Picked up a handi 45/70 to use as a dedicated cast shooter. Thanks for all the info, have spent most of my time learning from your experience. Objective was to be as cost efficient as possible, not necessarily cheap,... ok possibly. Also to have a rifle that might be banged around from time to time. I'm the kinda guy that can get oil spots on new boots just walking through the garage. Mounted a Bushnell 1.5X4, used extra high rings with hammer extension. Bore slugged at .457 and the Lee 405gr mold dropped the wheel weight/lead mix at .460. One link that might help someone is
http://www.castpics.net/ where there is a listing of lyman/rcbs top punches that can be used for lee molds. Sized them to .459 with BAC lube. Worked the barrel over as suggested in the FAQ's with bore paste prior to shooting. Vertical stringing was evident from the beginning, that was alleviated with the washer under the forend. Utilizing trapdoor loads with several powders I had on hand so far 2400 is the most accurate at just over 1300 fps. Trigger pull is heavier than I have been using in awhile but very predictable, may wait a bit to see if I want to do the trigger make over. Lee dies, came with shell holder, added factory crimp die, are used for reloading. Swivels and nylon sling, some new brass set me at a total around $450. Have been more than pleased with the outcome so far. Have a good one!
