The .45-70 Government cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history spanning over a century, continues to captivate shooters. Its power and accuracy make it a favorite for hunting large game, and its historical significance adds to its allure. This guide delves into the intricacies of reloading .45-70 Government ammunition, catering to both novice reloaders and seasoned veterans.
Understanding the .45-70 Cartridge
Before diving into the reloading process, it's crucial to understand the .45-70's characteristics. This powerful cartridge boasts a substantial case capacity, allowing for a wide range of powder charges and bullet weights. However, this versatility also necessitates careful attention to detail during reloading to ensure safety and optimal performance. The .45-70 is known for its recoil, a factor to consider when selecting components and loads.
Key Considerations for Reloading .45-70:
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Case Preparation: Proper case preparation is paramount. This includes resizing, trimming, and cleaning. Consistent case dimensions are vital for reliable feeding and consistent pressure.
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Powder Selection: The .45-70's large case capacity allows for various powder types and charges. However, choosing the right powder is critical for safety and accuracy. Consult reloading manuals for recommended powders and charges. Always prioritize safety and adhere strictly to the recommended load data.
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Bullet Selection: A wide range of bullet weights and styles are available for the .45-70. Factors to consider include bullet design (round nose, flat point, hollow point), weight, and material (lead, jacketed). The choice of bullet significantly impacts ballistic performance and hunting effectiveness.
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Primer Selection: While less critical than other components, selecting the appropriate primer type is important. Large rifle primers are typically recommended for the .45-70.
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Equipment: Appropriate reloading equipment is essential for safe and accurate reloading. This includes a reloading press, dies, a powder measure, a scale, and calipers.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Reloading .45-70 Government ammunition involves several key steps:
1. Case Preparation:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean spent cases to remove any residue.
- Resizing: Resize cases to ensure uniform dimensions.
- Trimming: Trim cases to the correct length for consistent performance.
- Deburring: Remove any sharp edges to prevent damage to the reloading equipment.
- Priming: Prime cases with appropriate large rifle primers.
2. Powder Charging:
- Weighing: Carefully weigh each powder charge using a precise scale. Consistency is critical for safety and accuracy.
- Charging: Add the measured powder charge to each prepared case.
3. Bullet Seating:
- Seating: Seat bullets to the correct depth, ensuring sufficient crimp to hold the bullet securely.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth to securely hold the bullet in place.
4. Final Inspection:
- Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect each round for any defects or inconsistencies. Discard any rounds that don't meet your standards.
- Weight Check: Consider weighing the completed rounds to ensure consistency in weight.
Safety Precautions:
- Always consult reloading manuals: Never deviate from the recommended load data.
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Eye protection is essential, and hearing protection is recommended.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Powder fumes can be hazardous.
- Never overload cartridges: Overloading can lead to catastrophic failure.
- Store ammunition safely: Store ammunition in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
Advanced Reloading Techniques for .45-70:
Experienced reloaders can explore advanced techniques like experimenting with different powder types and charges to optimize performance for specific applications. This requires a deep understanding of ballistics and a meticulous approach to load development.
This comprehensive guide serves as a starting point for your .45-70 reloading journey. Remember, safety is paramount. Always refer to the instructions provided by your reloading equipment manufacturer and consult reputable reloading manuals before starting your reloading process. Safe and accurate reloading ensures you can enjoy this classic cartridge for years to come.
