Understanding the .45-70 Cartridge
The classic thump of the .45-70 Government cartridge. It’s a sound, a feeling, and a heritage that resonates with shooters and history buffs alike. From its origins as a workhorse for the U.S. Army to its continued popularity in modern lever-action rifles and single-shot behemoths, the .45-70 has a unique place in the world of firearms. But to experience the true potential of this powerful round, a shooter must pay attention to detail – starting with the brass. Choosing quality brass is paramount for consistent performance and accuracy, and one of the most cost-effective ways to get started is by utilizing .45-70 brass once fired. This article explores the ins and outs of using this brass type, providing a comprehensive guide for reloaders. We will delve into the advantages, the things to look out for, and the best practices for maximizing the performance of your .45-70 ammunition.
The .45-70 Government, often simply called the .45-70, has a rich and storied history. Born in the late 1800s as the primary cartridge for the U.S. Army’s Springfield Model 1873 “Trapdoor” rifle, it was quickly adopted and became the standard-issue ammunition for soldiers. The cartridge’s name reflects its key specifications: a .45-caliber bullet propelled by 70 grains of black powder. The round quickly found its place in the hearts of hunters and target shooters, due to its incredible stopping power and relatively manageable recoil.
The cartridge’s continued popularity can be attributed to several factors. First, its simple design and powerful performance make it perfect for hunting a variety of game animals. The .45-70 is still a very popular caliber for big-game hunting. Secondly, the resurgence of interest in traditional firearms, especially lever-action rifles, has played a role in its continued use. Lastly, the simple construction of the cartridge allows for easy reloading, making it a favorite among those who enjoy crafting their own ammunition.
The brass cases of the .45-70 are a critical part of the equation. They are the containers that hold the primer, the powder, and the bullet. The brass also has to withstand the pressure generated by the firing process and seal the chamber to prevent gas leakage. The quality of the brass directly impacts accuracy, consistency, and the longevity of your reloading components. Consistent brass dimensions, precise case wall thickness, and durable material are all necessary for achieving the best results.
Demystifying “Once Fired” Brass
The term “once fired” brass is relatively self-explanatory, but it’s essential to fully understand its meaning and implications. “Once fired” brass refers to cartridge cases that have been fired one time previously and then collected, cleaned, and typically sorted. It’s brass that has been used in a live firing, extracted from the gun, and then sold as a reloading component. It’s not new, never-been-fired brass, but it is not “multiple fired” brass either.
The primary benefit of using .45-70 brass once fired is the significant cost savings. New brass can be expensive, especially when purchasing in bulk. Once-fired brass, on the other hand, is often available at a much lower price. This can provide a gateway for those looking to save money on the cost of reloading.
Secondly, once-fired brass is often readily available. You might encounter it at local gun shops, through online retailers, or through private sales. This makes it easier to acquire, compared to waiting for the occasional sale on new brass.
Thirdly, once-fired brass, when carefully sourced and prepared, can provide similar levels of performance compared to new brass. The critical factor here is the careful inspection and preparation steps taken by the reloader, which is detailed later in this guide.
However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. The primary concern is the history of the brass. You don’t always know the exact conditions the brass has been subjected to during its first firing. Has it been stored appropriately? Was it fired at excessively high pressures? These variables can affect the lifespan of the case. Also, some wear and tear can occur during the first firing. There can be slight stretching of the brass.
The condition of once-fired brass varies. Some cases will appear pristine, while others might show signs of use, such as minor dents or discoloration. Brass fired in military weapons or firearms with looser chambers might show more wear. It’s vital to inspect each case carefully before using it.
Sourcing the Right .45-70 Brass
Finding reliable sources for .45-70 once fired brass is crucial. The quality of your brass directly influences the quality of your ammunition. Several options are available.
Online retailers often have a wide selection of once-fired brass. Many reputable reloading supply companies offer cases in various quantities, which offers the convenience of online purchasing and shipping.
Gun shows and local shops can be fruitful sources. You can often handle the brass and inspect it before purchasing. It allows you to select the best brass. You can find deals at these places, but the selection can vary.
Private sales on firearms forums and online marketplaces can sometimes be a source. However, it’s vital to do your research and verify the seller’s reputation. Inspect the brass yourself.
When purchasing .45-70 brass once fired, a thorough visual inspection is a must. Look for cases free of major defects:
- **Dents:** Minor dents are often manageable. However, deeper dents, particularly near the case mouth, can be difficult to remove.
- **Dings:** Small imperfections are generally acceptable, but significant dings can affect performance.
- **Cracks:** Cracks, especially near the case mouth or the base, are a sign of case failure. Discard these.
- **Bulges:** Bulges can indicate excessive pressure during the initial firing. Discard these.
- **Case Head Condition:** Inspect the head for any signs of expansion, which can be caused by excessive chamber pressure or a weak case.
- **Manufacturer Reputation:** Choose brass cases from reputable manufacturers. This provides more quality control.
Be wary of purchasing brass with any significant defects or obvious signs of wear and tear. Also, look for brass cases from trusted manufacturers to ensure consistent dimensions and high-quality materials.
Preparing Your .45-70 Once Fired Brass
Preparing your .45-70 once fired brass for reloading involves several critical steps. Thorough preparation ensures consistent performance and extends the lifespan of your cases.
Cleaning is the first step. This removes dirt, debris, and any residue from the initial firing. Two of the most common methods are:
Tumbling
Tumble your brass in a vibratory tumbler with a suitable cleaning media like corn cob or walnut shells. Use a brass polish to remove tarnish and grime.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaners are highly effective in removing fouling and contaminants. Use a specialized brass cleaning solution.
Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the brass. Inspect each case individually for:
- Dents and dings.
- Cracks.
- Bulges.
- Any other imperfections that may compromise the case’s integrity.
Next, size and decap the brass. Full-length sizing is typically recommended for once-fired cases to ensure proper chambering in your firearm. A sizing die will resize the case to the correct dimensions. Ensure the case is decapped by using a depriming tool.
Trimming is crucial for consistent case length. Over time, the brass can stretch, particularly after the first firing. Regular trimming ensures uniform neck tension and bullet seating depth. Use a case trimmer to trim the cases to the correct length, following the manufacturer’s specifications.
Finally, chamfering and deburring the case mouth is necessary. This process removes any sharp edges or burrs created during trimming, ensuring the bullet seats properly and that your cases are ready for reloading.
Reloading Your .45-70 Brass
Once your .45-70 brass once fired cases are prepared, it’s time to reload.
Choose the correct primer for your cartridge. Ensure that the primer type is appropriate for your chosen powder and bullet weight.
Select the correct powder for your needs. .45-70 Government can be reloaded with many powders. Choose a powder that is suitable for the bullet weight you intend to use. Be sure to consult your reloading manual for safe load data.
Select bullets appropriate for the .45-70. The .45-70 can accommodate a wide range of bullet weights and types. Choose a bullet that is suitable for your intended use, such as hunting, target shooting, or cowboy action shooting.
Load the cases following a well-defined procedure. Use a reloading manual to determine safe loads. Always weigh your powder charges accurately. Seat the bullets to the correct depth. Ensure proper neck tension for optimal performance.
Ensuring Longevity and Safety
The lifespan of your .45-70 brass once fired cases depends on several factors, including the load pressure, the quality of the brass, and your reloading practices. High-pressure loads and repeated firings contribute to case wear and the degradation of brass.
A properly managed reloading process can extend case life. Avoid excessive neck tension.
Keep track of how many times you have reloaded each case. Inspect the cases regularly. Signs of case failure include:
- Loose primer pockets.
- Split cases.
- Head separation.
- Bulges.
Replace cases when these signs of failure are observed.
Always prioritize safety. Double-check your powder charges, and consult a reloading manual for load data. Always wear safety glasses when reloading. Never overload your cases, and always ensure you have the right components and the correct loading procedures.
Conclusion
Using .45-70 brass once fired offers reloaders a fantastic way to save money and get great results with the iconic .45-70 cartridge. By understanding the process, from sourcing to preparing, and reloading safely and responsibly, reloaders can maximize the performance and longevity of their brass. By understanding what to look for when acquiring once-fired brass, and carefully going through the inspection and preparation process, you will be able to turn out great ammunition at a reasonable price.
So, embrace the challenge, and start reloading. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition and the thrill of sending those big .45-70 bullets downrange. Responsible reloading is an art form, and the .45-70 provides a great gateway into the reloading world.
