Introduction
When it comes to reloading rifle cartridges, choosing the right powder is crucial for accuracy, consistency, and overall performance. H4895 Powder has long been a favorite among reloaders, but how does it compare to other popular rifle powders? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at H4895’s characteristics, compare it with alternative powders, and determine which applications it excels in.H4895 Powder in stock is a versatile rifle powder with origins in the 30-06 cartridge as a military powder. This is a historic powder for Hodgdon as it was the first powder sold by our founder, Bruce “B.E.” Hodgdon to the reloading public.
Overview of H4895 Powder
H4895 is a versatile, medium-burning rifle powder that was originally developed for the .30-06 Springfield military cartridge. Today, it is widely used in various calibers, including .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .243 Winchester. Some of its key features include:
- Consistent burn rate – Ensures reliable accuracy and minimal velocity variations.
- Temperature stability – Performs well in extreme hot or cold conditions.
- Reduced-recoil capability – Can be used for low-recoil loads, making it ideal for youth and beginner shooters.
- Clean-burning formula – Produces less fouling, reducing barrel wear over time.
H4895 vs. Other Popular Rifle Powders
1. H4895 vs. Varget
Similarities:
- Both powders are produced by Hodgdon and are known for their temperature stability.
- Suitable for similar calibers, including .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .223 Remington.
- Excellent for precision shooting due to their consistent burn rates.
Differences:
- Varget has a slightly slower burn rate than H4895, making it a better choice for heavier bullets in calibers like .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor.
- H4895 meters slightly better due to its fine granules, making it easier to use in powder measures.
- Reduced-recoil loads are possible with H4895 but not with Varget.
Best Uses:
- Choose H4895 if you need a versatile powder that works across multiple calibers and supports reduced-recoil loads.
- Choose Varget if you're looking for a powder that excels in heavier bullet weights for precision long-range shooting.
2. H4895 vs. IMR 4064
Similarities:
- Both powders work well in medium-sized rifle cartridges like .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield.
- Both offer excellent accuracy and clean burning.
Differences:
- IMR 4064 burns slightly slower than H4895, making it a good choice for heavy-bullet applications.
- H4895 is more temperature stable, while IMR 4064 may experience minor velocity fluctuations in extreme conditions.
- H4895 offers reduced-recoil load options, which IMR 4064 does not.
Best Uses:
- Choose H4895 if you want a more temperature-stable powder that supports reduced loads.
- Choose IMR 4064 if you need a powder that works well with heavier bullets in calibers like .30-06.
3. H4895 vs. Benchmark
Similarities:
- Both powders are great choices for small to medium rifle calibers like .223 Remington and .308 Winchester.
- Both provide consistent velocities and accuracy for competition shooting.
Differences:
- Benchmark is a faster-burning powder, making it better suited for lightweight bullets in calibers like .223 Remington.
- H4895 works across a broader range of calibers, making it more versatile.
- Benchmark meters more consistently, which can be an advantage for competitive shooters.
Best Uses:
- Choose H4895 if you reload multiple calibers and need a powder that supports both standard and reduced loads.
- Choose Benchmark if you are loading for lighter bullets in calibers like .223 Remington and need extremely consistent metering.
4. H4895 vs. CFE 223
Similarities:
- Both powders work well in .223 Remington and other semi-auto rifle cartridges.
- Both offer clean-burning properties.
Differences:
- CFE 223 contains a Copper Fouling Eraser additive, which helps reduce barrel fouling over time.
- H4895 is more versatile across various calibers, while CFE 223 is primarily focused on semi-auto rifles.
- H4895 supports reduced-recoil loads, whereas CFE 223 does not.
Best Uses:
- Choose H4895 if you want a well-rounded powder that works for multiple calibers, including bolt-action rifles.
- Choose CFE 223 if you primarily reload for .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO and want the benefit of reduced fouling.
5. H4895 vs. IMR 4895
Similarities:
- Both powders share the same origins and have very similar burn rates.
- Both work well in classic military cartridges like .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.
Differences:
- H4895 is slightly more temperature stable than IMR 4895, making it better for extreme conditions.
- IMR 4895 burns slightly dirtier, leading to more frequent barrel cleaning.
- H4895 supports reduced loads, while IMR 4895 does not have the same capabilities.
Best Uses:
- Choose H4895 if you want a more temperature-stable and cleaner-burning powder.
- Choose IMR 4895 if you're looking for an alternative that performs similarly in standard loads.
Which Powder is Best for Your Needs?
The choice between H4895 and other rifle powders depends on your specific reloading goals:
- For versatility across multiple calibers: H4895 is the best choice.
- For precision long-range shooting with heavier bullets: Varget or IMR 4064 may be better.
- For competition shooters looking for fine metering: Benchmark or CFE 223 could be more suitable.
- For semi-auto rifles and reduced fouling: CFE 223 is a strong contender.
- For shooters looking for reduced-recoil loads: H4895 is unmatched in this area.
Conclusion
H4895 Powder continues to be one of the best all-around rifle powders due to its versatility, temperature stability, and ability to work with reduced loads. While other powders like Varget, IMR 4064, and CFE 223 excel in specific applications, H4895 stands out for those who want a reliable powder that can be used across a wide range of calibers and bullet weights. Whether you're loading for hunting, competition, or general target shooting, H4895 remains a top-tier choice for reloaders looking for consistent performance.