Hodgdon Universal: The Versatile Powder for Shotgun and Handgun Reloading

If you’re looking for one powder to do it all, Hodgdon Universal is your answer. Designed using Clay’s gunpowder technology, this powder performs reliably across a wide range of cartridges—from .25 ACP to .44 Magnum and from 28-gauge to 12-gauge shotgun shells.

Whether you’re loading light target rounds or heavier field loads, Hodgdon Universal powder gives you consistent ignition, clean burning, and dependable velocities. It’s perfect for shooters who demand both performance and flexibility in one bottle.

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Why Choose Hodgdon Universal Powder?

You don’t need five different powders when one can do the job right. Hodgdon Universal powder is known for handling the broadest range of shotgun and pistol cartridges. It burns cleaner, more consistently, and offers smoother performance than many single-purpose powders.

This powder is especially popular with reloaders who want to simplify their bench setup while maintaining excellent results. Plus, because it’s part of Hodgdon’s Clays series, it shares the same reputation for uniform combustion and reduced residue.

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Product Features of Hodgdon Universal

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Best Uses for Hodgdon Universal Powder

Hodgdon Universal is a reloader’s dream because of how many cartridges it supports. It works well in both light and heavy loads, making it ideal for:

• Target shooters using .38 Special, 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP

• Field shooters using 12-gauge and 20-gauge loads

• Small caliber pistol users like .25 ACP and .32 Auto

• Heavy handgun calibers like .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum

• 28-gauge shotgunners needing smooth and consistent powder ignition

No matter your firearm, Universal powder adapts to your needs.

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Who Should Use Hodgdon Universal?

This powder is perfect for:

• Handloaders who want to reduce the number of powders they use

• Shotgun shooters who also load for handguns

• Pistol competitors looking for clean-burning, repeatable results

• New reloaders who want one powder that does a bit of everything

If you load multiple calibers and gauges, Universal makes your setup simpler and more efficient.

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Where to Buy Hodgdon Universal Powder

You can buy Hodgdon Universal powder at licensed online gunpowder dealers or your local reloading supply store. It’s available in:

• 1 lb. container – Great for testing or occasional reloaders

• 4 lb. container – A good value for frequent reloaders

• 8 lb. container – Best for bulk users and high-volume shooters

🚚 Reminder: Powder ships under hazmat regulations, so make sure to check shipping and availability in your area.

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Hodgdon Universal Load Data

Here’s a sample from official Hodgdon Universal load data to get you started:

.38 Special Target Load Example

• Bullet: 148 gr WC (Wadcutter)

• Powder Charge: 2.7 – 3.2 grains

• Primer: Small Pistol

• OAL: 1.150 inches

• Velocity: ~700 – 750 fps

12-Gauge Load Example

• Shell: 2 ¾”

• Payload: 1 1/8 oz. lead shot

• Powder Charge: 20.5 grains

• Wad: WAA12

• Primer: Winchester 209

• Velocity: ~1145 fps

💡 For more load data, visit the Hodgdon Reloading Data Center.

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Safe Storage and Handling

• Store in a cool, dry location away from open flames or heat.

• Keep powder in the original container to ensure safety and stability.

• Follow all Hodgdon and manual safety instructions when reloading.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is Hodgdon Universal good for both pistol and shotgun?

A: Yes! It’s specifically designed to perform across a wide spectrum of both shotgun gauges and pistol calibers.

Q2: Is Universal part of the Clays powder family?

A: Absolutely. It shares the same clean-burning, reliable traits as other Clays series powders.

Q3: Can beginners use Hodgdon Universal powder?

A: Yes. It’s an excellent choice for beginners because of its broad compatibility and forgiving performance.

Q4: Is Universal powder clean-burning?

A: Very much so. It leaves minimal residue, reducing the time needed to clean your firearms.

Q5: Where can I find complete load data?

A: Visit the official Hodgdon Reloading Data Center for cartridge-specific recipes.

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Recommended Multimedia

Suggested Image Ideas:

• Pistol and shotgun shells with Hodgdon Universal powder container

• Reloading bench setup with powder dispenser and scales

• Close-up of clean-burning shot residue comparison

Suggested YouTube Videos:

• Universal Powder Pistol Load Review

• Shotgun Reloading with Hodgdon Universal Powder

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For verified Hodgdon Universal load data and safe reloading practices, visit this blog for more details.