07-29-2023, 10:21 PM
Old Bob Wrote:Zen ... XBR 8208 is made in Australia. IIRC, the factory where it's made had some problems. I think forum member Klem might be able to say what those problems are. It might be a long time before we see anymore 8208 ...
Guys,
My info source is from Australian Defence Industries website (now called 'Australian Munitions'), and from what I hear from talking to fellow shooters and dealers. I don't have any contacts at the Mulwala plant. Mulwala on the NSW/Victoria border is Australia's only defence industry propellant plant. Apparently they are working overtime producing powder and explosives for various projects. One project is making 155mm shells for Ukraine. This in cooperation with France - they supply the cases and Australia the propellant and filler. Lockheed M have also recently set up shop in Mulwala for a joint guided weapons project with Thales (France), who owns Australian Munitions. Recent shocks to the nation has boosted the urgency for sovereign capability. I say this because you can imagine how distracted the plant is at the moment relative to the production of something basic and low demand as 8208. From their website, about powders including 8208 in less demand;
[INDENT]Production of these propellants is less frequent when compared with the core range (AR2206(H), AR2208, AR2209, AR2213SC and AR2217) but we still endeavour to make them in line with market demand.[/INDENT]
The Hodgdon equivalent of those 'higher demand' powders.
2206H - H4895
2208 - Varget
2209 - H4350
2213 - H4831
2217 - H1000
They were also saying that during COVID propellant demand skyrocketed.
Unfortunately it seems 8208 is not a 'high demand' powder. It is being made but just not constantly. The website also reports powders are made in batches and take 6 months from start to distribution. I just checked on a local dealers website and it is available here, but in the past couple of years has been sketchy. One rifle powder that ADI ceased production of is Trail Boss - they are saying it's due to 'active research and development project associated with its manufacturing optimisation'. Please don't ask me to translate.
There is an ongoing issue with ADI's handgun series of powders. They are no longer being made and who knows when they will. I don't think ADI ever exported its handgun powders so it won't affect you guys.