Vihtavuori N110 is a single-base, tubular smokeless powder that holds a unique position in the Vihtavuori N100 series. As the fastest-burning rifle powder in their catalog, it acts as a critical bridge between high-performance handgun propellants and small-capacity rifle powders. Formerly known as 4N19 and N3SS, N110 is engineered for cartridges that require a high energy release in a small volume, making it the premier choice for magnum revolvers and specialized small-bore rifles.
Optimal Applications and Calibers
N110 is exceptionally versatile, performing with match-grade consistency in three distinct categories:
- Magnum Handguns: It is a gold-standard propellant for heavy-hitting revolver cartridges like the .357 Magnum, .41 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, and the .500 S&W Magnum. It provides the high pressure and velocity necessary to push heavy bullets to their full terminal potential.
- Small Capacity Rifles: N110 is the traditional favorite for classic small rifle cases. It is the primary recommendation for the .22 Hornet and .30 Carbine, where it provides excellent case filling and consistent ignition.
- Modern Intermediate Rounds: In recent years, N110 has gained a massive following among .300 Blackout shooters. It is highly effective for both supersonic and subsonic loads, providing reliable cycling and clean performance in short-barreled AR-15 platforms.
Physical Properties and Metering
N110 is a “stick” powder with a very small kernel geometry (1.1 mm in length and 0.8 mm in diameter). This small grain size offers several advantages to the reloader:
- Precise Metering: Unlike larger extruded rifle powders, N110 flows smoothly through volumetric powder measures, ensuring charge-to-charge weight consistency that is vital for handgun and small-rifle accuracy.
- Ignition Reliability: The powder is designed to ignite easily and burn completely even at the lower pressures often found in handgun-length barrels. For the most consistent results in magnum cases, the use of a small rifle primer or a magnum pistol primer is often recommended to ensure uniform ignition of the powder column.
Performance and Stability
As a member of the N100 series, N110 is a pure nitrocellulose-based powder. This single-base composition offers inherently stable performance across a wide range of temperatures. Whether you are hunting varmints in the summer or carrying a magnum revolver in the winter, N110 maintains a predictable muzzle velocity and point of impact.
True to the Vihtavuori reputation, N110 is remarkably clean-burning. It leaves minimal carbon residue and unburned flakes in the action, which is particularly beneficial for shooters using semi-automatic platforms like the .300 Blackout or .30 Carbine.
Comparison to Competition
On the relative burn rate scale, N110 is often compared to Hodgdon H110, Winchester 296, and Alliant 2400. While it shares many of the same applications as H110 and W296, N110 is often preferred by precision reloaders because it is generally less sensitive to “downloading” and offers superior temperature stability. For the Canadian reloader looking for a premium, versatile powder that handles both high-power revolvers and small-bore rifles, N110 remains an essential component on the reloading bench.
