I've burned one 8 pound container so far, it has been generally satisfactory.
Stuff is currently available, although the price has increased near 30% since introduction just last year.
My one ounce load in assorted AA and Remington cases with CB-1100 wants at least 16 grains to burn clean and sound right, especially in cool weather. The powder IS charge efficient which is nice.
My #19 MEC bushing throws 16 grains in a Grabber. Powder meters well. Few complaints except it's a tad dirty and the following safety note:
I have no idea what this stuff was originally intended for. Hodgdon of course claims it was 'designed' as a 12 gauge powder. This seems unlikely due to the density of the product.
Why would you do that to yourself intentionally? I have no particular wad/shot stack problems but the density is concerning and introduces a definite hazard to the users.
We are used to using in MEC equipment bushing numbers 28-32 (or so) for 12 gauge target loads. In the past, small changes in volume were all that was required. Now, introduce this exceptionally dense, high energy, fast powder.
The scenario I cringe at is a fellow loading Titewad accidentally grabbing Perfect Pattern, or neglecting to change bushings when changing to Perfect Pattern, or just misreading #29 for #19 when changing bushings/loads.
The recommendations of having only ONE powder on the bench, verifying the CORRECT powder, and weighing charges frequently especially when making changes apply in spades when this 'new' dense powder is introduced to your loading room. What would have been a small error in the past can now get you blown up.
I certainly hope my old standard flake powders become available once again.
