n5638b

Got a powder question for eveybody. Had a friend give me 2 containers of powder her husband used for reloading before he passed away. One's marked Hodgen 4831, the other simply 4895.
These containers are not original powder bottles.
I load with IMR 4895 (41.5 grains) so I know what that looks like in my 308 case. Load data for Hodgen 4895 says start with 40 grains. When I load that, I can't even seat the bullet it's so full of powder. Have not tried the "4831" yet and obviously am not going to shoot anything with this stuff until I can figure out what it really is.
So here's my question. Anybody have a way/method to determine what these powders are?
Each container has about 4.5 pounds of powder in each. Hate to use that up just to make my kids a flaming volcano...

Thanks

iowabuckslayer

BURN IT!!! Pour it in a nice fine line and light it. I will make some very pretty flames.

Using powder you are not sure about is good way get a new gun though. Maybe even one of those where someone has to tell you when you are on the target.

Bernie P.

+1!!!There's no way to know for certain what you've got.

HEAD0001

Old Powder is the ultimate fertilizer. Take it out in your yard to the bad spots and spread it sparingly on the bad areas. They will be nice and green next year.

Using a powder that you are not 110% sure of. That is asking for trouble. Tom.