Why Choose to Reload .45-70 Govt?
The .45-70 Govt is a unique and powerful cartridge, and reloading it opens up a multitude of possibilities. Factory-loaded ammunition, while readily available, is sometimes limited in its variety and can be expensive. Reloading allows you to transcend these limitations and fully embrace the potential of this classic cartridge.
One of the most significant advantages of reloading .45-70 Govt is the potential for significant cost savings. Ammunition costs can quickly add up, particularly when shooting a cartridge with a reputation for being powerful. By reusing brass casings, controlling the powder charge, and selecting components strategically, reloaders can significantly reduce the overall cost per round. Over time, these savings can be substantial, allowing you to shoot more frequently and enjoy the sport without breaking the bank.
Beyond cost savings, the ability to customize your ammunition is another compelling reason to dive into reloading .45-70 Govt. Factory ammunition typically offers a limited range of bullet weights and powder choices. With handloading, you have complete control. You can experiment with various bullet weights, powder types, and primer combinations to optimize your loads for different shooting applications. Are you hunting large game? You can craft loads with heavy bullets for maximum penetration. Are you focusing on target practice? You can develop lighter, more accurate loads for precise shooting. This level of customization allows you to tailor your ammunition to the specific needs of your firearm and your shooting style, leading to improved accuracy and performance.
The issue of ammunition availability is another factor to consider. In times of supply chain disruptions or heightened demand, finding factory-loaded .45-70 Govt cartridges can be challenging. By reloading, you become independent of the market. You can continue to shoot your favorite rifle, regardless of external factors, provided you have the necessary components on hand. This self-sufficiency ensures you can enjoy your passion for shooting without interruption.
Finally, reloading, when done carefully and thoughtfully, can potentially unlock increased accuracy. By taking the time to meticulously measure powder charges, select high-quality components, and seat bullets precisely, you can often produce ammunition that shoots more accurately than factory-loaded rounds. This is because you are taking the time to tailor the load to your specific rifle and your own shooting style. The consistency that comes from careful reloading practices can lead to tighter shot groups and improved overall performance.
Prioritizing Safety: The Foundation of Reloading
Before embarking on the journey of reloading .45-70 Govt, safety must be the paramount concern. Reloading involves working with potentially dangerous materials and processes. Neglecting safety protocols can lead to serious injury or damage to your firearm. Therefore, a commitment to safety is non-negotiable.
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from stray particles, propellant, and potential explosions. Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes from primers and powders. Never smoke while reloading. Ensure your reloading area is free from distractions and clutter. Read and understand the instructions in your reloading manual before beginning.
Thoroughly inspect all components, including brass casings, primers, bullets, and powders, before use. Discard any damaged components. Handle powders and primers with care, and store them in a secure location away from heat, moisture, and potential ignition sources. Label all your reloads clearly with the specifics of the load including the powder type, bullet weight, primer used and overall cartridge length.
Essential Equipment for Reloading .45-70 Govt
To successfully reload .45-70 Govt ammunition, you’ll need a selection of specialized equipment. Each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in the reloading process.
First and foremost, you will need a reloading press. The press provides the mechanical advantage needed to resize cases, seat bullets, and perform other essential operations. There are various types of presses, including single-stage presses, turret presses, and progressive presses. Single-stage presses are generally recommended for beginners.
Next, you’ll need a set of reloading dies specifically designed for the .45-70 Govt. These dies are used for resizing, de-capping, and seating bullets. The dies will often include a crimping die.
A digital or beam scale is crucial for accurately measuring powder charges. Precise powder measurement is essential for safe and effective reloading.
A powder measure is used to dispense the powder in a consistent manner. Look for a measure that is adjustable and easy to use.
You will also need a case trimmer. This tool ensures that your cases are trimmed to the correct length, which is crucial for consistent bullet seating and overall cartridge performance.
A primer pocket tool is used to clean and uniform the primer pockets of your cases, ensuring proper primer seating.
Case prep tools, such as chamfering and deburring tools, are used to prepare the case mouth for bullet seating. These tools remove any burrs and rough edges that could interfere with bullet seating.
A reputable reloading manual is absolutely essential. It will provide you with detailed instructions, load data, and safety guidelines for reloading various cartridges, including the .45-70 Govt.
Calipers are used to measure the overall cartridge length and other dimensions, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
A funnel is used to pour powder into the case.
Finally, a loading block is used to hold the cases securely during the reloading process.
The Step-by-Step Reloading Process
Now, let’s delve into the detailed process of reloading .45-70 Govt. Remember to adhere strictly to the safety guidelines and instructions outlined in your reloading manual.
Begin with case preparation. Start by inspecting the brass casings for any signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or excessive wear. Discard any damaged cases. Next, clean the cases. This can be done with a tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner. Clean cases promote accurate reloading.
Following cleaning, the cases must be sized and de-capped. This involves running the case through the sizing die, which restores it to the correct dimensions and removes the spent primer.
The primer pockets need to be cleaned. Using a specialized tool or reamer, remove any residue or obstructions from the primer pocket to ensure the new primer seats properly.
Next, trim the cases to the correct length. This is crucial for consistent bullet seating and overall cartridge performance. Measure the length of your case and trim it according to the specifications in your reloading manual.
Chamfer and deburr the case mouth. This helps to smooth the case mouth, preventing damage to the bullet during seating.
After case preparation, it’s time to prime the cases. This involves inserting a new primer into the primer pocket. The primer should seat flush with the bottom of the primer pocket.
Now comes the critical step of powder charging. Select your powder based on your intended use. Consult your reloading manual for recommended powder types and load data for your chosen bullet weight. Use your scale and powder measure to accurately weigh the powder charge. Carefully pour the measured powder into the case.
Next, seat the bullet. Select your chosen bullet weight and style. Use the seating die to seat the bullet to the correct overall cartridge length (OAL). The OAL is a critical dimension that affects both accuracy and safety. Consult your reloading manual for the correct OAL for your chosen bullet.
Finally, apply the crimp. A light crimp can improve accuracy and ensure consistent bullet pull. Apply the appropriate crimp according to the instructions in your reloading manual.
Before considering the rounds complete, conduct a thorough inspection. Visually inspect each loaded round for any signs of defects. Use your calipers to measure the OAL of each round, ensuring it falls within the specified range. Double-check your powder charges.
Practical Advice and Important Considerations
Here are some important considerations for reloading .45-70 Govt to help you achieve the best results.
Always start with the minimum powder charge specified in your reloading manual. Then, you can gradually increase the charge, in small increments. Never exceed the maximum load specified. As you increase the charge, watch closely for signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers, sticky extraction, or ejector marks on the case head.
Powder and bullet combinations are another important factor. Research different combinations of bullets and powders to find loads that perform well in your rifle. Use a reloading manual as a starting point.
Keep a meticulous record of your loads. Track the powder charge, bullet weight, primer type, case used, and overall cartridge length. Record the results of your shooting sessions, including accuracy, velocity, and any observed signs of pressure. This data will be invaluable for refining your loads and troubleshooting any problems that arise.
Store your loaded ammunition properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Label your ammunition clearly with the specifics of the load.
Troubleshooting Common Reloading Challenges
Even with careful attention, you may encounter some problems when reloading .45-70 Govt. Knowing how to address common issues can help ensure a safe and satisfying reloading experience.
Failure to feed can be caused by several factors, including incorrect overall cartridge length, a rough case mouth, or a damaged bullet. Ensure your rounds are within the specified OAL range, chamfer and deburr the case mouth, and inspect the bullet for any damage.
Inconsistent accuracy can stem from a number of sources, including inconsistent powder charges, variations in case length, or incorrect bullet seating depth. Ensure that your powder charges are accurate, your cases are trimmed to the same length, and your bullets are seated to the correct depth.
Primer issues, such as failure to fire, can be caused by a variety of issues, including improper primer seating or a weak firing pin. If your rounds fail to fire, check that the primers are seated flush with the bottom of the primer pocket.
Sometimes, despite careful work, a problem may present that is difficult to diagnose. If you encounter persistent reloading issues that you cannot resolve, it is always best to consult with a more experienced reloader, a gunsmith, or, potentially, the manufacturer of the components you are using. They can provide expert advice and guidance.
Conclusion: Embracing the Art of .45-70 Govt Reloading
Reloading is more than just a way to create ammunition; it’s a gateway to a deeper appreciation for the .45-70 Govt and the art of shooting. By mastering the process of reloading .45-70 Govt, you gain control over your ammunition, opening up a world of possibilities. You will learn to customize your loads for different purposes, save money, and troubleshoot problems.
The .45-70 Govt is a cartridge with a rich history and enduring appeal. With the knowledge and skills gained from reloading, you can participate in that legacy. Reloading allows you to tailor your loads, making each shot a testament to your expertise.
Remember, safety is always the priority. Meticulous record-keeping is essential. Practice with care, and embrace the process. By taking the time to carefully prepare, load, and inspect your ammunition, you will gain a deep appreciation for the .45-70 Govt and enhance your shooting experience. Happy reloading, and enjoy the powerful legacy of the .45-70 Govt!
