45/70 Lee Loader Loads

[totallycustom]

I am just starting to tinker in rifle reloading, have a good shotgun press, but I have a lee loader for my 45/70 and was wondering...

What is the best all around load for hunting in the west bears/deer/elk,  from the lee loader's chart, or compatable with the single dipper that is going to work well for a variety of shooting situations.

In other words if you were only going to load one load what would it be?

Thanks,
-TC-

[John Traveler]

The Classic Lee Loader is a good place to start with basic, functional ammunition.  It's economical, and makes good ammo intended to be fired in one gun.  Make sure your fired cartridge cases chamber in the rifle you are loading for.  The Lee Loader only neck sizes the case mouth.

I like the loads using IMR 3031 or IMR 4198 powders with the 405 grain jacketed or cast lead bullets.  One scoop of either of these powders topped with that weight bullet makes an 1150 fps load safe in all .45-70 rifles, including Springfield M1873, the classic Army rifle generations ago.  It is this bullet weight and velocity that gave the cartridge it's reputation for taking all north American game.

Have fun with your reloading!

John