Hodgdon H4350 is a popular, versatile propellant known for its excellent performance in a wide range of cartridges, particularly those demanding higher pressures. This guide provides comprehensive load data for H4350, emphasizing safety and accuracy. Always consult your own reloading manuals and other reputable sources for the most up-to-date and accurate load data before attempting any reloading. The information below serves as a general overview and should not be used as a sole reference.
Disclaimer: Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Improper reloading techniques can lead to serious injury or death. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional reloading advice. Always follow safety precautions and consult reputable reloading manuals. The author and publisher are not liable for any injuries or damages resulting from the use of this information.
Understanding Hodgdon H4350
H4350 is a high-performance extruded propellant known for its clean burning characteristics and consistent velocity. Its slower burning rate makes it suitable for larger cartridges requiring higher pressures to achieve optimal performance. This makes it a favorite among long-range shooters and hunters.
Factors Affecting Load Data
Several factors influence the appropriate load data for H4350:
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Cartridge Case: The specific cartridge case (e.g., .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Remington Magnum) significantly impacts the optimal powder charge. Case volume and dimensions directly affect pressure.
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Bullet Weight and Type: Heavier bullets generally require more powder to achieve similar velocities. Bullet design (e.g., boat-tail vs. flat-base) also plays a role in ballistic performance and, consequently, appropriate powder charges.
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Primer Type: While less impactful than other factors, the primer type can influence ignition characteristics and potentially affect overall pressure.
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Rifle/Barrel Characteristics: Barrel length and throat erosion can affect pressure and velocity. Always start at the minimum charge weight recommended for your specific setup.
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Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity can influence propellant performance. Adjustments might be necessary under extreme conditions, but this is generally outside the scope of most recreational reloaders.
Finding Reliable Load Data
Never rely solely on online sources for reloading data. Always consult multiple sources, including:
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Hodgdon's Official Website: The official Hodgdon website is the primary source for their propellant data. They provide detailed information and load manuals.
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Reputable Reloading Manuals: Manuals published by companies like Sierra Bullets, Hornady, Nosler, and others provide extensive data for various cartridges and projectiles.
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Reloading Magazines: Publications dedicated to reloading often feature load data and articles written by experienced reloaders.
Safety Precautions for Reloading with H4350
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Start Low, Go Slow: Always begin with the minimum powder charge listed in your chosen data source. Gradually increase the charge weight in small increments, carefully monitoring pressure signs.
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Double-Check Your Work: Meticulously check your measurements and ensure consistent case preparation. Inconsistent cases can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
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Use a Reloading Scale: A high-quality reloading scale is crucial for precise powder measurement. Never estimate powder charges.
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Observe Pressure Signs: Be aware of signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers, excessive case expansion, or unusually high chamber pressures. If you observe any of these signs, immediately cease reloading and adjust your loads accordingly.
Conclusion
Reloading with Hodgdon H4350 can provide accurate and cost-effective ammunition. However, safety should always be the paramount concern. By following established safety procedures, consulting reliable load data sources, and meticulously documenting your reloading process, you can enjoy the benefits of reloading while minimizing risks. Remember to always refer to your reloading manuals and other trustworthy sources for your specific cartridge and bullet combination. This information is for general guidance only and should not be substituted for professional advice.
