Safety First
Essential Safety Precautions When Handloading
The venerable 45-70 Government cartridge has a storied past, etched into the annals of American history and the legacy of firearms. From its origins as a military round to its continued popularity with hunters and handloaders today, the 45-70 maintains its reputation as a powerful and versatile cartridge. While jacketed bullets certainly have their place, handloading with cast bullets unlocks a special dimension of enjoyment and performance for this iconic caliber. This guide delves into the intricacies of crafting accurate and effective loads using cast bullets in the 45-70, ensuring you can safely and successfully embark on your handloading journey.
Handling and Storing Powders and Primers Safely
The heart of handloading lies in respecting the tools and processes. Before diving into the specifics of the 45-70, we must first acknowledge the importance of safety. Handloading, while rewarding, involves handling potentially dangerous materials and working with high pressures. Following specific guidelines is not optional, but critical for safe and enjoyable reloading.
The Importance of a Quality Reloading Manual
Always prioritize safety. Eye protection is non-negotiable; protect your eyes from stray debris, primer residue, and potential explosions. Similarly, hearing protection is essential. Consistent exposure to the high-decibel sound of gunfire can lead to hearing loss. Use earplugs or earmuffs during the reloading process and when shooting. Handloading is best conducted in a well-ventilated and organized workspace. Keep the area free from distractions and clutter, and avoid smoking or any open flames near powders or primers.
Inspecting Your Firearm and Ammunition
Careful handling and secure storage of powders and primers are paramount. Store these components in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Never mix powders or primers, and always return them to their original containers after use. Know the properties of the materials you are handling. A quality reloading manual, by a reputable source, is your handloading bible. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and load data precisely. Start with the minimum recommended powder charge and work your way up cautiously while monitoring for pressure signs.
Understanding Cast Bullets for the 45-70
Advantages of Using Cast Bullets
Before you ever chamber a loaded round, meticulously inspect your firearm. Ensure the bore is clean and unobstructed. Inspect the action for any signs of wear or damage. Regular maintenance of your firearm is crucial for safety. The proper inspection of your ammunition is also vital; check for any defects in the casing, bullet, or primer. Discard any round that shows signs of damage or instability.
Bullet Weight Considerations
The real beauty of handloading with cast bullets in the 45-70 emerges when you understand the fundamentals of using them effectively. The advantages of cast bullets are numerous. They offer the potential for exceptional accuracy, especially when combined with the right components and techniques. Cast bullets often prove cost-effective compared to their jacketed counterparts, making handloading a more economical option, especially for high-volume shooting. Also, cast bullets, depending on their makeup, are typically gentler on the barrel compared to jacketed bullets, reducing wear and tear.
Bullet Alloy and Hardness Considerations
The choice of bullet weight is critical. The 45-70 is versatile, accepting a wide range of bullet weights. The lightest, around three hundred grains, can be effective for certain applications, but the standard range falls in the higher end of the spectrum. The heavier bullets, like those weighing four hundred grains or more, excel at longer ranges and offer superior penetration. Be mindful of the trajectory; heavier bullets drop more over distance, requiring precise aiming adjustments. Recoil is also influenced by bullet weight; heavier bullets generate more felt recoil. Consider your own shooting abilities when choosing bullet weight.
Bullet Designs
Bullet alloy composition is a cornerstone of cast bullet performance. The alloy’s hardness, measured on the Brinell scale (BHN), significantly impacts accuracy and the prevention of leading – the buildup of lead in the barrel. A bullet that is too soft may strip the rifling, reducing accuracy and causing lead fouling. On the other hand, a bullet that is too hard may not obturate correctly, sealing the bore effectively and potentially leading to poor accuracy. Your rifle’s action plays a role. Some actions handle higher pressures better than others, so consider the recommendations that come with your specific rifle.
Bullet Sizing
Bullet design itself is another critical consideration. Many different styles of 45-70 bullets exist. Flat-nosed bullets are commonly used in lever-action rifles because they are less likely to cause accidental ignition of cartridges in the magazine. Round-nosed bullets can offer good ballistics and can feed reliably in some actions. Bullet nose design affects both external ballistics and terminal performance. A wide meplat (flat nose) increases the chance of transferring more energy to the target.
Powder, Primers and Procedure
Choosing the Right Powder
Understanding the process of properly sizing your bullets is another important factor. Proper sizing is necessary to establish good accuracy. The bullet’s diameter must match the bore’s dimensions. When a bullet is undersized, gases will escape past the bullet, reducing velocity and accuracy. Conversely, oversized bullets will require excessive force to seat, which could damage the bullet. Tools such as sizing dies and lubrisizers are essential for achieving the desired dimensions and applying the correct lubrication.
Primer Selection
Now for the fun part: Choosing the right components. The process of crafting effective loads in your 45-70 starts with understanding the various powders. Powder selection is a critical element in reloading and depends on the desired bullet weight and rifle. Several powders are well-suited for cast bullets in the 45-70. Powders like IMR 4198, Reloder 7, and H4198 offer good performance, providing good velocities and accuracy. Trail Boss powder is popular for reduced-recoil loads. Black powder itself is historically accurate and adds to the authenticity for those seeking to replicate the old-school experience.
Load Data Tables
The burn rate of a powder, the speed at which it combusts, is related to the performance of the bullet. Faster-burning powders are often suitable for lighter bullets, while slower-burning powders work well with heavier bullets. Always consult your reloading manual for specific powder recommendations and load data. Consider your rifle action as well. Some rifles, like trapdoor Springfields, are not designed for the same pressure loads as modern rifles. Consult with the rifle manufacturer.
Reloading Procedures for Cast Bullets
Safety must always be the highest priority when selecting powder charge weights. Begin by consulting a reputable reloading manual and use the recommended starting charge. Carefully weigh each powder charge using a precision scale. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge. Start low and work up. Gradually increase the powder charge in small increments, carefully observing any pressure signs such as flattened primers, difficult bolt opening, or ejected cases.
Achieving Accuracy with Cast Bullets
Importance of Proper Bullet Seating Depth
Primer selection is also important. Primers vary in sensitivity and power. Generally, large rifle primers are used in the 45-70. Magnum primers are sometimes recommended for slow-burning powders or when handloading in cold weather, however it depends on the primer, bullet and powder used. Choosing the right primer can optimize the ignition of the powder.
Controlling Velocity for Best Results
Let’s get to some load data. Keep in mind this is a general guide, and always consult multiple sources and reduce the listed charges when starting:
For a 300-grain cast bullet, IMR 4198 might be a good choice. Start with approximately 45 grains and carefully work up while watching for pressure signs.
For a 405-grain cast bullet, Reloder 7 could be suitable. Start around 40 grains and cautiously increase, observing for pressure issues.
For a 500-grain cast bullet, a slower-burning powder like IMR 4227 could work. Start around 35 grains and increment slowly.
Note: These are examples and should be verified with a reloading manual. ALWAYS refer to a reliable reloading manual for specific load data for your components.
The process of reloading cast bullets requires precision and attention to detail. Begin by cleaning your cases. Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the brass casings. This removes any debris and ensures reliable ignition. Case trimming is an essential step to ensure consistent case length. Trimming the cases to the recommended length promotes uniform neck tension, which leads to consistent bullet seating and improved accuracy.
Optimizing Powder Charge for Accuracy
Once the cases are prepared, prime them. Use the appropriate primer for the powder you have chosen. Seat the primer firmly in the primer pocket. Then, carefully charge each case with the correct amount of powder. Use a powder scale to ensure precise measurement and avoid overcharging. Use a powder measure to make sure that each case is filled with the correct amount of powder.
Testing and Troubleshooting
Seating the bullet correctly is another critical step. Seat the bullet to the recommended depth and ensure proper alignment with the bore. The bullet should be seated straight in the case. The crimp is the final step, and it is vital for cast bullets. A properly applied crimp ensures that the bullet is held securely in place and allows for consistent ignition and bullet release.
Conclusion
Review of the Benefits
To truly unlock the accuracy potential of cast bullets in the 45-70, several factors must be optimized. The seating depth of the bullet impacts accuracy. Experimenting with different seating depths can improve groups. The proper amount of free-bore is often a critical variable. Controlling the velocity is another key factor. Accurate loads are typically within a specific velocity range. Powder selection and powder charge weight are vital.
Final Safety Reminders
Finally, testing and troubleshooting. Develop loads in a methodical manner. Start with a low charge weight and gradually increase it while monitoring for accuracy and pressure signs. Carefully record your results, including the powder type, powder charge, bullet weight, seating depth, and group size. Make adjustments as needed and continue testing until you find the load that provides the best accuracy.
Encouragement to Experiment
The art of handloading with cast bullets for the 45-70 is a rewarding pursuit, one that combines precision, patience, and a deep appreciation for the history of this classic cartridge. Reloading opens the door to greater customization and optimization than what can be found with factory-loaded ammunition. If you are willing to take the time to research and follow the process, the 45-70 can deliver great joy.
Final Thoughts and a Brief Summary
The journey of handloading is never truly finished. There is always room for improvement. As you become more proficient, you will naturally develop more confidence in the process.
In conclusion, handloading cast bullets for the 45-70 offers a unique shooting experience. By using this guide and other resources, you will be able to safely and successfully load your own accurate and effective loads. Experiment and find the combination that works best for your firearm and shooting needs. Enjoy the process, and, above all, always prioritize safety.
