The 45-70 Government cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history, continues to be a popular choice for hunters and shooters alike. Its versatility extends to the use of cast bullets, offering a cost-effective and accurate option for both target shooting and hunting. However, successfully reloading 45-70 cast bullets requires attention to detail and a solid understanding of the process. This guide will walk you through the key considerations and steps involved.
Choosing the Right Cast Bullets
Selecting the appropriate cast bullet is paramount. Several factors influence your choice:
Diameter:
- The bullet diameter should be slightly larger than the groove diameter of your barrel. This ensures proper engagement with the rifling, leading to improved accuracy and preventing leading. Accurate measurement of your barrel's groove diameter is crucial. You can use a bore gauge to determine this accurately.
- Common diameters for 45-70 cast bullets include .458" and .459". Consult your barrel's specifications or manufacturer's recommendations for the ideal diameter.
Weight:
- Bullet weight significantly impacts recoil, velocity, and trajectory. Heavier bullets generally have lower velocities but deliver more energy at longer ranges. Lighter bullets offer less recoil but may lose velocity quicker.
- Popular weights range from 300 grains to 500 grains, each with its own performance characteristics. Experimentation will help you determine the best weight for your specific application.
Alloy:
- The alloy composition affects bullet hardness, which is critical for preventing leading in your barrel. Harder alloys are less prone to leading, especially at higher velocities.
- Common alloys include pure lead, lead-tin alloys, and lead-tin-antimony alloys. The addition of tin and antimony increases hardness. A good starting point is a lead-tin-antimony alloy with around 2-3% tin and 2-3% antimony.
Lubrication:
- Proper lubrication is essential to prevent leading and ensure smooth operation. Cast bullets often require a lubricant that can withstand the higher pressures and temperatures generated by the 45-70 cartridge. Several commercially available lubricants are suitable for this purpose, and you may need to experiment to find the best option for your specific alloy and load.
Reloading Equipment and Components
Before you begin, gather the necessary reloading equipment:
- Reloading press: A single-stage or progressive press can be used.
- Dies: A full set of 45-70 dies (sizing die, powder measure, bullet seating die, and crimping die) is necessary.
- Powder measure: Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safety and consistent performance.
- Scale: A digital scale is recommended for precise powder weighing.
- Case trimmer: Trimming cases to the correct length is vital to ensure proper headspace.
- Primer seating tool: For safely and consistently seating primers.
- Bullet lubricant: Choose a lubricant appropriate for your cast bullets.
- 45-70 cases: Clean and inspected cases are essential for safe and reliable reloading.
- Powder: Suitable powder for cast bullets in 45-70 (consult reloading manuals for recommendations).
- Primers: Large rifle primers are required.
Reloading Steps: A Detailed Procedure
- Case Preparation: Clean and inspect cases for damage. Resize, trim, and deprime as needed.
- Lubricating Bullets: Apply a suitable lubricant to your cast bullets.
- Powder Charging: Carefully weigh and charge each case with the appropriate powder charge. Consult a reputable reloading manual for load data specific to your bullet weight, powder type, and firearm. Never exceed maximum recommended loads.
- Primer Seating: Seat the primers firmly and consistently.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the bullets to the correct depth.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth securely to hold the bullet in place.
- Inspection: Carefully inspect each completed round for any defects or inconsistencies before loading into your firearm.
Safety Precautions: Always Prioritize Safety
- Consult Reloading Manuals: Always refer to a reputable reloading manual for load data specific to your components and firearm. Failure to do so can lead to dangerous over-pressure conditions.
- Start Low, Work Up: When working with a new load, start with a minimum charge and gradually increase the charge, carefully observing the results.
- Proper Technique: Ensure you follow proper reloading techniques to avoid damaging your equipment or injuring yourself.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
- Eye and Hearing Protection: Always wear appropriate eye and hearing protection while reloading.
Reloading 45-70 cast bullets can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings and the ability to tailor ammunition to your specific needs. However, safety should always be your top priority. By carefully following this guide and consulting authoritative reloading manuals, you can safely and effectively reload your own 45-70 cast bullet ammunition. Remember that reloading is a skill that requires practice and attention to detail. Start slowly, and always prioritize safety above all else.
