Alliant Powder's 20/28 is a popular choice among reloaders, known for its versatility and suitability across a range of handgun and rifle cartridges. This in-depth analysis explores its characteristics, applications, and performance, helping you determine if it's the right powder for your reloading needs.
Understanding Alliant 20/28's Composition and Properties
Alliant 20/28 is a spherical extruded powder, meaning it's manufactured in a consistent, uniform spherical shape. This contributes to its excellent metering characteristics, crucial for consistent reloading results. Its exact composition is proprietary information, but it's generally known to be a relatively fast-burning powder, making it ideal for cartridges that require moderate to high pressures.
Key Characteristics:
- Spherical shape: Ensures consistent metering and reduced variations in charge weights.
- Fast burning rate: Suitable for various handgun and rifle cartridges, particularly those with shorter barrels.
- Versatile applications: Effective across a wide range of calibers and bullet weights.
- Clean burning: Generally produces minimal fouling, reducing the frequency of cleaning.
Alliant 20/28 Applications: Handgun and Rifle Cartridges
The versatility of 20/28 shines through its suitability for a broad spectrum of cartridges. While not exhaustive, here are some common applications:
Handgun Cartridges:
- .38 Special: Provides good accuracy and velocity for both lead and jacketed bullets.
- .357 Magnum: Delivers excellent performance in this powerful revolver cartridge.
- 9mm Luger: A reliable choice for various bullet weights, offering decent velocity and accuracy.
- .40 S&W: Offers a solid balance of power and control.
- .45 ACP: While not the most powerful option, 20/28 provides reliable performance.
Rifle Cartridges:
- .223 Remington/.556 NATO: Effective for plinking and practice rounds, offering decent accuracy. (Note: Other powders might be better suited for higher-velocity applications).
- .30 Carbine: Provides good performance for this popular cartridge.
Performance Considerations and Safety Precautions
When using Alliant 20/28, it's crucial to consult the Alliant Powder loading data specifically for your chosen cartridge and bullet weight. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge weight listed in the data. Incorrect loads can lead to dangerous pressure spikes and potential damage to your firearm.
Always adhere to safe reloading practices:
- Use a reliable reloading scale: Ensuring accurate powder charges is paramount for safety and consistency.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions carefully: Consult the powder manufacturer's data and abide by all safety instructions.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection: This is essential during the reloading process.
- Store powder properly: Keep powder in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition.
Alliant 20/28: Conclusion
Alliant 20/28 stands out as a versatile and reliable powder option for many handgun and some rifle cartridges. Its consistent metering, clean burning properties, and suitability for diverse applications make it a popular choice among reloaders. However, always prioritize safety and consult the appropriate loading data to ensure safe and optimal performance. Remember that individual results may vary, and experimentation within safe parameters is often necessary to optimize load development.
