OT-Powder question: WC860?

[awp101]

Found an 8# jug at at a local shop, never heard of it. Nondescript white jug with no name that I can recall on the label.

Worth getting a price check on? Main calibers it's used for?

Thanks!

[jhrosier]

WC860 is a very slow burning powder that can be used in the .50BMG and some of the large capacity magnum rifle calibers. It is said to be similar to H870 and AA8700.
Before all of the prices went nuts, it sold for around $20 for a 8# jug. It is a military surplus powder salvaged from 20mm ammo.

Some folks have used full cases of WC860 with cast bullets in the 45-70. It leaves a lot of unburned powder behind when used for low pressure applications. Sometimes they use a 'booster charge' of faster burning powder to get it going.

I have thought of trying it but don't feel comfortable that far into uncharted territory.

Jack

[awp101]

Thanks, I'll leave it there then.

Iffn's I had a .50 or 20mm though...