The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Is there a bias against ball powder? Why?

**Mike Irwin** · September 22, 2013, 10:32 AM

Bias against ball powder? I'd say no, especially given that ball powder is the most popular type used for handgun propellants given the sheer number of offerings.

A lot of people complain about metering problems with IMR type powders, that is true.

But IMR powders are INCREDIBLY forgiving when it comes to variations in charge weight, far more so than ball powders.

I've tried ball powders in a number of my rifles, and I always keep going back to IMR powders. It's just what I like, I guess.

September 22, 2013, 10:32 AM	#19
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 13, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,381	Bias against ball powder? I'd say no, especially given that ball powder is the most popular type used for handgun propellants given the sheer number of offerings. A lot of people complain about metering problems with IMR type powders, that is true. But IMR powders are INCREDIBLY forgiving when it comes to variations in charge weight, far more so than ball powders. I've tried ball powders in a number of my rifles, and I always keep going back to IMR powders. It's just what I like, I guess. __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.