CFE 223 powder has rapidly gained popularity among reloaders for its versatility and performance in .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges. This in-depth review will explore its characteristics, benefits, potential drawbacks, and provide insights to help you determine if it's the right powder for your reloading needs. We'll cover everything from its burn rate and accuracy to load data and potential compatibility issues.
Understanding CFE 223 Powder's Properties
CFE 223 is an extruded powder, meaning it's manufactured through a process that creates a consistent and uniform shape. This contributes to its excellent metering characteristics, a crucial factor for precision reloading. Its relatively slow burn rate makes it suitable for a wide range of bullet weights and velocities, offering flexibility for various applications, from target shooting to self-defense.
Burn Rate and Velocity
The relatively slow burn rate of CFE 223 contributes to lower pressures, resulting in gentler recoil and reduced wear on your firearm. This characteristic makes it a good choice for both new and experienced reloaders. Its versatility allows for a broad range of velocities, making it suitable for everything from subsonic loads to higher-velocity rounds. Precise velocity data will, of course, depend on your specific rifle and components.
Metering Consistency
One of CFE 223's key advantages is its excellent metering consistency. The extruded nature of the powder ensures uniform powder charges, contributing to greater accuracy and reducing the risk of pressure variations between rounds. This is particularly important for those who use a powder measure for dispensing powder. Poor metering can lead to inconsistent loads and potential safety issues.
Accuracy and Performance
Numerous anecdotal reports and online forums suggest CFE 223 delivers excellent accuracy in a variety of firearms. Many reloaders have reported impressive group sizes with this powder. However, accuracy is always influenced by many factors, including bullet choice, primer type, case preparation, and rifle characteristics. It's crucial to conduct your own testing to determine its accuracy in your specific firearm.
CFE 223 Powder: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent metering characteristics | Can be slightly more expensive than some others |
| Versatile for various bullet weights | May require more precise case preparation |
| Relatively clean burning | Availability can fluctuate |
| Lower pressure, gentler on firearms | Sensitive to temperature variations (like most powders) |
| Good accuracy reported by many users |
Load Data and Considerations
Always consult a reliable reloading manual for load data specific to your chosen bullet, primer, and firearm. Never exceed the maximum listed charge weight. Using outdated or incorrect load data can lead to dangerous over-pressurization.
Here's a general guideline, but remember this is NOT a substitute for verified load data from a reputable source:
- Bullet Weights: CFE 223 works well with bullet weights ranging from 55 grains to 77 grains.
- Primer Type: Small rifle primers are generally recommended.
- Case Preparation: Consistent case preparation is crucial for optimal results. Ensure cases are properly sized, trimmed, and cleaned.
Case Studies and User Experiences
Online forums and reloading communities are filled with discussions about CFE 223. Many users praise its accuracy and ease of use, particularly for new reloaders. However, some users report sensitivity to temperature fluctuations, which can impact accuracy and consistency. It's always advisable to check several sources and gather as much information as possible before committing to a particular powder.
Conclusion: Is CFE 223 Right for You?
CFE 223 is a popular choice for .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO reloading due to its excellent metering, versatility, and reported accuracy. Its lower-pressure characteristics make it a relatively safe and forgiving powder, especially for beginners. However, its availability and price can fluctuate, and it’s sensitive to temperature, just like many other powders. Before purchasing, always conduct thorough research, consult reputable reloading manuals for load data, and carefully consider your specific needs and preferences. Remember safe reloading practices are paramount.