Author Topic: 45-70 handloads  (Read 1859 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline diesel instructor

  • GBO Supporter
  • Trade Count: (25)
  • Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 94
  • Gender: Male
45-70 handloads
« on: January 08, 2011, 07:54:12 PM »
my 45-70 is an H&R. orignaly, a 30-06. also have 50 ML barrel and 12 GA shotgun barrel fitted to the SB2 receiver. my question is, can the 45-70 be loaded to Ruger no. 1 specs? loading data lists 3 rifles, the trapdoor, marlin lever, and the no. 1. the specs for no. 1 loads do not exceed 30-06 presures. both 55000+ for max. I would think the 45-70 handi could handle the no 1 pressures since it already does so with the 30-06. how about some opinions, please.

Offline jlwilliams

  • Trade Count: (2)
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1321
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #1 on: January 09, 2011, 02:32:54 AM »
  I can't answer that, but I'm wondering the same thing.  Tagging this thread so I see what those who know post.

Offline kevinsmith5

  • Trade Count: (4)
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1274
  • Gender: Male
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #2 on: January 09, 2011, 12:08:30 PM »
The action is strong enough, but you probably aren't. The recoil is borderline obscene.  I loaded some 550 gr bullets up to 1950 fps in mine ONCE. Wayyyyyy more recoil than I cared for, even with 19 ounces of lead in the bolt hole and a recoil pad.

You could also shoot the action loose by stretching it under heavy recoil if you shoot those level repeatedly.
If he's carrying a singleshot, don't expect a warning shot!

Offline BenT

  • Trade Count: (1)
  • Member
  • *
  • Posts: 11
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #3 on: January 09, 2011, 01:08:40 PM »
The gun is too light to be pleasant to shoot with heavy loads. Plus the latch needs to be clean of oil or it will pop open under heavy recoil. That is the problem that I've heard reported with the buffalo classic. I wouldn't go past Marlin loads. The lock ups on a hinge action aren't the same as a dropping black like a Ruger #1. Some people report filling the stock with lead shot to help with recoil.   Good Luck!

Offline MePlat

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • A Real Regular
  • ****
  • Posts: 601
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #4 on: January 09, 2011, 01:11:36 PM »
The  Handi Rifle is chambered in 500 Smith and Wesson.  I have one.  What is the chamber pressure they operate?
It is more than mild.  Way more than mild.
You Know Me.  I Don't Have a Clue

Offline kevinsmith5

  • Trade Count: (4)
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1274
  • Gender: Male
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #5 on: January 09, 2011, 01:53:08 PM »
Wander over to the NEF/H&R forum. This conversation has been repeated ad nauseum.
If he's carrying a singleshot, don't expect a warning shot!

Offline nomosendero

  • Trade Count: (6)
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 5760
  • Gender: Male
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #6 on: January 09, 2011, 02:56:26 PM »
Wander over to the NEF/H&R forum. This conversation has been repeated ad nauseum.

That's right, it comes up over there once a month or so. I already said that I have commented on that particular
subject on that forum for the last time unless I decide to on an existing thread. A man has to wash his hands of the matter at some point.  ::) Remember the diff in dia. of bolt/thrust, let the folks over there tell you about that, complete with charts, what you can do with a 30-06 case does not translate to what you can do with the 45/70 case.

Some feel that you can load to what the case can stand before you have a problem with the Handi when it comes to the 45/70. I don't load in that fashion when it comes to the 45/70.
Some will tell you that you can use Ruger Number 1 data, but I sure won't & I don't think you will find the major loading manuals to load the Handi with the data for the MUCH stronger Number 1 either.

I believe the primary Loading manual foks will put the Handi in the Marlin catagory, I trust their judgement over home brewers without all the pressure testing instruments at their disposal.
The nice thing is the Marlin levels will do fine for all NA game.

One thing for sure is plent of Handi enthusiasts will tell you what you desire to hear but I would use caution. If it's really important to you, contact Speer, Sierra etc.
You will not make peace with the Bluecoats, you are free to go.

Offline diesel instructor

  • GBO Supporter
  • Trade Count: (25)
  • Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 94
  • Gender: Male
Re: 45-70 handloads
« Reply #7 on: January 09, 2011, 06:45:42 PM »
thank you guys for that info. sorry. didn't know it was covered elsewhere. only loading 300 gr jacketed to 2000- 2100 fps. even then I use the Past magnum recoil pad. not considering those 500 grainers 'cause here in Pa. we don't have an elephant season. I will check the other threads next time before I put forth any more questions that has already been covered. thanks again.