A Look into the Heart of CFE 223
The world of reloading offers a rewarding pathway to tailor ammunition, refine accuracy, and enjoy the shooting experience to its fullest. Among the myriad components that contribute to this craft, smokeless powder stands as a crucial element. Choosing the right powder can significantly impact performance, consistency, and overall satisfaction. Today, we’ll take a comprehensive look at one of the popular choices among reloaders: CFE 223. This article will delve into the specifics of this powder, providing a complete review to aid your reloading journey.
CFE 223 is a smokeless powder manufactured by Hodgdon Powder Company. It’s a medium-burn-rate powder, formulated specifically for various rifle calibers, making it a versatile option for many shooters. Released some time ago, it quickly gained a reputation for its performance, particularly in the .223 Remington cartridge, hence the name.
The “CFE” in CFE 223 refers to “Copper Fouling Eraser.” This unique technology is designed to reduce the buildup of copper fouling in your rifle barrel. This reduction in fouling can lead to improved accuracy, easier cleaning, and potentially extend the life of your barrel.
Its popularity stems from its ability to deliver a balance of performance, ease of use, and potentially, reduced maintenance through its CFE technology.
Understanding Its Build
CFE 223 presents itself in the form of small, flattened spherical grains. This shape contributes to its efficient metering through reloading equipment, which in turn makes it easier to achieve consistent powder charges. This consistency is a vital element in accuracy. The grain size is also carefully chosen to provide optimal loading density in various cartridge cases.
The medium burn rate is another key characteristic. This burn rate dictates how quickly the powder combusts, influencing the pressure curve within the cartridge and, therefore, the velocity and the type of bullet it is suitable for.
Load density, or the amount of space the powder takes up within the case, plays a crucial role. CFE 223 typically provides good load density in many cartridges, which contributes to more uniform ignition and often translates to better accuracy. The way CFE 223 fills the case is also important for consistent ignition, which is key for accuracy and reliability.
Performance Across the Caliber Spectrum
Let’s explore how CFE 223 performs in some of the most popular calibers it is designed for. We’ll look at its effectiveness across different bullet weights and how it translates into real-world results.
Shooting with 223 Remington
The .223 Remington is a cornerstone of the CFE 223 market. In this caliber, the powder truly shines. Many shooters and reloaders have achieved impressive results with this combination. It is ideally suited for bullet weights ranging from lighter projectiles to those in the mid-range. When paired with lighter bullets, CFE 223 can deliver exceptional velocities, making it a great option for varmint hunting and target shooting where a flatter trajectory is desired.
For mid-weight bullets, it provides a solid balance of speed and precision. It is frequently praised for producing groups that are consistently tight. To find the most accurate load for any rifle, it is advisable to experiment with different charge weights and bullet types.
Exploring Other Options
While the .223 Remington is the primary focus, CFE 223 has applications in other calibers.
In the .22-250 Remington, known for its high velocity, CFE 223 can provide outstanding results, pushing bullets to their maximum potential while helping maintain accuracy.
In .308 Winchester, CFE 223 can offer an option, especially with lighter to mid-weight bullets. However, reloaders will often experiment with other powders, to see if they can find even better performance in terms of velocity and accuracy.
When loading, always consult reliable sources, such as the Hodgdon reloading guide. These sources will provide you with accurate and safe loading data tailored to your specific bullet type, case, and primer. Using these sources is crucial to avoid overpressure situations and ensure a safe reloading process.
Common Recipes for Success
While specific recipes depend on your bullet and rifle, some popular load combinations can serve as a starting point.
For example, in .223 Remington, using a bullet in the range of grains, you might consider starting with a specific powder charge. Paired with a suitable primer and a properly sized case, you can start your journey to optimal performance and then fine-tune it from there. The goal is to find a load that consistently delivers tight groups at your desired range.
In .22-250 Remington, you may explore different bullet weights. Always carefully consult load data before creating a load.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
No powder is perfect, and understanding both the advantages and disadvantages is important to determine if CFE 223 is the right choice.
Reasons to Choose CFE 223
- Accuracy Potential: Many reloaders consistently report achieving excellent accuracy using CFE 223, especially in the 223 Remington. This is a primary reason for its widespread acceptance.
- Velocity Advantage: CFE 223 often provides excellent velocities, which is particularly appreciated for varmint hunting and long-range shooting.
- Copper Fouling Reduction: The CFE technology does seem to work, potentially reducing the need for frequent barrel cleaning.
- Ease of Use: Spherical powders like CFE 223 often meter very well, making it easier to achieve consistent powder charges during reloading.
- Availability and Price: Although subject to market fluctuations, CFE 223 tends to be readily available and competitively priced.
Considerations
- Sensitivity to Temperature: Like some other powders, CFE 223 may show some sensitivity to temperature changes. This means that the point of impact of your shots could change a bit if the temperature changes. It is often less sensitive than some other powders, but it is something to watch out for, especially for long-range shooting.
- Load Density Concerns: Although the powder often delivers good loading density, the case and bullet combination can affect the density, and you should be aware of the impact of this when experimenting.
- Other considerations: Every rifle is a little different, and different results are possible.
Comparisons with Other Choices
To gain a clearer perspective, let’s compare CFE 223 with some similar options.
CFE 223 versus Varget
Varget is a popular choice. Both are known for accuracy. Varget is usually considered a bit less temperature-sensitive than CFE 223, but it may meter a little less easily due to its extruded shape. The best choice will depend on your specific needs and your rifle.
CFE 223 versus H335
H335 is another well-regarded powder, particularly popular in the .223 Remington. H335 and CFE 223 have different burn rates and densities, so it’s important to consult load data. H335 might be slightly more affordable in some markets.
Reloading Safety: Your Top Priority
Reloading is a safe hobby when practiced responsibly. Follow these crucial guidelines:
- Always use personal protective equipment, like safety glasses and gloves.
- Only use loading data from reputable sources like reloading manuals and the manufacturer’s website.
- Start with the minimum recommended powder charge and work up in increments, carefully observing the signs of pressure (such as flattened primers, sticky bolt lift, and so on).
- Double-check your powder charge before seating the bullet.
- Ensure that your cases are properly sized, trimmed, and deburred.
- Store your powder in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.
- Never overload cartridges.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
CFE 223 stands as a strong contender in the world of reloading powders. Its potential for excellent accuracy, combined with potentially less copper fouling, makes it a worthwhile option.
If you are a target shooter looking to maximize accuracy in a .223 Remington, or a varmint hunter searching for high velocities, CFE 223 could be an excellent fit. It is versatile enough to be considered for a variety of other calibers as well.
Ultimately, the best powder for you will depend on your rifle, your shooting style, and your specific goals.
Now, let’s hear from you!
What are your experiences with CFE 223 powder? Share your load recipes, successes, and insights in the comments. Your contributions can help others.
Disclaimer: *Reloading can be dangerous if not performed properly. Always adhere to safe practices and consult reliable sources. I am not responsible for any actions taken by readers based on this information.*
