The introduction of Ramshot LRT (Large Rifle Tactical) marked a significant shift in the landscape of ultra-slow burning propellants. Historically, the slowest burn rates were dominated by large extruded “stick” powders, which, while consistent, often presented challenges in volumetric metering and case fill density. Ramshot LRT was engineered by Western Powders (now under the Hodgdon Powder Company umbrella) to bridge this gap, offering a modern, high-density spherical propellant specifically optimized for the most demanding magnum cartridges in the world. As Extreme Long Range (ELR) shooting and heavy-bullet hunting continue to grow in popularity, Ramshot LRT has emerged as a primary contender for those seeking the perfect balance of high energy, ease of loading, and raw velocity.
Executive Summary
- Main Application: Optimized for large-capacity magnum cartridges using heavy-for-caliber bullets, particularly 300 PRC, 338 Lapua Magnum, and the Nosler magnum family.
- Key Advantage: Exceptional density and spherical geometry allow for maximum case fill and perfect metering through automated dispensers.
- Burn Rate: Extremely slow; the slowest propellant in the Ramshot catalog, positioned near Hodgdon Retumbo.
- What This Guide Covers: Technical chemistry of Ramshot LRT, comparative analysis with industry benchmarks, metering equipment requirements, and optimized component selection.
Best For: Long-range precision shooters and big-game hunters utilizing modern magnum cartridges that require slow pressure curves and maximum propellant volume.
Powder Description & Technical Profile
Ramshot LRT is a double-base spherical powder. The “double-base” designation signifies that the nitrocellulose base is infused with nitroglycerin, which increases the energy density of the propellant. This allows Ramshot LRT to pack more “punch” per grain than a single-base powder of similar volume. The physical geometry is that of a finely grained sphere, which is a hallmark of the Ramshot brand. This design is not merely for aesthetics; spherical powders flow with liquid-like precision through mechanical powder measures, eliminating the “crunching” or inconsistent drops often associated with large extruded sticks like Vihtavuori N570.
The expert “feel” of Ramshot LRT is characterized by its sustained, progressive pressure curve. In high-capacity cases like 28 Nosler or 300 PRC, the powder does not reach peak pressure instantly. Instead, it provides a consistent, high-volume gas expansion that continues to accelerate the bullet throughout the entire length of a 26-inch or 28-inch barrel. This makes Ramshot LRT particularly effective for pushing 215-250 grain 30 caliber bullets or 300 grain 33 caliber projectiles to their ballistic limits without exceeding safe pressure thresholds.
Furthermore, Ramshot LRT is formulated with modern stabilizers and flash suppressants. While ball powders were once criticized for being “dirty,” the high-temperature burn of Ramshot LRT ensures a relatively clean consumption of the propellant, provided it is used in the high-pressure regimes for which it was designed.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Market-leading bulk density allows for more powder weight in a given case volume.
- Pro: Flawless metering through equipment like the RCBS ChargeMaster Lite.
- Pro: Capable of producing world-class velocities in 338 Lapua Magnum and 300 PRC.
- Pro: Generally more cost-effective and available than some high-end European imports.
- Con: Like most double-base spherical powders, it can be more sensitive to temperature than the Hodgdon Extreme series.
- Con: Requires a heavy magnum primer for consistent ignition due to high density and coating.
- Con: Small grains can occasionally leak through older or looser-fitting mechanical powder measures.
Technical Characteristics
The technical profile of Ramshot LRT is centered around its incredibly high density. In magnum reloading, “case fill” is a critical variable; a case that is 95-100% full of powder typically produces lower velocity standard deviations (SDs) and better accuracy. Ramshot LRT fills this role perfectly.
| Attribute | Specification |
| Grain Type | Spherical (Ball) |
| Base | Double-Base (High Energy) |
| Density (g/cc) | 0.985-1.010 |
| Burn Rate Category | Extremely Slow |
| Primary Coating | Flash Suppressant and Deterrent |
Temperature Stability & Burn Rate Analysis
A primary concern for any long-range reloader is how a powder reacts to the environment. Ramshot LRT uses a modern chemical stabilizer package that makes it significantly more stable than old-school ball powders like Winchester 760. However, it is important to note that it sits slightly behind the Hodgdon H1000 or Vihtavuori N568 in terms of absolute thermal “immunity.”
In testing, Ramshot LRT shows consistent performance from 20-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If shooting in extreme heat (above 95 degrees), reloaders may see a velocity increase of 0.8-1.2 FPS per degree. For this reason, it is recommended to develop “max” loads in the summer or to leave a slight safety margin if the load will be used across a 100-degree temperature swing.
Stability Table
| Powder | Stability Rating | Typical FPS Variation |
| Ramshot LRT | Good | 0.8-1.0 FPS per degree |
| Hodgdon Retumbo | Excellent | 0.3-0.5 FPS per degree |
| Alliant Reloder 33 | Moderate | 1.1-1.3 FPS per degree |
Powder Comparison
To understand where Ramshot LRT fits, it must be compared against the “titans” of the magnum world.
- Hodgdon Retumbo: This is the closest functional competitor. While Hodgdon Retumbo is an extruded powder with better temperature stability, Ramshot LRT often provides more velocity in 300 PRC due to its higher density and energy content.
- Vihtavuori N570: The Finnish powerhouse. Vihtavuori N570 is even more energetic but is notoriously difficult to meter and can be harder on barrels. Ramshot LRT is a more user-friendly alternative for high-volume shooters.
- Alliant Reloder 26: A faster-burning “Super-Magnum” powder. Alliant Reloder 26 is incredible in 7mm PRC, but for the larger 338 cases, Ramshot LRT offers a safer, more progressive pressure curve.
- Alliant Reloder 33: Slower than Ramshot LRT, this powder is almost exclusively for the 338 Lapua Magnum and 338-378 Weatherby. Ramshot LRT is more versatile, crossing over into the “smaller” magnums like 7mm Remington Magnum with heavy bullets.
Comparison Table: Magnum Propellants
| Powder Name | Burn Rate | Density (g/cc) | Primary Cartridges |
| Alliant Reloder 26 | Slow-Magnum | 0.945 | 7mm PRC, 300 Winchester Magnum |
| Hodgdon Retumbo | Extremely Slow | 0.915 | 28 Nosler, 300 PRC |
| Ramshot LRT | Extremely Slow | 1.000 | 300 PRC, 338 Lapua Magnum |
| Vihtavuori N570 | Ultra-Slow | 0.920 | 338 Lapua, 30-378 Weatherby |
| Alliant Reloder 33 | Slower | 0.950 | 338 Lapua, 375 CheyTac |
Performance, Metering & Equipment
One of the greatest joys of loading with Ramshot LRT is the ease of the process. Because the powder is spherical, it does not “bridge” in the powder funnel. This is a critical safety factor; with large extruded powders, a “bridge” can result in half a charge in one case and a double-overflow in the next. With Ramshot LRT, the powder flows like water.
For maximum precision, we recommend using a digital dispenser like the RCBS ChargeMaster Lite. This tool will drop Ramshot LRT to within 0.1 grain accuracy every single time without the need for the constant “straw tuning” required for stick powders. For those hand-trickling, the Frankford Arsenal Powder Trickler is incredibly responsive with this powder, as the small grains allow for micro-adjustments that large sticks cannot match.
In terms of barrel life, Ramshot LRT is surprisingly gentle for a high-energy powder. Because it is a ball powder, it lacks the sharp edges of extruded grains which can contribute to mechanical erosion of the throat during the initial ignition phase. However, as with all magnum propellants, the sheer volume of heat generated in a 300 PRC or 28 Nosler will eventually take its toll.
Recommended Cartridges and Applications
Ramshot LRT is at home in cases with a large “Overbore” ratio—where the case volume is massive relative to the bore diameter.
| Cartridge | Primary Application |
| 7mm PRC | Long-Range Hunting with 180-195 grain bullets |
| 28 Nosler | Extreme Velocity Western Big Game Hunting |
| 300 PRC | The “Sweet Spot” for Ramshot LRT; ELR Target and Hunting |
| 30 Nosler | High-Efficiency 30 caliber Magnum Performance |
| 300 Winchester Magnum | Optimized for 210-230 grain heavy-bullet loads |
| 338 Lapua Magnum | Tactical and ELR use with 285-300 grain projectiles |
| 300 Remington Ultra Magnum | Maximum energy for the world’s largest game |
Bullets
When using Ramshot LRT, avoid light-for-caliber bullets. The powder is too slow to build efficient pressure with a 150 grain 30 caliber bullet. Instead, focus on high-BC (Ballistic Coefficient) projectiles that offer significant resistance.
| Caliber | Recommended Weight (Grains) | Recommended Models |
| 7mm | 175-195 | Hornady ELD-Match, Berger Hybrid Target |
| 30 Caliber | 210-250 | Sierra MatchKing, Hornady A-Tip |
| 338 Caliber | 250-300 | Lapua Scenar-L, Berger Elite Hunter |
Primers
Double-base spherical powders like Ramshot LRT are coated with deterrents to control the burn rate. These coatings, combined with the high density of the powder column, require a very “hot” and sustained primer flame to ensure consistent ignition, especially in cold weather. Standard Large Rifle primers should be avoided; only Large Rifle Magnum (LRM) primers should be used.
- Federal 215: The gold standard for Ramshot LRT. Its massive flame front ensures perfect ignition.
- CCI 250: A robust and reliable magnum primer with a thick cup for high-pressure loads.
- Winchester WLRM: Known for being one of the “hottest” magnum primers available.
- Federal GM215M: The match version of the 215, offering the lowest velocity SDs.
- RWS 5333: An exceptional European primer for ultra-magnum cases.
- Remington 9-1-2M: A reliable alternative if the primary three are unavailable.
- Fiocchi Large Rifle Magnum: A consistent choice for those loading in high volume.
- CCI No. 34: A military-spec magnum primer that provides extra safety against slam-fires in semi-autos.
Expert Verdict
Ramshot LRT is a powerhouse propellant that has earned its place in the rotation of every serious magnum reloader. It excels in the very areas where traditional powders struggle—metering and case density. While it may not have the absolute temperature stability of a single-base extruded “Extreme” powder, its ability to push heavy bullets to incredible velocities with single-digit velocity spreads makes it a formidable choice for any 300 PRC or 338 Lapua shooter. If you are tired of “crunching” stick powder and want a propellant that flows like water while hitting like a freight train, Ramshot LRT is your solution.
Expert Pro Tip: When loading Ramshot LRT in large cases like the 300 Remington Ultra Magnum, do not be afraid of a slightly compressed load. Because spherical grains are so small, they can be compressed more uniformly than extruded sticks. A 103-105% load density often yields the best accuracy and lowest velocity spreads with Ramshot LRT, as it ensures the powder column is perfectly stabilized against the primer flash.
