Vihtavuori N165 Smokeless Gun Powder

Clear Product Overview

Vihtavuori N165 Smokeless Gun Powder is a high-performance, ultra-slow burning single-base rifle propellant. Manufacturer Vihtavuori engineered it specifically to deliver smooth combustion, low bore erosion, and maximum accuracy in large-capacity bottleneck rifle cartridges.

First, as a flagship member of Vihtavuori’s N100 single-base series, it offers outstanding temperature stability and shot-to-shot consistency. Consequently, it maintains predictable pressures and tight velocity spreads even during extreme seasonal temperature shifts. In addition, its slow burn rate makes it a top choice for long-range precision marksmen and big-game hunters reloading 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Lapua Magnum, .270 Winchester, and 6.5×55 Swedish with heavy projectiles. Furthermore, its smooth tubular grains meter consistently through volumetric powder measures. Therefore, it provides match-grade precision, minimal fouling, and extended barrel life across high-intensity shooting disciplines.

Relevant Specifications

• Brand: Vihtavuori

• Product Line: N100 Single-Base Series

• Powder Name: N165

• Powder Type: Single-Base Porous Tubular Grain

• Burn Rate: Slow Rifle (Similar class to Hodgdon H4831SC, Alliant Reloder 22, and IMR 4831)

• Primary Applications: Large-Capacity & Magnum Rifle Cartridges (7mm Rem Mag, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Mag, .270 Win, 6.5x55mm Swedish, 7mm-08 Rem)

• Available Sizes: 1 lb Canister & 4 lb Container

• Country of Origin: Finland

Real-World Use Information

Precision shooters and big-game hunters choose Vihtavuori N165 because it provides smooth, progressive pressure expansion without harsh peak pressure spikes. Consequently, handloaders can safely extract flat trajectories and high energy numbers when firing heavy-for-caliber match or big-game projectiles.

Additionally, its single-base chemical formulation burns clean and cool compared to double-base powders. Therefore, it protects barrel throats from premature erosion and keeps carbon buildup to a minimum during long target sessions. Furthermore, its symmetrical stick grain dimensions allow uniform drop consistency across automated and rotary powder drops.

Compatibility & Requirements

• Application Use: Performs best in medium-to-large capacity bottleneck rifle cases firing heavy-for-caliber bullets.

• Load Data: Always consult official Vihtavuori reloading manuals before charging brass cases.

• Storage: Keep this powder in its original sealed container in a cool, dry area away from direct heat sources.

Pros & Limitations

Pros:

• Superior Barrel Life: Single-base formulation burns cooler, significantly reducing throat erosion in magnum barrels.

• Temperature Stable: Delivers consistent velocities across wide thermal shifts from summer matches to freezing hunts.

• Ultra-Clean Combustion: Leaves minimal fouling, making barrel cleaning fast and straightforward.

• Magnum Class Precision: Proven track record of match-winning accuracy in .300 Win Mag and .338 Lapua.

Limitations:

• Not For Short/Medium Cases: Burn rate is far too slow for standard short-action cartridges like .223 Rem or .308 Win.

• Premium Price Point: Exceptional Finnish manufacturing standards carry a higher cost per pound than standard domestic options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does Vihtavuori N165 compare to N160 and N170?

A: N165 sits right between N160 and N170 in burn rate. It is slower than N160, making it better suited for heavier bullets in magnum cases, but faster than N170.

Q: Is Vihtavuori N165 good for .300 Winchester Magnum?

A: Yes! Vihtavuori N165 is an outstanding powder choice for .300 Win Mag, especially when loading heavy match or hunting bullets weighing 180 grains to 210 grains.

Q: Is Vihtavuori N165 single-base or double-base?

A: It is a single-base porous tubular powder, which provides cooler burning temperatures, less barrel erosion, and outstanding temperature stability.

Shipping & Delivery Information

• HazMat Fee: Requires a Federal HazMat shipping fee per order.

• Shipping Method: Ground shipping only across the USA.

• Restrictions: No air shipping, P.O. Boxes, or overseas orders.

• Return Policy: All powder sales are final due to safety rules.