The venerable .45-70 Government cartridge enjoys a rich history, from its service in the American Civil War to its enduring popularity among modern hunters and shooters. Reloading your own .45-70 ammunition offers significant cost savings and the ability to tailor loads to your specific needs. But finding the right brass is the crucial first step. This guide dives deep into sourcing, preparing, and utilizing .45-70 brass for reloading.
Sourcing .45-70 Brass for Reloading
Finding quality .45-70 brass can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. Several avenues exist, each with its own pros and cons:
1. New Brass: The Premium Choice
Buying new .45-70 brass is the most expensive option but offers several advantages:
- Uniformity: New brass is consistent in size and weight, simplifying the reloading process.
- Longevity: High-quality new brass can withstand many reloading cycles before showing significant wear.
- Availability: While sometimes scarce depending on demand, reputable ammunition manufacturers regularly produce new brass.
- Cost: The higher initial cost is offset by the longer lifespan and potential for many reloads.
Popular brands of new .45-70 brass include Starline and Hornady. Researching reviews and comparing prices is crucial before purchasing.
2. Once-Fired Brass: The Budget-Friendly Option
Once-fired brass represents a significant cost savings. However, it requires more attention to detail during preparation:
- Source: Shooting ranges, gun shows, and online forums are common sources. Carefully inspect brass for damage before purchase.
- Cleaning: Once-fired brass frequently requires more thorough cleaning to remove residual powder and primer residue.
- Uniformity: Expect some variations in weight and dimensions, which may need addressing during sizing.
- Potential Damage: Be vigilant for dents, cracks, or crimped cases, which can compromise safety and accuracy.
3. Range Brass: The Free (But Labor-Intensive) Option
Collecting range brass is free, but it demands significant time and effort:
- Condition: Range brass is often in less-than-ideal condition, requiring considerable cleaning and processing.
- Sorting: Separating .45-70 brass from other calibers requires patience.
- Safety: Check for bulging or damaged cases before handling; discarding potentially dangerous pieces is critical.
- Contamination: Range brass might be exposed to dirt, debris, or other contaminants, demanding meticulous cleaning.
Table 1: Brass Sourcing Comparison
| Source | Cost | Uniformity | Condition | Time Investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Brass | High | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| Once-Fired Brass | Moderate | Good | Fair | Moderate |
| Range Brass | Low/Free | Poor | Poor | High |
Preparing .45-70 Brass for Reloading
Regardless of your brass source, proper preparation is essential for safe and accurate reloading:
1. Cleaning
Thoroughly clean the brass to remove all residue. A dedicated brass cleaning system (e.g., tumbler with media) or manual cleaning with brushes and solvents is necessary.
2. Inspection
Carefully inspect each case for any damage, including dents, cracks, or bulges. Discard damaged cases immediately.
3. Sizing
Proper sizing is vital to ensure consistent chambering and safe operation. A .45-70 sizing die will resize the cases to the correct dimensions.
4. Trimming
Over time, cases can become slightly longer. Trimming to a uniform length using a case trimmer ensures accurate and safe reloading.
5. Deburring
After trimming, use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges from the case mouth.
Reloading .45-70 Ammunition: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section provides a basic overview of the reloading process. Always consult your reloading manual for specific instructions and load data for your chosen components.
- Sizing: Resize the cases to the correct dimensions.
- Deburring: Remove any sharp edges.
- Primer Seating: Install primers.
- Powder Charging: Add the correct amount of powder using a scale. Accuracy is paramount here.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the bullets to the proper depth.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth to secure the bullet.
Important Note: Never exceed the maximum recommended load data found in your reloading manual. Using excessive powder can lead to dangerous pressure increases and potential firearm damage.
Case Studies: Real-World Examples
While we can't share specific loading data without a significant risk of misunderstanding and potential harm, I can highlight the importance of meticulous record-keeping. Document every reloading session:
- Brass Source: Indicate whether the brass is new, once-fired, or range brass.
- Components: Record the brand and type of primers, powder, and bullets used.
- Load Data: Meticulously record the powder charge weight, OAL, and any other relevant data.
By carefully recording your data, you can track the performance of your reloads over time and identify any issues before they escalate.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your .45-70 Reloading Experience
Finding and preparing .45-70 brass for reloading is an investment in both cost savings and accuracy. By carefully sourcing your brass, meticulously preparing it, and following safe reloading practices, you can enjoy the many rewards of crafting your own .45-70 ammunition. Remember, safety is paramount; always consult your reloading manual and prioritize accurate load data. Happy reloading!