Has anybody tried this new powder out yet? I've heard some outstanding reviews on it and looks like it should be a real winner for the 204. I checked up on some of our local suppliers and they said it will probably be at least 6 months to a year before we see any of it out here.
That's okay cuz that will give me some time to "burn up" about 25 lbs of assorted powders that I have on hand.
Hodgdon powder's big news is IMR8028. This a powder that is supposed to bring temperature stability to a new level. It's designed for the smaller to medium centrefires ranging from 204 Ruger to the 308 Win. They said that in a 308 with Temp extremes from -20 F to 165 F there was only 17 fps of difference. For the 204 shooters they are listing a recipe of 29.0 gr of 8208, 32 gr Hornady V-Max, Fed 205M primer and a COL of 2.250 as producing 4130 fps. If that's realistic it's no slouch in the speed department either.
From what I've seen don't believe its as stabile in temps as they claim. In limited testing in a 6ppc its not. Great accuracy and a fairly wide window but velocitys do not remain stagnant in temp differentials.
In the 204 I ran one Audette ladder. With 32bks it was'nt hard to broach 4300fps. Accuracy? not with the barrel I tested. This stinkin barrel is being a real drag to get shooting. Only pill that I've found that works in it is the short 34 Dogtown. I think its a 16 twist masquerading as a 12 Wish I had more info for ya but so far thats it.
I bought two 8 LB kegs of it and plan to try it soon in my .204, .22-250, and 6MM BR rifles. MY first tasking will be to compare it directly to my tried and true .204 load of 27.5 H4895 - 39 gr. SBK. I'll compare using powder as the only variable to see how it stacks up in my custom .204 and will report back here when I am finished. I have high hopes for this powder. If the brench rest circuit boys are using it, you can bet it is a good powder!
Wish I had more info for ya but so far thats it.
