In 1947, Bruce Hodgdon, an avid handloader, saw an opportunity when major US manufacturers shifted away from selling handloading components to focus on mass-produced ammunition. He purchased surplus military powder, specifically , and began selling it in metal cans with hand-glued labels from the back of his family's car. Evolution into the "Annual Manual"
: For decades, Hodgdon released dedicated hardcover data manuals (such as Manual Number 22 in 1974 and Number 23 in 1977) which became essential references for the hobby. able Hodgdon Reloading Manual
: Today, the publication is known as the Hodgdon Annual Manual (now in its 21st year as an annual edition). It consolidates data from multiple major brands, including Hodgdon , IMR , Winchester , Ramshot , and Accurate . In 1947, Bruce Hodgdon, an avid handloader, saw