Hogdon CFE 223 and CFE Pistol Frosting Bores?

[marcruger]

Hi Folks,

When the CFE 223 was debuted, I read an in depth article where the writer used a bore scope.

The writer gave all of the benefits, but noted that the powder left the bore with an unusual “frosted” appearance after the gun was fully cleaned. Has anyone else noted this?

In lead bullet shooting (muzzleloading, BPCR, handguns) I have always understood that having mirror polished bore was a good thing. I am wondering if this “frosting” will in the long run be detrimental to a bore. I haven’t seen any more about this written or mentioned.

The CFE powders appear to be very versatile, easier to clean up after, and provide good accuracy. That little voice in the back of my head keeps saying, “Remember that frosted comment”. I’d like to try some CFE, but am still reluctant.

Best wishes, Marc

[marcruger]

I did some looking just now, and it was a Dick Metcalf article. I mis-spoke. He said it was dull afterwards. Here is the quote....

"There was essentially zero copper fouling left by the CFE223 handloads. Even the area around the internal gas port, which usually draws considerable fouling in AR barrels, was free of any trace of copper residue. So was the leade into the rifling at the rear of the bore, where rifling compression pressure on the bullet is at its highest and hottest. The only thing I noticed was that the bore surface seemed to be somewhat dull and less reflective compared to its surface when freshly cleaned."

So, have any of you shot CFE a lot, and scoped afterwards?

Many thanks, Marc