45-70 cast bullet load data???

[bigdog270]

iam getting ready to reload for my contender 45-70 and i have tons of questions/concerns.what type of load data do i use,the data in my reloading manuals list load data for trapdoor,leverguns and ruger 1.what do i use.#2are cast bullets 300 gr ok for hunting deer and boar or do i need a different bullet type?what type of accuracy can i expect,my bbl is 14 inch with muzzelbrake.i would like to use RE7 powder.any info would be greatly appreciated. :?  :?  :?

[jhalcott]

bigdog, the 45-70is a real hammer on deer and hogs,it also kicks HARD!
That said ,Yes you can use 300 gr bullets in it .Heavier bullets will generate more recoil and drop more also.In my gun(15" ported) I use 420 gr cast pointed bullets(NEI mold)because I have them. I have used 300 to 525 grain cast bullets and 300-350 jacketed ones.The only bullet I ever recovered was one I shot an old cow with.She was hit in the right shoulder and the bullet was found in the left hip. Range was only 50 yards the bullet was a 420 cast with a hefty charge ot 4227 powder.
 Accuracy with YOUR gun and load May be different than mine! I was getting under 2" with certain loads AND a 4x scope and sand bags@ 100 yards. I never tried RE7 but it is considered to be a good powder for the 45-70.Start low and work up.YOUR safety is important! I HAD GREAT LUCK WITH H322 POWDER.  Jh

[Hopalong7]

Rel7 is my powder of choice in most of my 45-70 loads. H322 has been good too, but Rel7 has been best in my two barrels. I would recomend starting with 300gr'ers and trapdoor powder data and work up SLOWLY.
You can load 300gr cast bullets and shoot ANYTHING you want .  That Super 14 ported barrel will draw lots of attention at the range.  Get GOOD ear protection and have fun!!  My 45-70 has been my most fun barrel for many years(displaced only for the time being by .17HMR)
GOOD SHOOTIN',  Walt          

[EOD3]

Have a look over here: http://www.hodgdon.com/data/cowboy/lrrd.php

EOD3