Understanding Leverevolution Powder
Key Characteristics
At its core, Leverevolution powder is a ball powder designed specifically for reloading cartridges used in lever-action rifles, as well as some other rifle calibers. It’s a spherical propellant, meaning the grains are round, which contributes to its consistent metering and efficient burning characteristics. The innovative formulation of Leverevolution powder allows for higher velocities in many cartridges compared to traditional propellants. The chemical composition of Leverevolution powder is engineered to provide efficient energy transfer to the bullet, leading to increased muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories. This can translate into greater effective range and improved accuracy, particularly at longer distances.
Key characteristics of Leverevolution powder are critical for reloaders to understand. The burn rate is generally considered to be medium-fast, allowing it to work well with a wide range of bullet weights in specific cartridge types. This burn rate means that the powder burns quickly, creating a significant pressure spike within the cartridge case, which propels the bullet out of the barrel at high speeds. Leverevolution’s density and the spherical shape of the powder granules contribute to easy metering through a powder measure, resulting in consistent powder charges. This consistency is essential for achieving uniform bullet velocities and maintaining good accuracy.
Leverevolution powder offers several distinct advantages. The potential for achieving higher velocities with the same bullet weight and cartridge is a significant benefit. The flatter trajectories resulting from these higher velocities allow for greater effective range with less holdover compensation required. Reduced barrel friction is another benefit due to the controlled burning of the powder. Many reloaders also report good accuracy when using Leverevolution powder, making it a desirable option for hunting and target shooting.
However, like any propellant, Leverevolution also has limitations. It tends to be most effective in cartridges with a specific case capacity and bullet weight range. While it can be used in various cartridges, its performance will be maximized in those that are best suited for its characteristics. Also, reloading enthusiasts should consult published data.
Safety Precautions for Reloading
Reloading ammunition can be a rewarding hobby, but it is fundamentally important to always prioritize safety. Reloading can involve significant pressures and potential for harm if procedures are not followed correctly. Following published load data precisely is the first and most critical step for safe reloading. Always consult reputable reloading manuals or the manufacturer’s website and adhere strictly to the prescribed powder charges, bullet types, primers, and cartridge overall lengths (COL).
Proper tools and meticulous measurements are essential. Use accurate scales for weighing powder charges, and ensure that all your reloading equipment is in good working order and calibrated properly. Never substitute components unless you have verified their compatibility with established load data.
Selecting the correct primers, cases, and bullets is also of the utmost importance. Use the primer type specified in the load data. Mixing primer types can alter pressures significantly. Inspect cases meticulously before reloading. Check for cracks, dents, or any other signs of damage. Ensure cases are of the correct length, trimmed as necessary, and properly sized.
Handling powder, primers, and ammunition requires caution. Store propellants and primers in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and potential sources of ignition. Handle primers with care, and always wear safety glasses and gloves when reloading. Never leave powder or primers unattended, especially around children.
Reloading should always be conducted in a well-ventilated workspace. A clean and organized environment minimizes the chance of contamination and ensures that everything runs smoothly. Always protect your eyes and ears when reloading. Safety glasses are non-negotiable, and ear protection (earplugs or earmuffs) should be worn throughout the reloading process.
Finding Leverevolution Load Data
Reliable and accurate load data is the cornerstone of safe and effective reloading. There are several trustworthy sources of information. The Hodgdon website is often considered the primary source for load data specifically for Leverevolution powder. Hodgdon manufactures Leverevolution, and they provide extensive data for a wide range of cartridges and bullet weights.
Reloading manuals, such as those published by Hornady, Speer, and Sierra, are another invaluable resource. These manuals contain detailed load data for various powders, including Leverevolution. These manuals offer a broad selection of bullet types, powder charge ranges, and other relevant information.
Online forums and communities can be helpful for sharing reloading experiences, but always exercise caution and verify any load data found online. Never rely solely on information from internet forums without cross-referencing it with a reliable source, such as a reloading manual or the manufacturer’s data. Remember, reloaders may have different setups and variables.
Understanding the information presented in load data charts is essential. These charts typically include information like the cartridge name, the bullet weight and type, the specific powder used (e.g., Leverevolution), the primer type, case type (e.g., standard, magnum), and the cartridge overall length (COL). Load data charts provide a powder charge weight range, typically with a minimum and maximum charge. Do not exceed the maximum charge. The chart will also indicate the muzzle velocity, which is the speed at which the bullet exits the barrel. Pressure readings (measured in PSI or CUP) are also typically included. It is very important not to exceed the maximum pressure for a given cartridge to avoid dangerous overpressure.
Always start with the minimum recommended powder charge and carefully work up to the desired performance level while monitoring for signs of excessive pressure.
Popular Cartridges for Leverevolution Powder
Leverevolution powder has proven to be an excellent choice for various cartridges, but it truly shines in certain applications. Several cartridges are particularly well-suited to its characteristics:
The .30-30 Winchester, a classic lever-action cartridge, is a prime example. Leverevolution powder allows for a noticeable increase in muzzle velocity compared to traditional powders, resulting in a flatter trajectory and improved downrange performance. Reloading data for .30-30 with Leverevolution typically involves bullet weights ranging from 150 to 170 grains. This combination can achieve impressive performance at extended ranges.
The .308 Winchester also benefits from Leverevolution powder. It is possible to use a variety of bullet weights and types. This propellant is a great choice when seeking to maximize velocity and accuracy in this versatile caliber.
The .35 Remington, another popular lever-action cartridge, gains significant advantages with Leverevolution. The potential for increased velocity with heavier bullets results in better hunting performance at extended distances. Leverevolution powder offers a good balance of velocity, accuracy, and reduced recoil in this caliber.
Even the larger .45-70 Government can benefit from Leverevolution powder. By choosing the right bullet weights and being mindful of the action type of the rifle being used, reloaders can improve the velocity, and flat trajectory, making the .45-70 a more effective option. Always be cautious with pressure and the type of rifle in use.
[Other cartridges may also be listed with their load data. Always consult a trusted source such as the manufacturer’s website.]
Reloading Process with Leverevolution Powder
The reloading process with Leverevolution powder follows the same general steps as with any other propellant. The process requires care and precision.
Begin with case preparation. This involves cleaning the brass to remove any debris. The cases need to be sized and then trimmed to the correct length using a case trimmer. Finally, the cases should be primed, either with a hand priming tool or a reloading press.
Next, the powder is dispensed into the case. Use a high-quality powder measure to weigh out the specific charge of Leverevolution powder. Weigh each powder charge with an accurate digital scale.
After charging the case, the bullet needs to be seated to the correct depth. This process involves seating the bullet into the case using a bullet seating die. Precise seating depth will affect the cartridge overall length (COL), which is very important for accuracy.
Crimping (if required) is the next step. Many cartridges benefit from a crimp to ensure the bullet stays in place during recoil. If your chosen bullet needs to be crimped, do so according to the loading manual’s instructions.
The final step is inspection. Thoroughly inspect each loaded round to ensure that the bullet is seated properly, that the powder charge is consistent, and that there are no other abnormalities.
To achieve accurate loading, focus on consistency. Ensure that the powder measure is dispensing consistent powder charges. Maintain a consistent cartridge overall length for each round. Consider working up the load. Start with the minimum recommended powder charge, and carefully increase the charge in small increments.
Troubleshooting and Fine-Tuning
Even with careful reloading, issues can arise. The ability to troubleshoot issues and fine-tune loads is an important skill.
Signs of overpressure are serious and should be addressed immediately. Look for indicators like flattened primers, hard bolt extraction, and/or bulging case heads. Any of these signs indicate that the pressure within the cartridge is too high, and the load should be reduced immediately.
Velocity and accuracy issues can also be encountered. If the desired velocity is not achieved, consider using a different bullet weight or type, or adjusting the powder charge, as long as it is within the recommended range. Experiment with slight adjustments to the cartridge overall length (COL), but always maintain a safe COL. Changes to the primer can sometimes influence the performance. Barrel conditions can play a role, too.
Storage and Handling of Leverevolution Powder and Loaded Ammunition
Proper storage and handling are important for safety and maintaining the quality of Leverevolution powder and loaded ammunition.
Store Leverevolution powder and all reloading components in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and potential sources of ignition. Avoid storing powder near solvents or other volatile chemicals. Ensure that all reloading supplies are stored in a secure location, and away from children.
Smokeless powder typically has a long shelf life when stored properly, often many years. However, always inspect the powder for any signs of deterioration, such as clumping, discoloration, or an acrid odor. If in doubt, it is best to dispose of the powder safely.
When transporting loaded ammunition, follow all local and federal regulations. Ensure that ammunition is stored securely and is not accessible to unauthorized individuals.
In conclusion, Leverevolution powder is a powerful propellant. It is designed to significantly improve the performance of many popular cartridges. This allows reloaders to take their performance to the next level. However, safety should be the primary concern. Use the correct data and always follow the proper reloading procedures. By adhering to these guidelines and focusing on the process, reloaders can enjoy the rewards of using Leverevolution powder in their firearms. Always prioritize safe and responsible reloading practices.
