bullet selection - NEF buffalo classic

[coyote_cooker]

I was talking to a friend of mine tonight, and he just got a new hunting lease and wanted to know if I wanted to go hunt some pigs sometime, and of course I said yes. Anyways, now I am in need of a good bullet for my 45-70 to hunt pigs with. I will be using shooting it out of my 34" buffalo classic, and I want the flattest shooting load I can find, as well as some serious knockdown power. I need to get some ammo loaded within the next two weeks, so I can get some testing done before we go out into the field. Don't know what kind of velocity to expect, but I am gussing with a jacketed bullet some where in the 2000-2500fps range.  Has anyone had any luck with the factory sights on this gun?  Seems like they are not all that good past 100 yds, but I have only tried low velocity heavy bullets (500gr) and I was not satisfied at all with that load, so thought I would try some jaceted bullets.

[victorcharlie]

I haven't hand loaded any yet, but have had very good 100 yard groups with the PMC 350gn HA +P+.  PMC uses a Horniday 350gn flat nose loaded to 2025 fps and generating 3100 ft. lbs of energy.  What suprised me was the accuracy, 1 1/4 inch groups measured center to center out of my 1895 marlin.  Seems this one might be worth looking at.  I'd like to know what you come up with.....Hope your hunt goes well!

[missed_shot]

I have killed sever hogs usong mu Buff Classic.  I use reloads of 405 gr. rem bullets and 36 grains of 3031 powder. Put it 1 inch high at 100 yds . You will be amazed in the power and penetration   of this load.

[Gowge]

I think you're really pushing the action of the NEF Single Shot if you expect to get anywhere near that kind of power with a bullet that will hold together on a big hog.  

Figure a lot less velocity, but totally adequate power with a 300-350gr jacketed or cast bullet.

Here's a couple of 45-70 articles you might find helpful - they're meant for Lever Action Rifles, so keep that in mind - they'll handle a lot more pressure than your break-action single shot NEF.  

http://www.leverguns.com/articles/marlin_4570.htm

http://www.sixgunner.com/backissues/paco/4570leverguns.htm

Garrett Cartridges has some 45-70 loads listed as OK for NEF rifles that are pretty stout, but still in the Level 2 Range...

The standard (Not +P) 420gr Super Hard Cast at 1650fps should be a great hog cruncher in your Buffalo Hunter and easy on the shoulder, too!  

http://www.garrettcartridges.com/products.asp

GOOD LUCK!  :wink:

[Somerled]

You might try the 300 grain Sierra JHP with 55.0 grains of H4198. It should generate about 2,300 fps. It is a mild load from Hodgdon's site.

[MSP Ret]

H&R has repeatedly stated lever guns loads are OK in the Handi....<><.... :grin: