The IMR 7828 SSC (Super Short Cut) represents a high-performance evolution of one of the most respected magnum-class propellants in the reloading industry. Originally derived from the classic IMR 7828, the IMR 7828 SSC was engineered specifically to solve the metering issues inherent to long-grained extruded powders while maximizing case capacity in over-bored rifle cartridges. As a slow-burning, high-energy propellant, IMR 7828 SSC has become a staple for hunters and precision shooters who require maximum velocity from large magnum cases without compromising on consistent charge weights.
- Main Application: High-velocity loading in large-capacity, over-bored magnum rifle cartridges.
- Key Advantage: The super short grain geometry provides exceptional metering through mechanical dispensers and increases available case volume by up to 4 percent.
- Burn Rate: Very slow-burning rifle propellant, optimized for heavy-for-caliber bullets in magnum chambers.
- What This Guide Covers: Technical specifications, comparative analysis of the “Super Short Cut” geometry, temperature sensitivity profiles, and comprehensive reloading data for modern magnum calibers.
Best For: Long-range hunters and precision reloaders who utilize mechanical powder measures and need to maximize the volumetric efficiency of large magnum rifle cases.
Powder Description & Technical Profile
Physical properties of IMR 7828 SSC are defined by its specialized extruded architecture. While the chemical formulation is identical to the standard IMR 7828, the physical kernels have been significantly shortened. This “Super Short Cut” design allows the kernels to settle more tightly within the cartridge case, effectively increasing the “bulk density” during the loading process. This tighter packing allows for roughly 4 percent more powder to be added to a case before reaching a compressed load state compared to the standard long-cut version.
The expert “feel” of IMR 7828 SSC is one of progressive, sustained energy. In the internal ballistics cycle, it provides a smooth pressure curve that builds energy over a longer duration, making it ideal for longer barrels where it can continue to accelerate heavy projectiles. Because of its high energy density, it often yields higher muzzle velocities in cartridges like the 7mm Remington Magnum and 300 Winchester Magnum than faster-burning alternatives.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Superior metering consistency, often performing as well as spherical powders in mechanical measures.
- Pro: Increased case capacity allows for higher velocities in compressed load scenarios.
- Pro: Proven track record in “over-bore” cartridges where a slow, steady burn is required to maintain safe pressures.
- Con: Single-base construction can show higher temperature sensitivity (FPS shift) compared to modern “Extreme” series propellants.
- Con: Too slow for standard-capacity cartridges like 308 Winchester, where it may result in poor ignition or extremely low velocities.
Technical Characteristics
| Property | Specification |
| Manufacturer | IMR Powder Company |
| Powder Type | Extruded (Super Short Cut) |
| Base Type | Single-Base |
| Burn Rate Category | Very Slow Rifle / Magnum |
| Bulk Density | 59 lbs/ft3 / 945 kg/m3 |
| Density | 97.4 lbs/ft3 / 1560 kg/m3 |
| Grain Shape | Super Short Cylindrical |
Burn Rate and Temperature Stability
IMR 7828 SSC occupies a critical position in the slow-burning spectrum, being slightly slower than the Hodgdon H4831 family but faster than ultra-slow options like Hodgdon H1000. This positioning makes it highly versatile for a wide range of magnums, from the 243 Winchester with heavy bullets to the massive 30-378 Weatherby Magnum.
Environmental stability is a consideration for the IMR 7828 SSC user. While it is a reliable performer, it typically exhibits more velocity variation across extreme temperature swings than double-base or modern temperature-stabilized powders. Professional testing has shown velocity shifts in the range of 1.3-1.4 FPS per degree of temperature change, which is categorized as “marginal” to “fair” for extreme long-range hunting. Reloaders are advised to work up maximum loads in the temperatures they expect to encounter in the field.
Stability Table
| Powder | Sensitivity (FPS/Degree) | Stability Rating |
| IMR 7828 SSC | 1.30-1.40 FPS | Fair / Marginal |
| Hodgdon H1000 | 0.20-0.30 FPS | Excellent |
| Alliant Reloder 22 | 1.60-1.80 FPS | Sensitive |
Powder Comparison
The selection of IMR 7828 SSC is often a choice between volumetric efficiency and absolute temperature stability. Compared to its long-cut twin, IMR 7828 SSC is almost always the better choice due to its ease of use in powder drops.
4-Way Analysis
- Vs. Hodgdon H4831: H4831 is slightly faster and offers better temperature stability, but IMR 7828 SSC often produces higher top-end velocities in large magnums like the 7mm Remington Magnum.
- Vs. Alliant Reloder 22: These two are very similar in application. Reloder 22 is a double-base powder that can be more temperature sensitive than IMR 7828 SSC, though both are favored for high velocities in the 270 Winchester.
- Vs. Hodgdon H1000: H1000 is slower and much more temperature-stable. It is often preferred for 300 Winchester Magnum match loads, whereas IMR 7828 SSC is frequently chosen for hunting loads where high velocity is the primary goal.
- Vs. Hodgdon Retumbo: Retumbo is significantly slower and designed for ultra-large cases like the 300 Remington Ultra Magnum. IMR 7828 SSC remains the better choice for “standard” magnums where Retumbo would result in overly compressed loads.
Comparison Table
| Powder Name | Burn Rate | Density (g/cc) | Primary Cartridges |
| IMR 7828 SSC | Very Slow | 0.945 | 7mm Remington Magnum, 300 Winchester Magnum |
| Hodgdon H4831 | Slow | 0.920-0.940 | 270 Winchester, 25-06 Remington |
| Alliant Reloder 22 | Slow-Mag | 0.945 | 300 Winchester Magnum, 6.5-284 Norma |
| Hodgdon H1000 | Ultra Slow | 0.925 | 300 PRC, 338 Lapua Magnum |
| Hodgdon Retumbo | Ultra Slow | 0.915 | 300 Remington Ultra Magnum, 7mm STW |
Applications and Performance
In modern 2026 hunting scenarios, IMR 7828 SSC continues to dominate in the bolt-action magnum market. Its “Super Short Cut” geometry allows it to cycle through high-speed progressive presses or precision electronic dispensers with minimal “crunching,” which is critical for maintaining low standard deviations in muzzle velocity. In semi-automatic magnums, it is rarely used because its slow burn rate creates high port pressures that can stress gas systems.
Performance-wise, IMR 7828 SSC is a remarkably clean-burning powder for its class. It leaves less abrasive residue than some older double-base powders, which can help preserve the throat life of high-velocity barrels.
Recommended Cartridges and Applications
IMR 7828 SSC is specifically recommended for cartridges that require slow ignition to push heavy projectiles without reaching dangerous pressure peaks.
| Cartridge | Primary Application |
| 7mm Remington Magnum | Long-range elk and mule deer hunting. |
| 300 Winchester Magnum | Heavy-hitting precision hunting for big game. |
| 300 Remington Ultra Magnum | Extreme long-range power for the largest North American game. |
| 270 Winchester | Maximum velocity with 140-150 grain bullets. |
| 243 Winchester | Heavy bullet (100-105 grain) predator and deer control. |
| 300 PRC | Modern long-range competition and heavy target work. |
| 30-378 Weatherby Magnum | Ultra-high velocity over-bore magnum performance. |
| 264 Winchester Magnum | Flat-shooting long-range varmint and game hunting. |
Bullets
To maximize the benefits of IMR 7828 SSC, reloaders should pair it with bullets featuring high ballistic coefficients that can utilize the sustained pressure curve.
| Brand | Model | Ideal Weight Range |
| Nosler | AccuBond | 140-200 Grains |
| Hornady | ELD-X | 145-212 Grains |
| Barnes | TTSX | 120-175 Grains |
| Nosler | Partition | 150-220 Grains |
| Remington | Core-Lokt | 130-180 Grains |
Primers
Because IMR 7828 SSC is a slow-burning extruded powder typically used in large-volume cases, a Large Rifle Magnum primer is essential for consistent ignition across all environmental conditions.
| Model | Type | Best Application |
| Federal 215M | Large Rifle Magnum | The “gold standard” for consistent magnum ignition. |
| CCI 250 | Large Rifle Magnum | Reliable performance for standard hunting magnums. |
| Winchester WLRM | Large Rifle Magnum | High-heat ignition for cold-weather hunting loads. |
| RWS 5333 | Large Rifle Magnum | Exceptional consistency for precision match loads. |
| Remington 9-1/2M | Large Rifle Magnum | Traditional choice for 7mm and 30-caliber magnums. |
| Murom KVB-7M | Large Rifle Magnum | High-value, reliable ignition for high-volume shooters. |
| Fiocchi 6.5 LRM | Large Rifle Magnum | Modern primer with very consistent cup dimensions. |
| CCI BR-2 | Large Rifle | Use only in smaller magnums (e.g., 243 Winchester) in mild weather. |
| Federal 210M | Large Rifle | Precision match choice for “short” magnums. |
Conclusion and Expert Verdict
The IMR 7828 SSC remains a dominant force in the world of heavy magnums because it bridges the gap between old-world power and modern loading efficiency. While it may lack the extreme temperature indifference of some competitors, it more than makes up for it with its incredible metering precision and the ability to squeeze extra energy into a full case. For the reloader who wants the absolute maximum velocity out of a 7mm Remington Magnum or a 300 Winchester Magnum while using a mechanical powder thrower, IMR 7828 SSC is arguably the best tool for the job.
Expert Pro Tip: Because IMR 7828 SSC allows for 4 percent more powder space, you can often reach higher velocities than standard 7828. However, always start your load development with standard IMR 7828 data and work up slowly. The tighter kernel packing can sometimes lead to a slightly faster initial pressure spike. For best results in cartridges like the 300 Remington Ultra Magnum, use a drop tube to ensure the powder settles evenly, maximizing that extra 4 percent volume.
