Hodgdon CFE BLK Smokeless Gun Powder
Clear Product Overview
Hodgdon CFE BLK Smokeless Gun Powder is a specialized double-base spherical rifle propellant featuring Hodgdon’s proprietary Copper Fouling Eraser (CFE) technology. Formulated specifically for small-capacity, high-density bottleneck rifle cartridges and modern sporting rifle (MSR) platforms, CFE BLK was engineered to provide outstanding cycling efficiency, high velocities, and active copper-erasing combustion.
First, CFE BLK features a fine, double-base spherical grain geometry that meters with liquid-smooth volumetric consistency through automated progressive press powder measure drops and single-stage dispensers. Consequently, high-volume handloaders achieve virtually zero charge weight variance and tight velocity standard deviations. In addition, its specialized burn rate was formulated specifically to maximize gas pressure and volume in small-volume cases, enabling complete cycling in semi-automatic gas systems—even with heavy subsonic loads in .300 Blackout. As a result, it is the premier choice for shooters loading .300 AAC Blackout (both subsonic and supersonic), 7.62x39mm, .17 Hornet, .221 Fireball, and .218 Bee. Furthermore, its CFE chemical formulation actively deters and dissolves copper residue in gas ports and rifle bores. Therefore, it maintains peak mechanical accuracy and drastically reduces barrel cleaning time.
Relevant Specifications
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Brand: Hodgdon Powder Company
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Product Line: CFE (Copper Fouling Eraser) Spherical Series
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Powder Name: CFE BLK
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Powder Type: Double-Base Spherical / Ball Grain
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Burn Rate: Fast Rifle / Slow Magnum Handgun (Similar class to Accurate 1680, Alliant Reloder 7, IMR 4227, and Vihtavuori N120)
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Primary Applications: Small-Capacity Rifle & Intermediate Cartridges (.300 AAC Blackout subsonic & supersonic, 7.62x39mm, .17 Hornet, .221 Fireball, .218 Bee, .25-20 Winchester)
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Available Sizes: 1 lb Canister & 8 lb Container
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Country of Origin: USA
Real-World Use Information
Handloaders select Hodgdon CFE BLK because it solves one of the most common issues in .300 AAC Blackout rifles: achieving reliable bolt cycling with subsonic heavy-bullet loadings. Consequently, marksmen shooting suppressed AR-15s gain full semi-automatic reliability and lock-back without sacrificing quiet, subsonic velocity thresholds.
Additionally, its fine ball-grain structure drops with sub-grain precision on progressive presses, eliminating kernel bridging or cutting. Therefore, high-volume target marksmen spend less time measuring individual charges and more time producing range-ready ammunition. Furthermore, its copper-erasing chemistry prevents copper buildup in gas ports, suppressors, and match-grade barrels.
Compatibility & Requirements
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Application Use: Tailored specifically for .300 Blackout, intermediate rifle cartridges, and small-capacity bottleneck cases; ideal for carbines and suppressed MSR setups.
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Load Data: Always consult current official Hodgdon reloading data tables prior to charging cases.
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Storage: Store powder in its original sealed container in a cool, dry area away from direct heat sources and open flames.
Pros & Limitations
Pros:
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Optimized for .300 Blackout: Outstanding gas production ensures full cycling in subsonic heavy-bullet and supersonic loads.
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Copper Fouling Eraser Technology: Actively deters and removes copper deposits inside gas ports and rifle bores.
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Flawless Volumetric Flow: Spherical grain structure flows smoothly with high consistency through progressive measures.
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Versatile Small Rifle Application: Delivers excellent velocities in 7.62x39mm, .17 Hornet, and .221 Fireball.
Limitations:
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Fast Burn Profile: Engineered specifically for small cases; burn rate is far too fast for standard rifle cases like .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor.
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Double-Base Composition: Generates slightly higher barrel heat during prolonged rapid-fire strings compared to single-base powders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What cartridges work best with Hodgdon CFE BLK?
A: Hodgdon CFE BLK excels in .300 AAC Blackout (both subsonic and supersonic), 7.62x39mm, .17 Hornet, .221 Fireball, and .218 Bee.
Q: Is Hodgdon CFE BLK good for subsonic .300 Blackout loads?
A: Yes! CFE BLK is widely regarded as one of the best propellants available for subsonic .300 Blackout because it generates sufficient gas volume to cycle AR-15 actions reliably while keeping bullet speeds under the speed of sound.
Q: Is Hodgdon CFE BLK a ball powder or a stick powder?
A: Hodgdon CFE BLK is a double-base spherical (ball) powder engineered for exceptionally smooth volumetric metering.
Shipping & Delivery Information
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HazMat Fee: Requires a Federal HazMat shipping fee per order.
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Shipping Method: Ground shipping only across the USA.
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Restrictions: No air shipping, P.O. Boxes, or international orders.
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Return Policy: All powder sales are final due to safety guidelines.




Doug From Oceanside, CA. –
This powder has very fine grain size. Measures very accurately. Used it to reload 300 AAC Blackout.