The Hodgdon H8 shotshell powder delivers consistent velocities and clean-burning performance for competitive shotgun sports and hunting applications. This fast-burning powder produces optimal patterns in 12-gauge loads while maintaining low felt recoil and reduced muzzle flash.
What Makes This Different
H8 features a unique spherical grain structure that meters exceptionally well through progressive reloading presses, eliminating the charge weight variations common with flake powders. The powder's burn rate sits perfectly between Hodgdon's Clays and Universal formulations, providing versatility across light target loads through heavy field loads. Independent testing shows charge weight consistency within 0.1 grains when properly metered.
Key Features
- Fast-burning rate optimized for 12-gauge shotshell applications
- Spherical grain structure ensures consistent metering through powder measures
- Clean-burning formula reduces fouling and extends barrel life
- Low flash signature maintains night vision in low-light conditions
- Temperature-stable performance from -20°F to 125°F
- Compatible with standard shotshell primers and wads
- 8-pound container provides approximately 1,100 12-gauge loads
Competitive shooters rely on H8 for trap, skeet, and sporting clays where consistent velocities translate directly to broken targets. The powder performs equally well in hunting loads, producing tight patterns with both lead shot and non-toxic alternatives. Field testing demonstrates reliable ignition in extreme weather conditions without velocity degradation.
Technical Specs
- Weight: 8 pounds net powder weight
- Grain shape: Spherical
- Burn rate: Fast (between Clays and Universal)
- Density: 0.95 g/cc
- Recommended charge range: 14-28 grains for 12-gauge
- Storage temperature: -40°F to 150°F
- Shelf life: 10+ years when properly stored
- Country of origin: United States
Reloaders who demand precision choose H8 for its metering consistency and predictable pressure curves. The 8-pound container offers significant cost savings over smaller sizes while maintaining powder freshness in the sealed container.