How long does powder last?????

[markie]

I'm back to shooting after a 30 year absence. Sorting through the workshop cupboards the other day I found a tin of Shotgun 80, still un-opened. Is it safe to use|??

[dromia]

What does it smell of?

[markie]

I can't detect any smell at all, Also smelt some recently acquired N120 (Vihtavouri), and that doesn't smell either.

[dromia]

Smells like 'tis good to go.

[shotgun sam]

What does it smell of?

Just out of curiosity what does powder that is off smell like?

[dromia]

usually starts sweetish the goes a vinegary, sourness smell.

If it smells at all then I would not use it.

[Dark Skies]

What does it smell of?

Just out of curiosity what does powder that is off smell like?

Bad powder - ranges from a hint of vinegar up to very acidic aroma.
Good powder - ranges from no aroma to a solvent-like smell akin to acetone.

[markie]

Thamks for all the replys, I'll give it a go on some reduced loads for my 45/70 (Pedersoli Sharps). Falling block is amongst the strongest actions so shouldn't be a problem.

It's amazing what you find when clearing out. What was my reloading bench back in the 80s has revealed a second part full tin of shotgun 80, and a nearly full canister of Bullseye (when it was Hercules). None has any trace of smell. Also 3 of the cheap nasty Longstaff 1911 mags, and a stainless Browning 20 rounder, also Longstaff.

I'll update on the shotgun 80.

[bradaz11]

What does it smell of?

Just out of curiosity what does powder that is off smell like?

Bad powder - ranges from a hint of vinegar up to very acidic aroma.
Good powder - ranges from no aroma to a solvent-like smell akin to acetone.

isn't acid a solvent?

[billgatese30]

Just out of curiosity what does powder that is off smell like?

Bad powder - ranges from a hint of vinegar up to very acidic aroma.
Good powder - ranges from no aroma to a solvent-like smell akin to acetone.

isn't acid a solvent?

Technically yes, and so is water by definition (as things will dissolve in them) .