Blue Dot powder, a popular double-base smokeless propellant, is widely used in various shooting applications, particularly in magnum handgun cartridges and heavy shotgun loads. Manufactured by Alliant Powder, it is well-regarded for its consistent performance, clean burn, and ability to handle heavy loads, making it a favorite among reloaders and shooters alike. However, like many reloading components, Blue Dot powder has experienced fluctuations in availability. This article provides a detailed look at Blue Dot powder, its uses, current market availability, and insights on how to secure it for your reloading needs.
What is Blue Dot Powder?
Blue Dot powder is part of a family of reloading powders designed for magnum loads, both in handguns and shotguns. It has a relatively slow burn rate compared to other powders, making it ideal for high-pressure cartridges where a powerful yet controlled burn is required. Key characteristics of Blue Dot powder include:
Consistent Performance: It offers consistent velocities and pressure levels, which are crucial for precision shooting and hunting.
Versatile Usage: While primarily used in magnum handgun cartridges such as the .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 10mm Auto, Blue Dot powder is also effective for heavy 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotgun loads, making it versatile for both target shooting and hunting.
Clean Burn: Blue Dot’s clean burn properties help reduce fouling, which is a significant advantage for shooters looking for easy maintenance and prolonged firearm life.
Popular Uses of Blue Dot Powder
Magnum Handgun Loads: Due to its slower burn rate and energy output, Blue Dot powder is often used in magnum handgun cartridges. Shooters enjoy its ability to deliver high velocities while maintaining accuracy and manageable recoil. It’s commonly recommended for cartridges like:
.357 Magnum
.41 Magnum
.44 Magnum
10mm Auto
Shotgun Loads: Blue Dot is also frequently employed in heavy 12-gauge and 20-gauge loads, particularly for waterfowl and upland game hunting. Its ability to generate high pressure makes it suitable for producing powerful and consistent patterns in heavy loads, including:
12-gauge magnum loads (e.g., for turkey or goose hunting)
20-gauge heavy loads
Specialty Loads: Some reloaders experiment with Blue Dot powder in specialized loads, such as for rifle cartridges or reduced-recoil applications. However, it’s essential to follow load data from trusted sources, as incorrect usage can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
Availability of Blue Dot Powder
As with many reloading components, Blue Dot powder has seen periods of shortage, especially during times of increased demand for ammunition and reloading supplies. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent surge in firearm purchases led to significant disruptions in the supply chain for powders and primers, causing Blue Dot powder to be out of stock in many stores.
Despite these challenges, reloaders can still find Blue Dot powder in stock by following a few strategies:
Check Major Retailers: Big-name reloading suppliers, such as MidwayUSA, Brownells, and Cabela’s, frequently update their stock of powders, including Blue Dot. Signing up for restock notifications or email alerts is an excellent way to stay ahead of the competition when Blue Dot becomes available.
Visit Local Gun Shops: Smaller, local gun shops may have Blue Dot in stock even when online retailers are sold out. These shops often have a smaller but dedicated customer base, which can make it easier to find products like reloading powder.
Join Online Forums and Communities: Online reloading communities, such as those found on Reddit or The High Road, are excellent resources for real-time information on powder availability. Fellow reloaders often share tips on where they’ve found in-stock powders and can point you toward less-known retailers that may have stock.
Consider Bulk Purchases: When you do find Blue Dot in stock, consider purchasing in bulk. Powders can be stored for extended periods if kept in cool, dry conditions, and buying in bulk may save you money in the long run, particularly if shortages occur again.