how to start simple?

[bajabill]

I am considering a new endeavor for an H&R Buffalo Classic 45-70

First off would be reaming to 45-90 (2.4").  I have always wanted to do this but cant make the justification while limiting myself to smokeless. 45-70 is quite enough with that fuel.  Does anyone use their 45-90 for BP and still shoot smokeless 45-70 with it also?


Then, for the black powder aspect.  I would like to keep it easy.  I dont want to start molding bullets.

Can I use pyrodex or 777, jacketed bullets, and not need to lube?  This would let me use the same components I already have for smokeless loading and muzzleloading.  I also think it would simplify barrel maintenance (unless bullet lube helps with this).

[longcaribiner]

jacketed bullets and any powder that leaves residue is generally not a good idea.  Nothing wrong withh the Buffalo Classic, although it probably does best with hard lead bullets  like 10:1.     you can buy cast lead bullets.  Pyrodex is more corrosive than Black powder.  So avoid it in favor of holy  black or trip 7.  Black powder should be compressed in the case slightly.  I understand that exacctly the opposite is true for trip 7, no compression at all.   Many target shooters report inconsistent accuraccy with trip 7.

The Buff classic is actually one of the easier guns to clean.  You can remove the barrel easily.  Not like a trapdoor or Martini.

Have fun! 

[John Boy]

First off would be reaming to 45-90 (2.4").

Bill, there is IMHO only one reamer that should be used for the 45-90.  It was designed by Dan Theodore and Steve Rhoades, a reknowned BPCR gunsmith has it.

STEVE RHOADES
BLACK POWDER CARTRIDGE DIVISION DIRECTOR-ARIZONA STATE RIFLE AND PISTOL  ASSOCIATION
27409 N. 60TH Ln.  Phoenix, AZ. 85083
623-581-3624  or  602-550-3134 cell  or  623-780-2896 fax
bpsteve@cox.net