Alliant Herco

Alliant Herco is a smokeless, double-base reloading powder best known for its versatility in high-performance shotgun and handgun loads. Originally popular in heavy field shotshell applications, Herco also became a common choice among handgun reloaders who want a powder that can deliver higher velocities and consistent performance in medium-to-high pressure pistol cartridges. It typically burns slower than very fast target powders, making it well suited for loads that benefit from a slightly longer pressure curve and more energy potential.

Herco is often used in cartridges such as 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .45 ACP +P, and .38 Super, and it can also work well in some revolver applications. Compared with faster powders, it generally uses larger charge weights and can provide good load density, which may support consistent ignition and stable velocities. Many shooters describe Herco as capable of producing strong performance with jacketed bullets, heavier handgun bullets, and higher-energy loads where ultra-fast powders may reach pressure limits quickly.