Top 5 Mistakes Reloaders Make with Gun Powder and How to Avoid Them

Reloading is a rewarding and cost-effective hobby but it demands precision, especially when it comes to your gun powder. At Reloaders House we see many reloaders making the same errors that lead to poor performance and even safety risks. Below are the top mistakes and how you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Choosing the wrong burn rate or gun powder type

Using a powder meant for a rifle in a pistol case (or vice versa) can result in inconsistent velocities or dangerous pressure spikes. As noted, matching burn rate to cartridge/bullet is critical.
Fix: Use only powders listed for your cartridge in a trusted reloading manual. Don’t substitute based solely on “looks alike”.

Mistake #2: Improper gun powder measurement

Even a small variation in powder charge can alter pressure and velocity significantly. The guide from one manufacturer emphasises weighing each charge.
Fix: Invest in a quality scale. Weigh each charge, use a trickler when needed, and maintain a consistent workflow.

Mistake #3: Poor storage or contamination

Powder is more stable than many realise — but exposure to humidity, heat or mixing powders can degrade performance.
Fix: Store in original sealed container, in a cool dry place. Do not mix powders or spill one into another container. Label all clearly.

Mistake #4: Skipping load-development and testing

It’s tempting to load many rounds once you believe you have the “right” combo, but you must test for consistent velocity and signs of pressure.
Fix: Develop loads gradually, record data (velocity, grouping, case condition). Never assume until you’ve confirmed performance.

Mistake #5: Ignoring environmental/condition effects

Temperature, case condition, bullet seating depth, etc., can all influence pressure and velocity.
Fix: When you change ambient conditions (cold range, hot day) retest. Be cautious with loads developed under only one set of conditions.

Internal links to help you

• “Reloading Gun Powders: The Complete Beginner’s Guide” →

• “Case Preparation and Loading Workflow for Accuracy” →

• Visit our Reloading Supplies category to browse powders, scales and accessories → 

External resource

For more on smokeless powder behaviour and safe practices: see “Everything Handloaders Need to Know About Smokeless Powder”. An NRA Shooting Sports Journal