I have used N-160 before, but not N-165. I was recently given a 1.5lbs of N-160, and 2lbs of N-165. Burn rates for the 2 are listed relatively equal to R-19 and R-22 which I am very familiar with. In my .280, R-19 and N-160 are virtually interchangable, though the load book data doesn't always indicate that. Further, I looked at Nosler #5 and Vihtavuori's online reloading data today for my 7mmRM. For 160gr bullets in the Nosler manual the max powder charge for N-165 is 61grs. In the Vihtavuori manual the max charge for N-165 with 160s is: 65.1 grains for a Speer GS, and 73.4 grains (that is 73.4 grs and not a misprint on my part). Vihtavuori's own data varies 8 grains with similar wt bullets, and as much as 13 grains from other manuals. I notice too, that the load data in non-Vihtavuori manuals for Vihtavuori powders, especially N-160 and N-165 is VERY conservative. But with the N-165 data so varied, I'd appreciate any data that anyone has from actual use. I will be loading in .280, 7mmRM, 30-06, and .300WinMag. Any info will be much appreciated.
