A Timeless Cartridge, A Modern Pursuit
The 45-70 Government. The name alone conjures images of the American West, of buffalo hunts and legendary battles. Born from the black powder era, this venerable cartridge continues to command respect among shooters and hunters alike. Its legacy is one of power, reliability, and enduring versatility. Today, the 45-70 Government retains its place as a formidable force in both hunting and target shooting circles, thanks to a unique blend of historical significance and modern performance. While factory ammunition is readily available, the true key to unlocking the full potential of this classic round lies in the art and science of reloading. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of reloading the 45-70 Government, providing the knowledge and insights you need to craft safe, accurate, and effective ammunition.
Safety First, Above All Else
Reloading is a rewarding hobby, but it demands an unwavering commitment to safety. The process involves handling potentially explosive materials and precise operations. Failure to adhere to safe practices can lead to serious injury or damage to equipment. Therefore, before you even consider starting to reload 45-70 Government cartridges, it’s paramount to familiarize yourself with the core principles of safe reloading.
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Safety glasses are non-negotiable. They protect your eyes from flying debris, primer fragments, and other hazards. Gloves are also recommended, especially when handling corrosive cleaning solutions or sharp case edges. Consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt and appropriate work attire to protect your skin.
The reloading environment itself is critical. Choose a well-lit and organized workspace, preferably a dedicated area free from distractions. Keep the reloading area clean and uncluttered. This reduces the risk of accidental spills and contamination. Ensure good ventilation, especially when working with solvents and cleaning agents.
Perhaps the most crucial safety rule is to always follow established load data. Never rely on guesswork or unverified information. Use only published load data from reputable sources such as reloading manuals from major manufacturers (Lyman, Hornady, etc.) or reputable online resources. Always double-check your measurements and confirm that the load data is specific to the components you are using.
Never attempt to reload without proper training and a thorough understanding of the reloading process. Start with the basics and gradually build your knowledge. If you’re unsure about any step, seek guidance from an experienced reloader or consult a qualified instructor.
Essential Equipment and Components – The Building Blocks of a Quality Load
Reloading the 45-70 Government, like any reloading process, requires a collection of specialized tools and components. Having the right equipment is fundamental to creating safe, accurate, and reliable ammunition. Investing in quality equipment will not only enhance your reloading experience but also contribute to the longevity of your tools.
The heart of the reloading setup is the reloading press. There are several types available, each with its advantages. Single-stage presses are a good starting point, offering precise control over each reloading step. Turret presses allow you to quickly switch between different dies, increasing efficiency. Progressive presses automate several steps, making them suitable for high-volume reloading, however they have a steeper learning curve.
A set of reloading dies is also essential. Dies are used to resize the cases, seat the bullets, and crimp the finished rounds. A typical 45-70 Government die set includes:
Full-length resizing die
This die resizes the entire case to ensure it chambers smoothly in your rifle.
Neck sizing die
Some reloaders prefer this method, which only sizes the neck of the case. This can extend case life but is generally not recommended for rifles with different chambers or that may be used in various guns.
Seating die
Used to seat the bullet to the desired depth in the case.
Crimp die
Often combined with the seating die, this die applies a crimp to the case mouth, which helps secure the bullet and promote consistent ignition.
Accuracy in measurement is critical. A powder scale is used to accurately measure powder charges. Digital scales are popular for their ease of use and precision, while beam scales are a reliable and time-tested option. A powder measure helps dispense consistent powder charges. Calipers are also a must-have for precisely measuring the overall length of the loaded cartridge, case length, and other critical dimensions.
Case preparation tools are used to prepare the brass for loading. A case trimmer ensures that cases are trimmed to the correct length. A chamfering and deburring tool removes burrs and sharp edges from the case mouth. A primer pocket cleaner ensures the primer pocket is clean and ready to accept the new primer.
Finally, a priming tool is used to seat the primers. This can be a handheld tool, a priming system integrated into your reloading press, or a bench-mounted priming tool.
When it comes to components, quality is important. Select the correct brass, primers, powder, and bullets for your reloading needs.
Brass cases should be inspected for damage and imperfections before reloading. 45-70 Government cases are readily available from various manufacturers. Trimming is essential to keep case lengths consistent.
Primers come in various types, each designed to ignite the powder. The standard large rifle primer is appropriate for the 45-70. Always select the correct primer type based on the load data you’re following.
Powder selection is crucial for achieving the desired performance. The 45-70 Government has many options from fast-burning powders suitable for light loads, to slower-burning powders better suited for heavy bullets and magnum performance. Always use the appropriate powder for the chosen load data and the bullet you are using.
Projectiles are the final piece of the puzzle. Select bullets that match your intended use. Heavy bullets are usually preferred for hunting larger game. Lighter bullets are better suited to target shooting. Bullet weights vary depending on the manufacturer.
Step-by-Step – The Reloading Dance
The reloading process is a sequence of meticulously followed steps. Each step, when performed correctly, contributes to a safe and accurate finished product.
Begin with case preparation. Cleaning your cases is the first step in preparing your brass. Ultrasonic cleaners and tumblers are popular options. Resizing the cases is next, using a full-length or neck sizing die depending on your preference. Depriming removes the spent primer. Then trim the cases to the correct length according to published specifications for your chosen brass. Chamfer and deburr the case mouth, smoothing out any sharp edges, which makes seating bullets easier. Clean the primer pockets.
With cases prepped, priming can begin. Carefully select the appropriate primer type and then seat the primer to the correct depth in the primer pocket using the priming tool.
Next, the powder charge. Use the powder scale to measure the precise amount of powder specified in your load data. Carefully pour the powder charge into the case, ensuring that the powder level is consistent from one round to the next.
With the case charged, it’s time to seat the bullet. Use the seating die to seat the bullet to the recommended depth. The seating depth is critical for accuracy and safety. The seating depth is dictated by your load data.
Crimping is often the final step. Crimping the case mouth helps to secure the bullet and ensure consistent ignition.
After each step, examine the ammunition you have loaded. Visually inspect each finished round for any defects. Weigh each loaded round to ensure the powder charge is consistent. Measure the overall cartridge length (OAL) with calipers to ensure it meets the specified dimensions.
Finding Your Sweet Spot – Load Development and Data
Load development is the process of finding the most accurate and consistent load for your specific rifle. This requires careful experimentation and record-keeping.
Begin by consulting reputable load data. Always consult several reliable sources, such as reloading manuals, to find starting loads for your chosen components. Load data is typically published with specific bullet types and powders.
When working up a new load, start below the maximum load listed in the manual. Increase the powder charge gradually, in small increments, while carefully monitoring for pressure signs. Keep detailed records of your loads, shooting conditions, and the results you obtain. Include notes on groupings, recoil, and any other observations.
Watch for pressure signs. These are indications that the load is too high. Flattened primers, difficult bolt lift, and case head expansion are all indicators of excessive pressure. If you see any of these signs, immediately discontinue loading that particular load and reduce the powder charge.
Addressing Common Issues
Even with careful attention to detail, reloading can present challenges. Recognizing and addressing these common issues is an important part of the reloading process.
Failure to feed or extract can be caused by a variety of factors, including incorrect overall cartridge length, insufficient case resizing, or damaged brass. Adjusting the crimp or seating depth or examining and correcting the case may fix the issue.
Poor accuracy can be frustrating. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper load development, inconsistent powder charges, or a rifle issue. Work up loads and try different powders to find the most accurate load for your rifle.
Cases sticking in the die can be the result of insufficient case lubrication or a damaged die. Ensure cases are properly lubricated.
Overpressure signs, as mentioned earlier, can indicate an unsafe load. Back down on your powder charges and re-evaluate your process.
Bullet setback is a dangerous condition where the bullet is pushed back into the case upon chambering. This can increase chamber pressure and lead to an explosion. Ensure your crimp and seating depths are appropriate.
Black Powder vs. Smokeless: The Powder’s Past and Present
While the 45-70 Government has a long and storied history with black powder, modern smokeless powders have largely replaced black powder in modern applications. Black powder is made from charcoal, sulfur, and potassium nitrate. The chemical reaction of black powder produces a large volume of smoke, and low chamber pressures. Reloading using black powder presents different challenges than smokeless powder. It requires more thorough case cleaning.
Smokeless powders provide more modern performance benefits. With a wider range of burning rates and lower pressures compared to black powder, smokeless powders allow for more versatility and higher velocities.
Final Thoughts: Honoring a Legacy, Embracing a Craft
Reloading the 45-70 Government is more than just a method of producing ammunition; it’s an immersion in history, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a direct engagement with the capabilities of your rifle. The process allows you to create ammunition tailored to your precise needs, maximizing the potential of this classic cartridge.
By mastering the intricacies of reloading, you are not just building a bullet; you’re crafting an experience. You’re gaining a deeper appreciation for the heritage of the 45-70 and the art of precise shooting. It’s a skill that will continue to reward you with reliable ammunition, enhanced accuracy, and a connection to the rich traditions of American shooting.
Remember always to prioritize safety. Adhere to the rules and learn from experienced reloaders. Keep detailed records, and never compromise on quality.
Resources
For further information and resources, consult the following:
Reloading Manuals:
- Lyman Reloading Handbook.
- Hornady Reloading Handbook.
- Sierra Bullets Reloading Manual.
Online Resources:
- The Ammunition Store (TAS) Reloading Data
- Reloading Forums, such as those hosted by [Insert Reputable Forum Example Here].
Reloading the 45-70 Government is a rewarding endeavor. With the knowledge and commitment, you too can keep this legendary cartridge firing for years to come. Happy reloading, and safe shooting!
