Vihtavuori 20N29 Smokeless Gun Powder: Extreme-Range Magnum Powder for .50 BMG & Large Magnum Cartridges

Vihtavuori 20N29 is a specialty extreme-range rifle powder originally developed for .50 BMG and Finnish military use — not part of Vihtavuori’s standard N100 or N500 series. It’s built for large-capacity magnum cartridges and heavy bullets where long-range target shooters need a slow, consistent burn.

Built for Extreme-Range Magnum Performance

20N29 uses a large single-base grain measuring 2.3mm long and 1.3mm in diameter — notably larger than Vihtavuori’s N100-series grains, suited to its very slow-burning role. On Vihtavuori’s own burn-rate chart, 20N29 is one of the slowest powders Vihtavuori makes, sitting just behind Vihtavuori 24N41 (a slightly faster-burning sibling also built for .50 BMG). Vihtavuori’s production process controls the full chain from nitrocellulose manufacture to final bottling, giving the lot-to-lot consistency long-range reloaders need for repeatable results.

Application Versatility

20N29 has official published load data for a focused list of large-capacity magnum and extreme-range cartridges: 6.5 PRC, .300 Lapua Magnum, .30-378 Weatherby Magnum, .375 CheyTac, and .50 BMG (.50 Browning). Vihtavuori positions it specifically for large caliber and magnum applications with heavy bullets in long-range target shooting, and it’s ideally suited for .50 BMG. If you need a slightly faster-burning option in the same specialty family, Vihtavuori 24N41 is worth comparing.

Load Development

Always use published, manufacturer-tested load data when developing loads with 20N29. Start at the published minimum charge and work up in small increments, weigh every charge on a calibrated scale, and chronograph each string to track velocity consistency. Keep primer brand, bullet lot, and brass lot constant during development, watch for pressure signs, and document charge weight, seating depth, primer, and chronograph results so successful loads can be reproduced.

Quick Specs

• Type: Single-base surface-treated rifle powder, specialty extreme-range/magnum family (not N100 or N500 series), very slow burn rate, 2.3mm x 1.3mm grain
• Manufacturer: Vihtavuori (Finland)
• Best for: .50 BMG, .375 CheyTac, .300 Lapua Magnum, .30-378 Weatherby Magnum, and 6.5 PRC
• Container sizes: 1 Lb, 8 Lb

Safety Reminders

Before loading, review a few important guidelines. Never exceed the loads displayed in your reloading guide. Never mix two powders together, regardless of type, brand, or source. Never substitute smokeless powder for Black Powder or any Black Powder substitute. Store 20N29 in its original, sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from sunlight and heat sources.

Vihtavuori 20N29 For Sale, In Stock

USReloadingPowder keeps Vihtavuori 20N29 Smokeless Gun Powder in stock for long-range shooters and .50 BMG reloaders who need a proven extreme-range magnum powder. Browse the rest of our lineup on the Vihtavuori Powders category page.

FAQs

What cartridges is 20N29 best for? It has official published load data for .50 BMG, .375 CheyTac, .300 Lapua Magnum, .30-378 Weatherby Magnum, and 6.5 PRC — a focused list of large-capacity magnum and extreme-range cartridges.

Is 20N29 part of the N100 or N500 series? No — it’s a specialty powder developed originally for .50 BMG and Finnish military use, grouped with 24N41 as Vihtavuori’s dedicated extreme-range magnum powders.

How does 20N29 compare to 24N41? Both are built for .50 BMG and similar large magnum cartridges; 20N29 burns slightly slower than 24N41 on Vihtavuori’s own burn-rate chart.

How should I store it long-term? Keep it sealed in its original container, stored in a cool, dry, ventilated location away from heat and sunlight. Proper storage keeps powder stable for years.