45-70 Loads for 16" Contender

[Fearless]

I am looking for help in reloading for a 16" contender in 45-70.  I will be using Sierra 300 grain Hp bullets.  Any suggestions on powder/loads?  Thanks for the help.  Fearless

[Hawkeye]

My pet load for my 14" Contender barrel uses the Sierra 300 JHP.
I use 37grns of IMR4198 with Fed 210 Primer. This is not max but you might start at 35grns and work up to some load you feel is good for your barrel and get used to the recoil. I also put a crimp on the bullet.
These are shooting 1405 fps at 85 degrees outside temp. from my barrel and I have taken two whitetail with them. Sure is a thumper.

Mike

[Redhawk1]

I use 36 gr. of IMR4198 and WLP primers under a Sierra 300 gr. HP bullet. A mild load but shoot very accurately out of my 12 inch 45-70 contender.

[Fearless]

Hawkeye and Redhawk,
Thanks for the info.  I will load some up and give them a try!  One more question.  What OAL do you use?  Thanks.  Fearless

[Redhawk1]

Hawkeye and Redhawk,
Thanks for the info.  I will load some up and give them a try!  One more question.  What OAL do you use?  Thanks.  Fearless

My OAL is 2.550