Reloading for 45-70 Govt

powerspc

It Sounded Like a Good Idea at the Time
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  • Mar 15, 2018
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    In perusing the Hornady 10th Edition would anyone happen to know which section I should be referencing (Trap Door, Marlin 1885, Ruger #1) for a new (modern) Winchester 1886? I am assuming "Trap Door" but not sure why I am assuming that. Thanks!
     
    The Trapdoor is the oldest and weakest of the actions mentioned. I would guess the falling block Ruger #1 to be the strongest. Both lever actions are of similar designs and should handle about the same pressure.
     
    Marlin data is where you want to be. Using trapdoor data won't hurt anything. Fact is, depending on the buttplate on your '86 and your tolerance for punishment, you may decide trapdoor data is plenty.

    Trapdoor data isn't necessarily weak. 48.5 grains of 3031 under a 405grn cast bullet is listed under Hogdon Trapdoor data. Pull the tigger on a few of those and "mild" won't be the word you're using. Factory Rem and Winchester ammo is much like their .45 Colt and .44 Special ammo, it is well below the cartridges' potential, even at the "lowest" level of handload data.

    I don't shoot #1 data and I OWN a #1. I don't think it's too hot, just that I'm not that into pain. I'm currently running 50 grains of 3031 under a Remington 405JSP. It's about all I want and well past what I need.

    FWIW, Ruger #1 data runs around 50,000 CUP, Lever Gun data is usually under 35-40K or so, Trapdoor data will be somewhere under 28k.
     
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    Thank you all for the replies; I did finally hear back from Hornady as well and you fine people were, of course, correct! Marlin 1885 it is! Now, if I can just find some IMR4198...;)