CFE 223 has rapidly gained popularity among handloaders, earning a reputation as a versatile and accurate powder for the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges. But what makes it so special? This in-depth review explores CFE 223's performance characteristics, suitability for various applications, and overall value, helping you determine if it's the right powder for your reloading needs.
CFE 223: Key Features and Performance
CFE 223, manufactured by Hodgdon Powder Company, is an extruded powder known for its exceptional metering characteristics. This is a crucial advantage for high-volume reloading, ensuring consistent powder charges and minimizing the risk of inconsistent loads. Its relatively low sensitivity to temperature variations also contributes to reliable performance across a broader range of conditions.
Advantages of CFE 223:
- Excellent Metering: The extruded nature of CFE 223 leads to superior metering compared to many spherical powders, crucial for consistent and safe reloading. This is especially beneficial for progressive presses.
- Reduced Pressure Spikes: Many users report smoother pressure curves with CFE 223, leading to less wear on firearms and a potentially improved accuracy.
- Versatile Performance: CFE 223 performs well across a range of bullet weights and velocities, making it suitable for various applications, from target shooting to hunting.
- Clean Burning: Generally regarded as a clean-burning powder, resulting in less fouling in your firearm. This translates to less cleaning and maintenance.
- Good Accuracy: Many reloaders report excellent accuracy with CFE 223, contributing to its popularity amongst precision shooters.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Sensitivity to Case Capacity Variations: Like all powders, slight variations in case capacity can affect pressure. Careful attention to case preparation and consistent sizing are crucial.
- Availability: Due to its popularity, CFE 223 can sometimes be difficult to find, especially during periods of high demand. Checking multiple suppliers might be necessary.
CFE 223 Applications and Load Data
CFE 223 is well-suited for a broad spectrum of .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO applications:
- Target Shooting: Its accuracy and consistent metering make it ideal for precise target shooting at various ranges.
- Hunting: While suitable for hunting, it's crucial to select appropriate bullet weights and velocities for your specific game and ethical hunting practices.
- Self-Defense: Its reliability and performance make it a suitable choice for self-defense ammunition, provided the loads are carefully developed and tested to meet your specific firearm and needs.
Crucial Note: Always consult the latest reloading manuals from reputable sources (like Hodgdon's website) for accurate load data specific to your firearm, bullets, and primers. Never exceed maximum recommended loads. Improper reloading practices can lead to serious injury or damage to your firearm.
CFE 223 vs. Other Powders
CFE 223 often gets compared to other popular .223 powders like Varget and TAC. While each powder has its strengths, CFE 223 often stands out due to its excellent metering properties. This makes it a more forgiving powder for beginners and high-volume reloaders. Varget, for example, is known for its accuracy but can be more challenging to meter consistently. Direct comparisons are highly dependent on individual firearm characteristics and chosen components.
Conclusion: Is CFE 223 Right for You?
CFE 223 is a strong contender in the .223/.556 reloading world. Its superior metering, versatility, and generally good accuracy make it a popular choice for many reloaders. However, its availability and sensitivity to case capacity variations should be considered. If consistent metering, clean burning, and good accuracy are priorities, CFE 223 is certainly worth exploring. Remember always to prioritize safety and consult reliable load data before beginning any reloading project. Happy and safe reloading!
