Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Alliant Reloder 16 sits in the 4350 burn-speed band — slightly faster than Reloder 17, overlapping IMR 4350 and H4350 territory. Built on TZ (temperature-insensitive) technology, this spherical propellant resists pressure swings across temperature extremes, making it a repeatable choice for hunting cartridges like .30-06 Springfield and .270 Winchester, 6.5mm precision loads, and tactical applications where environmental consistency matters. Reloder 16 meters cleanly through progressive presses and powder measures, and the formulation includes a de-coppering additive that reduces throat fouling over strings of fire.
Load Profile
Reloder 16 occupies the same velocity window as IMR 4350 in most cartridges but holds tighter extreme spreads when ambient temperature shifts. In .30-06 with 165-grain bullets, typical charge weights run 52–56 grains; in .270 Winchester with 130-grain projectiles, 54–58 grains; in 6.5 Creedmoor with 140-grain match bullets, 41–43 grains. Always cross-reference current load data from Alliant’s published manual or reputable third-party sources — maximum charges vary by case, primer, and bullet seating depth. The spherical grain structure meters within ±0.1 grain on calibrated measures, and the nitrocellulose base contains no dinitrotoluene (DNT) or dibutyl phthalate (DBP), simplifying handling and storage compliance.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Shipping Weight | 1.155 Pounds – 8.790 Pounds |
| DOT-Regulated | Yes |
| HazMat Product | Yes |
Reloder 16 ships as a DOT Class 1.3C explosive — HazMat fees apply, and carriers restrict quantity per shipment. Lot-to-lot consistency runs within published tolerances; re-verify charge weights when switching between lots. For additional gun powder options across burn rates, browse our reloading section.
Who It’s For
Reloder 16 serves handloaders chasing single-digit extreme spreads in cartridges that traditionally used IMR 4350 or H4350 — particularly hunters working .30-06 or .270 across elevation changes, precision rifle competitors shooting 6.5 Creedmoor in variable weather, and long-range shooters building tactical loads for .260 Remington or 6.5×55 Swedish. If you load for magnums (.300 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag), step up to Reloder 23 or Reloder 26 for better case fill and velocity. If you shoot AR-15 platforms in .223 or 5.56, AR-Comp remains the better pick for semi-auto gas systems.
Storage & Handling
Store Reloder 16 in original containers, away from heat sources, open flame, and direct sunlight. Keep powder in a climate-controlled environment — avoid garages or sheds subject to temperature cycling. Use dedicated powder measures; never return spilled powder to the original container. Clean measure hoppers between powder types to prevent cross-contamination. Dispose of aged or contaminated powder per local hazardous-waste protocols; do not burn in open piles or attempt to flush through municipal systems.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Smokeless powder is a Class 1.3C explosive. Federal law permits interstate shipment via ground carrier with HazMat endorsement; some states and municipalities impose additional storage or quantity restrictions. Verify current regulations in your jurisdiction before ordering. Always cross-reference published load data — do not extrapolate between cartridges or exceed maximum listed charges. Overpressure events can cause catastrophic firearm failure, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Wear safety glasses when measuring and pouring powder; avoid inhaling dust during transfer.
- Never mix powders or use substitutes not listed in current load manuals — burn rates vary by formulation.
- Store powder in quantities compliant with local fire codes; consult your jurisdiction’s explosives ordinance for residential limits.
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