45-70 filler dilemma

[TheSinfulSaint]

I will start loading 45–70 very soon. To that end, I have been reading a lot on online forums, articles and also reloading manuals. I think I am all set on standard and hot loads, but when it comes to reduced or mild loads, there is a plethora of opinions if this cartridge must be loaded with a filler or not. For example, with powders like unique and Trailboss.

What are your observations and suggestions on this topic and how do you load for big bore cartridges when it comes to reduced and mild loads? If we need to then which filler is the best and economical?

- Saint

 

[usmcpmi]

FWIW...unless you are using black powder, forget using any type of filler. Follow the load tables and work your load from there. 5744 is a great powder for the 45/70. Depending upon what rifle you have, weather it is an original or a reproduction, the bore dia. and twist rate, and of course, what you expect to use it for...
There are a couple of us that load for it, so there should be plenty of resources for you to work from.

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[hornetguy]

I used to shoot 405gr hollowbase cast in mine with Unique, no fillers, getting 1 1/2" groups at 100 yds. Don't worry about Unique..

 

[TheSinfulSaint]

Thanks for the inputs.

To elaborate, the rifle is Pedersoli 1866 with 26” octagonal barrel. This is a new reproduction.

Projectiles are 300gr and 405gr from missouri bullets. I haven’t ordered yet but these will be mix of lead and hi-tek coated.

My only concern is not to damage the rifle with inappropriate (lite) load.

- Saint

 

[usmcpmi]

If you want some more "interesting reading" do a search for "The Load" using Red Dot. Says 13 gr. for most any cartridge with any bullet weight. Lots of people on the "for" and "against" sides.
I've tried it and it's ok. Nothing to write home about. Unless you have a bunch of Red Dot to burn up.

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