W760 is reported as somewhat better suited to bullets 150gr and up (308). W748 has somewhat similar characteristics, and is reported to be better suited to the lighter weights (110gr and up to 150gr). I am seriously considering getting W760 myself.
"Common Knowledge" suggests using Magnum primers with Winchester Ball Powders like these, and many report that regular primers worked fine. YMMV. Avoid compressed loads, avoid max loads, and avoid hotloading with any powder; it does not pay off in the long run.
Ball Powders are also reported as being temp sensitive; I.e., they can get rowdy when the heat is up there. Having had some experience with this, I believe 'em. I would never use max charges with them, and doubly so on hotter days. They are also reputed to be "dirty", and often required a bit more cleaning.
But they also meter very well (leading to better consistency for longer reloading runs), and can be versatile "fallback" powders when times are tough and components are limited. While many here insist on optimal loads, whatever that means; these can be useful to those who are looking for a simpler common answer to several of the more common questions. Note: optimal loads often vary with the weather.
W760 was the powder Uncle Sugar put into the 30-06 when the Marines took The War in the Pacific to the Japanese in WWII. In those days before the more modern Wonder Powders were available, W748 and W760 were a big segment of the reloading market. Older solutions still work when used in connection with the older caveats. (Avoid max loads, use reasonable caution on hotter days). I'm considering W760 for my 28" .260 and 140gr bullets.
Reloading does not need to be as complex as many make it; but a solid knowledge of handloading wisdom will seldom fail you. Such knowledge leads off in most modern reloading manuals..., READ IT!
Greg
PS: Powders possessing
within 5% equivalent burn rates. Read the included note! Australian Munitions (and I) cannot accept any responsibility for the use of this information in any way.
