A Comprehensive Guide to Ramshot Powder: Performance, Types, and Applications

 

In the realm of firearms, ammunition, and reloading, Ramshot powder holds a prominent position. Known for its consistency, versatility, and high-quality performance, Ramshot powders have become a favorite among both hobbyist reloaders and competitive shooters alike. This article will take an in-depth look into Ramshot powder, covering its history, various types, performance characteristics, and tips for its safe and effective use.

History and Background of Ramshot Powder

Ramshot powders are manufactured by Western Powders, a company with a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and precise reloading components. Headquartered in Montana, Western Powders started as a distributor in the 1970s, dealing in high-quality reloading supplies. Over time, the company recognized the need for a premium line of propellants and developed the Ramshot brand to meet the demands of modern reloaders.

 

The Ramshot line of powders is double-base in composition, meaning that it contains both nitroglycerin and nitrocellulose as the primary ingredients. This results in enhanced energy output, providing reliable ignition and consistent pressure, which is critical for accuracy in shooting sports. Additionally, the Ramshot powder line is known for its wide range of burn rates, making it a versatile choice for different types of ammunition, from handguns to rifles.

Types of Ramshot Powder

Ramshot offers a wide variety of powders tailored to meet specific shooting needs. Below are the most common types of Ramshot powder and their respective applications:

1. Ramshot TAC

Ramshot TAC is a highly popular rifle powder among those who reload for semi-automatic rifles, such as the AR-15 platform chambered in 5.56 NATO or .223 Remington. It is known for its clean-burning properties and excellent temperature stability, which means it performs consistently across a range of environmental conditions. TAC has a medium burn rate, making it suitable for a variety of calibers beyond the 5.56, including .308 Winchester and 7.62x39mm.

2. Ramshot X-Terminator

This powder is specifically designed for small-caliber, high-velocity rounds, such as the .223 Remington and other small cartridges. Its fast burn rate makes it perfect for lightweight bullets, and its fine granulation helps ensure accurate metering during the reloading process. X-Terminator is favored for varmint hunting and competitive shooting, where precision and velocity are critical.

3. Ramshot Hunter

For reloaders who favor large-caliber rifles, Ramshot Hunter offers an ideal solution. It is designed for use with medium to heavy bullets in calibers like .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and .300 Winchester Magnum. Its slow burn rate provides high velocity with heavy bullets, making it an excellent choice for long-range shooting and big game hunting.

4. Ramshot Magnum

As the name suggests, Ramshot Magnum is geared toward magnum rifle calibers such as .300 Remington Ultra Magnum, .338 Lapua Magnum, and other large-capacity cases. It offers a very slow burn rate, which helps maximize velocity while maintaining manageable pressures. This powder is often favored by reloaders who prioritize power and long-range performance.

5. Ramshot Enforcer

Enforcer is a versatile powder that works well for both large-bore handgun cartridges and magnum revolvers. It has a fast burn rate and is ideal for cartridges like .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, and even the .500 Smith & Wesson. Additionally, Enforcer is known for producing consistent velocities and clean burning, which reduces fouling in the barrel and minimizes the need for frequent cleaning.

6. Ramshot Competition

This powder is a favorite among competitive shotgun shooters. Ramshot Competition has a very fast burn rate and is ideal for 12-gauge loads used in trap, skeet, and sporting clays. It’s also known for producing soft recoil, which helps shooters maintain control and accuracy during rapid shooting sequences.

7. Ramshot True Blue

True Blue is a high-performance spherical powder designed for use in a wide variety of handgun calibers, including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. It is prized for its ability to meter precisely through progressive reloading presses, offering consistent powder charges. True Blue is also known for producing minimal muzzle flash and clean-burning characteristics.

Performance Characteristics of Ramshot Powders

One of the key factors that sets Ramshot powders apart from other reloading powders is their spherical shape. Unlike extruded powders that are stick-like in appearance, Ramshot powders are ball-shaped, which offers several advantages:

1. Improved Metering

Spherical powders like those in the Ramshot line are known for their excellent metering capabilities. This means that they flow smoothly through powder measures, ensuring consistent and accurate charges every time. This is particularly important for high-volume reloaders and those who use progressive presses, where precision is key to maintaining accuracy and safety.

2. Consistent Burn Rates

Ramshot powders are engineered for specific burn rates, ensuring that the powder ignites and burns in a predictable manner. This consistency translates to reliable chamber pressures and uniform bullet velocities, both of which are crucial for accuracy, especially in competitive shooting and long-range applications.

3. Temperature Stability

One of the challenges with many powders is that they can be affected by temperature changes, causing shifts in pressure and velocity. Ramshot powders are designed to maintain their performance even in extreme hot or cold weather conditions. This makes them a great choice for hunters and long-range shooters who may face varying environmental conditions during their activities.

4. Clean Burning

Clean-burning powders reduce fouling inside the barrel and chamber, allowing shooters to go longer between cleanings. This not only improves the overall shooting experience but also extends the life of the firearm by reducing wear and tear caused by powder residue.

Applications of Ramshot Powder

Whether you are a competitive shooter, hunter, or simply enjoy reloading as a hobby, Ramshot powders offer a versatile and reliable option. Below are some of the key applications:

1. Hunting

Ramshot powders are particularly well-suited for hunters who demand both accuracy and stopping power. Powders like Ramshot Hunter and Magnum are designed for big-game calibers, ensuring high velocity and energy transfer. For varmint hunters, powders like TAC and X-Terminator provide the precision and speed needed to hit small, fast-moving targets at long distances.

2. Competitive Shooting

Competitive shooters, especially in disciplines like 3-Gun, USPSA, and long-range precision shooting, often rely on the consistent performance of Ramshot powder. The clean-burning and temperature-stable nature of these powders help shooters maintain tight groups and consistent velocities throughout a competition.

3. Handgun Shooting

Ramshot powders like True Blue and Enforcer are ideal for handgun reloaders. Whether for self-defense, target practice, or competitive shooting, these powders offer the clean-burning and accurate metering characteristics that handgun shooters need. True Blue, in particular, is widely used for common calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP, while Enforcer is more suited for magnum revolvers.

4. Shotgun Reloading

Ramshot Competition is a go-to powder for those involved in clay target sports. The fast burn rate and soft recoil make it ideal for the rapid shooting sequences common in skeet and trap. Additionally, its clean-burning properties mean that shotguns can go longer between cleanings, a major advantage during competition.

Safety Tips for Using Ramshot Powder

As with any reloading process, safety is paramount when working with Ramshot powders. Here are a few essential safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Follow Load Data: Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommended load data when using Ramshot powders. Overcharging a case can result in excessive pressures that could damage your firearm or cause injury.
2. Store Properly: Store your powder in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Proper storage will ensure that the powder remains stable and performs as intended.
3. Avoid Mixing Powders: Never mix different types of powders, as this can lead to unpredictable burn rates and unsafe pressures.
4. Use a Reliable Powder Measure: To ensure consistent charges, use a high-quality powder measure or scale when loading.

Conclusion

Ramshot powders have earned a reputation for their quality, versatility, and reliability. Whether you're hunting big game, competing in shooting sports, or simply reloading for fun, there is likely a Ramshot powder that suits your needs. Their excellent metering, temperature stability, and clean-burning characteristics make them a top choice for reloaders of all experience levels. By selecting the right type of Ramshot powder and following proper safety guidelines, you can achieve consistent and accurate results in your shooting endeavors.