Smokeless Powder Evolution The process of creating a reliable smokeless powder has been as much of an evolution as—and has gone hand-in-hand with—the improvements in bullet technology. Modern powder has been an important ingredient in the successes of our long-range cartridges, because they will produce the consistent pressures and velocities that are so important to accuracy.

A barrel will whip around when you shoot a round. So you might want the barrel to whip the least possible. You do this by adjusting the speed of the bullet as it goes through the barrel by adding or reducing gun powder during your reloading process.

Many competitive pistol shooters reload their own ammunition for cost-saving and accuracy reasons. Learn about checking and cleaning cases, choosing powders and primers, researching appropriate loads, and reloading with traditional O-frame and progressive presses.

Powder Storage in Reloader Hoppers

Powder left in the reloaders powder measure hoppers for extended periods, overnight or several days, should be avoided. Powder needs to be stored in original containers ONLY, when not in use. Numerous modern smokeless powders are double base in construction, containing both Nitrocellulose and Nitroglycerine.

NRA Competitive Shooting Division offers a wide range of activities in all types of shooting, for everyone from the novice to the world-class competitor. The NRA sanctions over 11,000 shooting tournaments and sponsors over 50 national championships each year. Explore the options below to find rules, results, and information on upcoming matches and tournaments.