Hodgdon CFE 223 powder has rapidly become a favorite among reloaders for its versatility and performance in the .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges. This in-depth guide will explore its characteristics, benefits, and considerations for safe and effective reloading. We'll delve into its burn rate, applications, and compare it to other popular powders to help you decide if CFE 223 is the right choice for your reloading needs.
Understanding Hodgdon CFE 223 Powder
CFE 223 is an extruded powder, meaning it's manufactured through a process that creates a consistent, uniform grain shape. This contributes to its excellent metering characteristics, crucial for achieving accurate and consistent powder charges in your reloading process. Its relatively low density also makes it easier to handle and less prone to static cling, further improving the reloading experience.
Key Characteristics and Benefits:
- Consistent Metering: The extruded nature of CFE 223 ensures highly consistent powder charges, minimizing variations between rounds. This leads to improved accuracy and reduces the risk of pressure variations.
- Low Flash and Smoke: This powder produces less flash and smoke compared to some other propellants, making it a good choice for indoor or low-light shooting conditions.
- Versatile Application: CFE 223 performs well across a range of bullet weights and velocities, making it suitable for various applications, from target shooting to self-defense loads.
- Reduced Recoil: While not significantly less than other powders, many reloaders report a slightly softer recoil impulse with CFE 223.
- Clean Burning: CFE 223 is known for producing relatively clean burning characteristics, reducing fouling in your firearm.
Burn Rate and Applications:
CFE 223 sits in the medium burn rate range for pistol and rifle powders. This makes it suitable for a wide spectrum of bullet weights in the .223 Remington/.556 NATO cartridge. It works exceptionally well with projectiles ranging from 55 grains to 77 grains, providing excellent accuracy and velocity across this spectrum. However, it's crucial to consult your chosen reloading manual for specific load data to ensure safe and accurate loads for your particular firearm.
Comparing CFE 223 to Other Powders
While CFE 223 excels in many areas, it's essential to compare it to other popular .223 powders to understand its place in the market. Several powders, including Varget, TAC, and IMR 8208XBR, are also frequently used for .223 Remington/.556 NATO reloading. These powders may exhibit different burn rates, metering characteristics, and performance profiles. Choosing the right powder ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences, such as desired velocity, accuracy, and availability.
Safety Precautions:
Always consult a reputable reloading manual before attempting to load any ammunition. Never substitute data from different manuals or sources. Improper reloading can lead to dangerous pressure increases, causing damage to your firearm and potentially causing serious injury. This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional reloading instruction and safety procedures. Accurate measurement and adherence to safety guidelines are paramount.
Conclusion:
Hodgdon CFE 223 powder presents a compelling option for reloaders of .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. Its consistent metering, versatility, and clean burning characteristics make it a popular choice for both target shooters and those seeking dependable self-defense loads. However, always prioritize safety and consult your reloading manual for precise load data specific to your firearm and chosen bullet weight. Remember, safe and responsible reloading practices are essential.
