The .45-70 Government cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history, continues to be a favorite among hunters and shooters. Its power and accuracy, particularly when loaded with cast bullets, make it a compelling choice. This guide delves into the specifics of reloading .45-70 cast bullets, covering everything from selecting the right components to achieving optimal accuracy. Understanding the nuances of reloading this cartridge will significantly enhance your shooting experience.
Selecting Your Cast Bullets
Choosing the right cast bullet is the foundation of successful .45-70 reloading. Several factors influence this decision:
Bullet Weight: Finding the Sweet Spot
Bullet weight is a significant consideration, affecting recoil, trajectory, and penetration. Popular weights range from 300 grains to 500 grains and beyond. Heavier bullets generally offer greater penetration, but also increase recoil. Lighter bullets are easier to shoot, especially for extended sessions, but may sacrifice some penetration.
- 300-350 grains: Ideal for shorter ranges and plinking. Lower recoil makes them great for practice.
- 400-450 grains: A versatile option suitable for various hunting applications. Offers a good balance of recoil and penetration.
- 500+ grains: Best for heavier game and longer ranges. Expect significant recoil.
Bullet Hardness: A Crucial Factor
The hardness of your cast bullet directly impacts its performance and the longevity of your barrel. Hardness is measured by Brinell Hardness Number (BHN). Too soft a bullet can lead to leading (bullet metal depositing in the barrel), while too hard a bullet can damage the rifling.
- BHN 10-12: Suitable for black powder and lower-velocity loads.
- BHN 12-16: A good all-around hardness for many .45-70 applications.
- BHN 18-20: Best for higher-velocity loads and those seeking maximum penetration. Use with caution, as this hardness can increase wear on your barrel.
Bullet Design: Lubrication and Accuracy
Bullet design significantly impacts accuracy and feeding reliability. Consider the following:
- Round nose: Simple, affordable, and accurate at shorter ranges.
- Flat nose: Better ballistics than round nose bullets; often preferred for hunting.
- Gas check: These feature a cup at the base of the bullet, preventing gas blow-back, and improving accuracy and reducing leading, particularly crucial for higher-velocity loads.
Case Study: Comparing Bullet Performance
A comparison of three different cast bullets fired from the same rifle reveals the impact of weight and hardness.
| Bullet Weight | Bullet Hardness (BHN) | Accuracy (at 100 yards) | Recoil |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300 grains | 12 | 3 MOA | Low |
| 405 grains | 16 | 2 MOA | Moderate |
| 500 grains | 18 | 1.5 MOA | High |
Note: MOA (Minute of Angle) is a unit of angular measurement often used to express the accuracy of firearms. Lower MOA values indicate greater accuracy.
Reloading Components and Equipment
Beyond the bullets themselves, you'll need other crucial components and equipment:
- .45-70 Brass: Choose high-quality brass for longevity and consistent performance.
- Powder: Many powders work well with .45-70 cast bullets, but IMR 4198, IMR 3031, and Unique are popular choices. Always consult your reloading manual for safe powder charges.
- Primers: Large rifle primers are required.
- Bullet Lubricant: Choose a lubricant suitable for your chosen bullet hardness and velocity. Lee Liquid Alox and other commercially available lubes are good options.
- Reloading Press: A single-stage press is sufficient for beginning reloaders, while progressive presses improve speed for large batches.
- Dies: A set of .45-70 dies includes a sizing die, a powder measure, and a bullet seating die.
- Scale: A precision powder scale is essential for ensuring accurate powder charges.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The reloading process involves several precise steps; meticulously follow your reloading manual's instructions.
- Case Preparation: Resize, clean, and deprime spent .45-70 brass cases.
- Powder Charging: Carefully weigh and dispense the appropriate powder charge for your chosen bullet and load data.
- Primer Seating: Seat the large rifle primer firmly.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the cast bullet to the specified depth, ensuring proper bullet alignment.
- Crimp: Apply a light crimp to secure the bullet in place.
Critical Note: Always follow the load data found in a reputable reloading manual for your specific components and equipment. Incorrect loads can result in dangerous pressure levels and damage to your firearm.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While reloading is rewarding, challenges can arise.
- Leading: Excessive leading (bullet metal in the barrel) often results from soft bullets or inadequate lubrication. Increase bullet hardness or use a more effective lubricant.
- Accuracy Problems: Inaccurate loads can stem from inconsistent powder charges, improperly seated bullets, or poor-quality components.
- High Pressure Signs: Flattened primers, excessive recoil, or unusual sounds indicate dangerous pressure levels. Immediately stop reloading and reassess your load data.
Conclusion: Mastering .45-70 Cast Bullet Reloading
Reloading .45-70 cast bullets offers significant cost savings and allows for precise customization of your ammunition. By selecting the right components, meticulously following safe reloading practices, and troubleshooting effectively, you can create powerful, accurate, and affordable loads for your favorite .45-70 firearm. Remember, safety is paramount – always consult a reputable reloading manual and prioritize careful attention to detail throughout the entire process.