgun loads for many years and keep some on hand always. I do not find it particularly dirty. Certainly less residue than Unique, but I use that also. Like you, I clean after every session.