Alliant Blue Dot Smokeless Gun Powder

Alliant Blue Dot Smokeless Gun Powder

Overview: Alliant Blue Dot is a high-performance smokeless powder designed primarily for heavy handgun loads, magnum handgun cartridges, and shotshells. Known for its slow burn rate, Blue Dot is perfect for producing magnum-level velocities and pressures. It delivers excellent consistency, making it ideal for shooters who need reliable performance in both handgun and shotshell applications, particularly in calibers like .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and for hunting shotgun loads.

Key Features:

• Slow Burn Rate:
  Blue Dot features a relatively slow burn rate, which is beneficial for heavy magnum handgun loads and large shotshell loads. This allows the powder to achieve higher velocities and pressures, making it a go-to powder for powerful loads.

• Versatility:
  While Blue Dot is most commonly associated with magnum handgun cartridges, it is also widely used for shotshell loads, including high-performance hunting loads in 12-gauge and other shotguns. It can be used across a wide range of calibers and applications.

• Clean Burning:
  Blue Dot is known for its clean-burning characteristics, producing less residue in the barrel and reducing the need for frequent cleaning after use.

• Consistent Performance:
  Shooters can rely on Blue Dot for uniform velocities and pressures, which results in precise and accurate shooting performance, especially in heavy-duty or magnum-level loads.

Specifications:

• Powder Type: Smokeless powder

• Granule Size: Medium to large grains

• Burn Rate: Slow, ideal for high-pressure, full-power loads

• Applications:

  • Magnum handgun loads (e.g., .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .45 Colt)
  • High-performance shotshell loads (12-gauge, 20-gauge)

• Storage Requirements:

  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Keep containers tightly sealed to avoid moisture or contamination.

• Available Quantities:
  Available in 1 lb and 8 lb canisters.

Performance Characteristics:

• Muzzle Velocity:
  Blue Dot powder is ideal for producing high velocities, especially in magnum handgun calibers. It provides the power needed for long-range and heavy-duty loads.

• Recoil:
  The recoil generated by Blue Dot is typically moderate to heavy, which is typical for magnum loads and high-performance shotshells. Shooters using this powder can expect a firm recoil, especially in heavy handgun calibers.

• Pressure:
  As a slow-burning powder, Blue Dot creates high pressures, making it best suited for magnum handgun calibers and heavy shotshells. It should be used carefully to ensure the firearm can handle the pressures generated by these loads.

Use Cases:

1. Magnum Handgun Loads:
   Blue Dot is perfect for creating heavy, high-velocity loads in magnum handgun cartridges such as .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt. It’s ideal for hunting, long-range shooting, or self-defense loads that need extra power.

2. High-Performance Shotshell Loads:
   Blue Dot is commonly used in shotshell reloading, especially for hunting loads in 12-gauge shotguns. It provides the energy needed for heavier shot payloads and longer ranges.

3. Heavy Target Loads:
   In both shotguns and handguns, Blue Dot can be used to create full-power target loads, especially for shooting disciplines where high power and accuracy are required.

Cartridge Examples and Typical Load Data:

• .357 Magnum:

  • Approximate charge: 13.5 to 15.5 grains for full-power magnum loads.

• .44 Magnum:

  • Approximate charge: 18.5 to 21.0 grains for full-power magnum loads.

• .45 Colt:

  • Approximate charge: 10.5 to 12.0 grains for magnum-style loads.

• 12-Gauge Shotgun:

  • Approximate charge: 24.0 to 28.0 grains for heavy hunting loads (using 1-1/4 oz to 1-1/2 oz shot loads).

(Note: Always refer to the latest Alliant reloading data or manuals for specific load recommendations, as these values can vary by shot type, bullet weight, and firearm.)

Safety Notes:

• Double-Check Load Data:
  Always use a reliable reloading manual or the Alliant Reloading Data Center when selecting load data. This ensures you avoid overcharging the cartridge and prevents dangerous situations from occurring.

• Proper Storage:
  Store Blue Dot powder in a safe location, away from heat, flames, or sources of ignition. Keep the containers tightly sealed and protected from moisture.

• Pressure Awareness:
  Since Blue Dot generates high pressures, it’s essential to ensure that your firearm is rated to handle these levels. Follow recommended load data and use the proper components to ensure safe reloading practices.

Summary:

Alliant Blue Dot is a go-to powder for handloaders looking to create high-performance magnum handgun loads and powerful shotshells. Its slow burn rate delivers the high pressures and velocities needed for full-power magnum cartridges, making it perfect for hunting and self-defense applications. Blue Dot’s clean burning and consistent performance make it a reliable choice for reloading enthusiasts who want to push the power and accuracy of their loads.