Military Surplus Powder

The Ultimate Guide to Military Surplus Powder

For the discerning reloader looking to maximize their range time without minimizing their wallet, military surplus powder presents an unparalleled opportunity. At Reloading Supplies Store, we specialize in sourcing verified lots of these bulk propellants, offering you a cost-effective path to high-volume reloading. These powders, originally produced for military applications like 7.62mm NATO and 5.56mm ammunition, are known for their robust performance, temperature stability, and exceptional value. Navigating the world of surplus gun powder requires a bit more knowledge than buying commercial brands, but the rewards in performance and savings are substantial for those who do their homework.

What Exactly is Military Surplus Powder?

Military surplus reloading powder consists of propellants that were originally manufactured under strict military contracts. This supply becomes available for commercial sale through various channels, such as the demilitarization of old stock or the sale of overruns. It's crucial to understand that we deal not in obscure or dangerous unknowns, but in identifiable, lot-tested powders that often have direct commercial equivalents. This allows savvy reloaders to purchase bulk gunpowder with known burn rates and reliable data. The primary appeal of surplus smokeless powder is its price-to-performance ratio, offering a way to affordably feed high-volume shooting disciplines like practical rifle competition or long-range plinking.

Key Advantages of Choosing Surplus Powders

The decision to integrate military surplus powder into your reloading routine comes with several distinct benefits that extend beyond just low cost.

• Significant Cost Savings: This is the most compelling advantage. By purchasing cheap reloading powder in bulk quantities, you can dramatically reduce your cost per round. This makes consistent practice and competition financially sustainable.
• Proven Performance and Reliability: These powders were engineered to meet rigorous military specifications for reliability, temperature stability, and consistent velocity across a wide range of environmental conditions. When you find a good lot of surplus rifle powder, you are often getting a propellant that outperforms its commercial price point.
• Ideal for Bulk Reloading: The availability of military surplus powder in 8-pound jugs or larger containers makes it the perfect choice for reloaders who process ammunition in large batches. This supports an efficient workflow for shooting disciplines that consume hundreds of rounds per session.

Important Considerations and Safety Practices

Working with surplus gun powder demands a responsible and informed approach. Unlike commercial powders with published load data for specific cartridges, surplus powders require a more nuanced methodology.

• The Criticality of Lot-Specific Data: The most important rule when using military surplus powder is to acquire and follow load data specific to your purchased lot number. Burn rates can vary between different lots of the same type of powder. We strive to provide as much information as possible, including likely commercial equivalents.
• The Necessity of Safe Load Development: You must always begin with the starting load and work up carefully while watching for pressure signs. Never assume a load from a different lot or a different rifle is safe in your firearm. This process of careful load development is non-negotiable for safety.
• Proper Storage and Handling: Like all smokeless powders, bulk surplus powder should be stored in a cool, dry place in its original container. Proper storage is key to maintaining its stability and longevity over time.

A Closer Look at Common Surplus Powder Types

While the specific powders available will change, several types have become staples in the surplus market due to their versatility and performance.

Surplus 7.62mm NATO Powders (e.g., WC 846)

This is one of the most common and versatile surplus rifle powders on the market. It is a ball powder that is often considered a direct equivalent to Hodgdon BL-C(2) or Accurate 2495. Its burn rate makes it exceptionally well-suited for a wide range of .30 caliber cartridges. If you are looking for a cheap 308 powder for loading .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO, .223 Remington, or even .30-06 Springfield, a powder like WC 846 is an excellent candidate. It meters superbly through powder measures, making it ideal for progressive press setups.

Surplus 5.56mm NATO Powkins (e.g., WC 844)

Another extremely popular spherical powder, WC 844 is a close relative to Hodgdon H335. It is the go-to choice for reloaders seeking a surplus 223 powder for their AR-15 platforms and other .223 Remington rifles. It offers a fast burn rate that is optimized for the .223 cartridge, providing excellent velocity and reliable cycling in semi-automatic firearms. Its consistent metering and clean-burning characteristics make it a favorite for high-volume shooters who need a reliable bulk 223 powder.

Surplus .50 BMG Powders (e.g., 5010)

For shooters venturing into the realm of large-bore rifles, surplus 50 cal powder offers massive savings. A powder like IMR 5010 is a slow-burning, extruded propellant designed specifically for the .50 Browning Machine Gun cartridge. It is not suitable for standard rifle calibers but is perfect for those reloading for .50 BMG rifles. The cost savings when buying this powder in bulk for such a large cartridge are arguably greater than for any other type of reloading.

Identifying Your Surplus Powder and Finding Load Data

Successfully and safely using military surplus powder hinges on correct identification.

• Cross-Referencing with Commercial Equivalents: The first step is to use the information provided by your retailer. When we list a powder as "similar to Hodgdon H335," that gives you a critical starting point for your research.
• Utilizing Online Reloading Communities: Forums and reloading databases are invaluable resources. Searching for your specific lot number can often yield detailed experiences and tested load data from other reloaders.
• The Powder Burn Rate Chart: Consulting a smokeless powder burn rate chart can help you visually place your surplus powder relative to commercial powders you may already be familiar with, giving you a better understanding of its position in the spectrum from fast to slow-burning.

Why Reloading Supplies Store is Your Best Source for Surplus Powder

In a market where information is as important as the product itself, choosing a reputable supplier is critical. We differentiate ourselves by providing not just products, but peace of mind.

• Verified and Sourced for Reliability: We go to great lengths to source our military surplus powder from reputable channels, providing detailed product descriptions, including known equivalents and applicable calibers.
• Transparent Product Information: We believe an informed customer is a safe customer. We provide as much lot-specific information as possible to aid in your load development process.
• Competitive Bulk Pricing: Our business model is built on offering value. We pass the savings from our bulk purchases directly to you, ensuring you get the best possible price on surplus powder.
• Secure Shipping and Handling: We are equipped to ship your bulk surplus gunpowder order safely and efficiently, ensuring it arrives at your door ready for your reloading bench.

Start Saving with Military Surplus Powder Today

If you are ready to dive into the world of high-value, high-performance reloading, browse our current selection of military surplus powder in stock for sale. Whether you need a versatile ball powder for your .308 reloads or a dedicated propellant for your .50 BMG, we have the proven options to meet your needs. Stock up on cheap shooting supplies without compromising on quality. Place your order for surplus gun powder today and experience the reloading savings that serious shooters rely on.