Old Gun Powder

[Charlie54]

A friend who does not shoot anymore because of health problems has some powder he’ll sell me. I don’t think he has shot since around 2000, so the powder is at least 10 years old, and not older than 15, I’ll find out for sure when I look at it. My question is, if I know what he tells me is right, and I know that the powder has been kept cool and dry, would it still be accurate to shoot with? I don’t think powder has a shelf life, but I wonder if it loses its zip if it sits too long.
Thanks

Also, I see Cabela’s has a big selection of CCI primers on its WEB site if anyone is interested.

 

[dmiculek]

I'm 53 and shooting powder that's a least as old as me.
If it is in factory containers and you have no worries that it has been swapped or mixed it's age would not concern me.

 

[Gator 45/70]

I ran some h-4895 awhile back that was made in 1985, All went bang. I say you should be good to go.

 

[Charlie54]

Thanks for the replies! I wouldn’t normally mess with it, but he has powders I need but can’t seem to find anywhere, h4350, Varget and N140.

 

[Storm52]

Agree to above.

 

[candrews86]

I've reloaded with powder from the early 70's here recently and chronographed the bullets with same as new velocity. DRY storage is the key. As long as its been stored in room temperature and with no humidity, you should be fine. It used to be a problem because they used to put powder in those paper made canisters and it wasnt sealed as good as todays plastic containers.

 

[Gator 45/70]

I have some varget powder, but I prefer 4895 keep me In mind if you run across any in your new find.

Thanks for the replies! I wouldn’t normally mess with it, but he has powders I need but can’t seem to find anywhere, h4350, Varget and N140.

 

[Charlie54]

I have some varget powder, but I prefer 4895 keep me In mind if you run across any in your new find.

Sure will. when he gets back from vacation i'm going to go look at it.