I'm getting back into reloading my shotgun shells and I have about half a pound of Hercules red dot powder left. It's about 12 years old. Is still good or should I buy new?

I recently shot about 120 shells that I reloaded from the same time and they all worked great.

Thanks

 

The age of the powder in question doesn't matter that much. If the powder was stored in its original container in a dry place it's probably fine. If when you open the canister you don't encounter a strong odd oder, a red cast to the powder resembling rust, or clumping, it's probably just fine. I recently contacted Phil at Hodgdon's about some powder much older than you describe and after describing my storage habits and the present condition of the powder in question was assured that the stuff was probably fine. Whether or not you choose to use what you have is still 100% your choice though. There are too many variables for anyone but you to assume the responsibility. I tend to advise any loader to always err on the side of safety. If you're not completely sure, don't use it.

 

I hope so I still have Most of a 10# keg of Green Dot that is about 5yrs. old, I sure would hate to throw it away.