The introduction of Vihtavuori N568 represents a strategic evolution in the world of precision propellants, specifically designed to bridge the gap between heavy-duty magnum powders. As modern long-range shooting and hunting continue to push toward heavier, high-ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets, the demand for a powder that can provide consistent velocity without excessive pressure spikes has never been higher. Vihtavuori N568 is engineered to meet these demands, offering the high-energy characteristics of the N500 series with a burn rate tailored for large-capacity cases.
Executive Summary
- Main Application: Optimized for large-capacity magnum cartridges using heavy-for-caliber bullets, such as 7mm PRC, 300 PRC, and 338 Lapua Magnum.
- Key Advantage: Provides the superior energy density of a double-base powder while maintaining the temperature stability typically associated with single-base propellants.
- Burn Rate: Extremely slow-burning; positioned strategically between Vihtavuori N565 and Vihtavuori N570.
- What This Guide Covers: A deep dive into the technical geometry of Vihtavuori N568, its temperature sensitivity profile, comprehensive comparison with industry benchmarks, and optimized component pairings for maximum accuracy.
Best For: Serious long-range competitors and big-game hunters who require maximum velocity and extreme vertical consistency at distances exceeding 1000 yards.
Powder Description & Technical Profile
Vihtavuori N568 belongs to the prestigious N500 High Energy series produced in Finland. Unlike the standard N100 series, which are single-base nitrocellulose powders, the N500 series incorporates nitroglycerin into the grain structure. This addition increases the energy content per unit of weight, allowing reloaders to achieve higher velocities than are possible with traditional single-base powders of a similar burn rate.
The physical geometry of Vihtavuori N568 consists of large, perforated extruded sticks. The grains are larger than those of Vihtavuori N560, which is necessary to control the burn rate for magnum applications. Despite its high energy content, Vihtavuori N568 is treated with advanced decoppering agents to reduce barrel fouling, a critical feature for shooters using large volumes of powder in high-velocity cartridges.
The “expert feel” of Vihtavuori N568 is characterized by a progressive pressure curve. Rather than a sharp, sudden peak, it delivers a sustained push throughout the length of the barrel. This “linear” acceleration is what allows it to drive heavy bullets like the 180 grain 7mm or 225 grain 30 caliber projectiles to exceptional speeds without the erratic pressure signs often seen with faster magnum propellants.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Higher energy density allows for increased velocity over single-base competitors.
- Pro: Exceptional temperature stability across extreme environmental ranges.
- Pro: Added decoppering agents significantly extend the interval between deep cleanings.
- Pro: Fills the case efficiently, providing high load density for consistent ignition.
- Con: The large grain size can be challenging to meter through traditional volumetric measures.
- Con: Higher cost per pound compared to domestic spherical or standard extruded options.
- Con: May require a magnum primer to ensure consistent ignition in cold weather due to its high energy density.
Technical Characteristics
The technical profile of Vihtavuori N568 is defined by its slow burn rate and high bulk density. In the hierarchy of the Vihtavuori line, it acts as the perfect middle ground for shooters who find Vihtavuori N565 slightly too fast for their heavy-bullet loads, yet find Vihtavuori N570 too bulky to fit in the case.
| Attribute | Specification |
| Grain Type | Large Extruded (Stick) |
| Base | Double-Base (High Energy) |
| Density (g/l) | 940-960 |
| Burn Rate Category | Extremely Slow |
| Primary Coating | Decoppering and Flash Suppressant |
Temperature Stability & Burn Rate Analysis
Temperature stability is a hallmark of the Vihtavuori brand, and Vihtavuori N568 is no exception. In long-range precision shooting, a variation of even 20-30 FPS due to ambient temperature changes can result in a significant vertical miss at long range. Vihtavuori N568 utilizes a proprietary chemical stabilizer that keeps the burn rate remarkably consistent from sub-zero hunting conditions to the blistering heat of a summer competition.
Internal testing and reloader consensus suggest that Vihtavuori N568 exhibits a velocity deviation of less than 0.5 FPS per degree Fahrenheit across a standard range. This places it in the top tier of temperature-stable powders, rivaling the famous Hodgdon Extreme series.
Stability Comparison Table
| Powder | Stability Rating | Typical FPS Variation |
| Vihtavuori N568 | Excellent | 0.3-0.5 FPS per degree |
| Hodgdon H1000 | Benchmark | 0.2-0.4 FPS per degree |
| Alliant Reloder 22 | Sensitive | 1.0-1.5 FPS per degree |
Powder Comparison
To understand where Vihtavuori N568 fits in the market, it must be compared against its primary competitors. We have selected two powders that are slightly faster and two that are slower to provide a clear view of its performance envelope.
- Vihtavuori N565: A slightly faster relative. Vihtavuori N565 is often the choice for 6.5 PRC or 300 Winchester Magnum with mid-weight bullets. Vihtavuori N568 takes over when bullet weights increase or case capacity grows.
- Hodgdon H1000: The gold standard for many magnum shooters. While Hodgdon H1000 is exceptionally stable, Vihtavuori N568 often provides a velocity edge due to its high-energy double-base construction.
- Vihtavuori N570: The slowest powder in the N500 series. Vihtavuori N570 offers even more velocity potential but has extremely large grains that are notorious for difficult metering and rapid barrel wear. Vihtavuori N568 is more barrel-friendly and easier to load.
- Hodgdon Retumbo: A direct competitor in the slow-magnum category. Hodgdon Retumbo is a single-base powder known for its performance in 7mm Remington Magnum and 300 PRC. Vihtavuori N568 serves as a high-performance alternative for those seeking the specific pressure curve of Vihtavuori propellants.
Comparison Table: Magnum Propellants
| Powder Name | Burn Rate | Density (g/l) | Primary Cartridges |
| Vihtavuori N565 | Medium-Slow Magnum | 930 | 6.5 PRC, 300 Winchester Magnum |
| Hodgdon H1000 | Slow Magnum | 920 | 7mm Remington Magnum, 338 Lapua |
| Vihtavuori N568 | Very Slow Magnum | 950 | 7mm PRC, 300 PRC, 338 Lapua |
| Hodgdon Retumbo | Extremely Slow | 915 | 7mm PRC, 300 RUM, 28 Nosler |
| Vihtavuori N570 | Slowest | 910 | 338 Lapua, 30-378 Weatherby |
Performance, Metering & Equipment
Because Vihtavuori N568 is a large extruded powder, metering is a primary concern. Hand-weighing every charge is standard practice for the types of long-range applications this powder is used for. Standard volumetric powder measures may “crunch” the grains, leading to inconsistent charge weights.
For the best results, we recommend using a high-precision digital dispenser such as the RCBS ChargeMaster Link Digital Powder Scale and Dispenser or the Hornady Auto Charge Pro Digital Powder Scale and Dispenser. These tools ensure that every grain is accounted for, which is essential when working with the high-energy densities of Vihtavuori N568. For final micro-adjustments, a Frankford Arsenal Powder Trickler is an invaluable addition to the bench.
Fouling with Vihtavuori N568 is remarkably low for a double-base powder. The integration of a decoppering agent works as the bullet passes through the bore, chemically reacting with copper deposits to keep them in a soft state that is easily pushed out by the next shot or a simple patch. This leads to longer strings of fire before accuracy begins to degrade.
Recommended Cartridges and Applications
Vihtavuori N568 truly shines in “modern magnums” – cartridges designed with long throats and fast twist rates to accommodate the heaviest bullets in their respective calibers.
| Cartridge | Primary Application |
| 6.5 PRC | ELR Competition and Medium Game Hunting |
| 7mm PRC | Long-Range Precision and Big Game Hunting |
| 300 PRC | Extreme Long Range (ELR) and Heavy Target |
| 300 Winchester Magnum | Classic Magnum Hunting with Heavy Bullets |
| 338 Lapua Magnum | Military Sniper and ELR Target Applications |
| 28 Nosler | High-Velocity Western Big Game Hunting |
| 300 Remington Ultra Magnum | Ultra-Long Range Large Game |
Bullets
When using Vihtavuori N568, the goal is typically to maximize the performance of heavy, aerodynamic projectiles. Lighter bullets may not provide enough neck tension or resistance to fully utilize the slow burn rate of this propellant.
| Caliber | Recommended Weight (Grains) | Recommended Models |
| 6.5mm | 147-156 | Hornady ELD-Match, Berger EOL Hunter |
| 7mm | 175-195 | Sierra MatchKing, Berger Hybrid Target |
| 30 Caliber | 200-245 | Hornady A-Tip, Berger VLD Hunting |
| 338 Caliber | 250-300 | Lapua Scenar, Sierra GameKing |
Primers
Consistent ignition of a large, high-density powder charge requires a powerful and consistent primer. Because Vihtavuori N568 is used in large cases, a Large Rifle Magnum primer is almost always required to ensure the flame front reaches the front of the powder column evenly.
- Federal 215: The industry standard for magnum ignition; highly recommended for Vihtavuori N568.
- CCI 250: A reliable, heavy-duty magnum primer with a thick cup.
- RWS 5333: A premium European option known for extreme consistency in cold weather.
- Remington 9-1-2M: A balanced magnum primer that works well with heavy extruded charges.
- Winchester WLRM: Known for a very hot spark, excellent for large cases like 300 PRC.
- Fiocchi Large Rifle Magnum: A consistent international choice for precision loading.
- Ginex Large Rifle Magnum: A robust primer often favored by those looking for high-volume availability.
- Federal GM215M: The Match version of the 215, offering the lowest possible standard deviations in velocity.
Expert Verdict
Vihtavuori N568 is a specialized tool for the modern reloader. It is not a general-purpose powder; rather, it is a precision instrument designed for a specific class of cartridges that demand high energy and slow-burning stability. By filling the gap between Vihtavuori N565 and Vihtavuori N570, Vihtavuori has provided shooters with a way to optimize their loads for 7mm PRC and 300 PRC without compromising on case fill or barrel life. Its temperature stability and decoppering features make it one of the most advanced propellants on the market today.
Expert Pro Tip: When loading Vihtavuori N568 in cartridges with high case fill, consider using a long drop tube with your funnel. Because of the large grain size, Vihtavuori N568 can settle unevenly. A slow pour through a drop tube helps the grains align vertically, increasing your usable case volume and preventing the need for excessive “compressed loads,” which can lead to bullet runout or inconsistent neck tension.
