The .45-70 Government cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history spanning over a century, continues to captivate shooters and reloaders alike. Its potent power, coupled with its availability in various platforms from lever-action rifles to modern bolt-actions, ensures its enduring popularity. This guide delves into the specifics of reloading .45-70 Government brass, covering everything from sourcing quality cases to achieving optimal performance.
Sourcing Your .45-70 Brass: Quality Matters
Before even thinking about primers, powder, and bullets, securing a reliable supply of high-quality brass is paramount. The longevity and safety of your reloading efforts hinge on this crucial first step. Several options exist for acquiring .45-70 brass:
1. New Brass: The Premium Choice
Purchasing new, once-fired .45-70 brass guarantees consistency and avoids potential issues stemming from previously fired cases. While more expensive upfront, the reduced risk of case failures and the potential for more reloads make it a worthwhile investment for precision reloaders. Look for reputable ammunition manufacturers known for producing high-quality brass.
2. Range Brass: The Budget-Friendly Route
Collecting range brass presents a cost-effective alternative. However, this method requires careful inspection and cleaning. Inspect each case thoroughly for cracks, dents, or any signs of damage that could compromise safety. Remember, damaged brass should always be discarded.
3. Online Retailers and Forums: Expanding Your Options
Online retailers and reloading forums offer a vast marketplace for buying and selling used .45-70 brass. However, exercise caution when purchasing used brass. Carefully examine descriptions and photos, and consider the seller's reputation before committing to a purchase.
Preparing Your .45-70 Brass for Reloading
Once you've gathered your brass, proper preparation is essential to ensure consistent and safe reloading:
1. Cleaning: Removing Debris and Buildup
Thoroughly clean all brass to remove any residual powder, primer residue, and dirt. A combination of ultrasonic cleaning and a good brass brush is highly recommended. This process ensures the removal of any contaminants that could affect the reloading process.
2. Inspecting for Defects: Safety First
Meticulously inspect each case for imperfections. Look for cracks, particularly at the case mouth and shoulder, bulges, and any signs of excessive wear. Discard any damaged cases immediately to prevent potential hazards.
3. Sizing: Ensuring Proper Fit
Sizing is crucial to ensure consistent headspace and proper chambering. Use a sizing die appropriate for your specific reloading press and .45-70 brass. Lubricating the cases before sizing is vital to prevent damage to the brass and your equipment.
4. Trimming: Maintaining Case Length
Trimming is essential to maintain consistent case length, crucial for reliable ignition and consistent pressure. Using a case trimmer and ensuring all cases are within the recommended length range prevents excessive pressure and ensures proper function.
Reloading Your .45-70 Brass: A Step-by-Step Process
The precise steps for reloading .45-70 brass will depend on your chosen equipment and desired load. However, some general steps are common to all .45-70 reloading:
- De-priming: Remove the spent primer.
- Resizing: Resize the case to the correct dimensions.
- Case Preparation: Trim, clean, and inspect your brass once more.
- Priming: Insert a new primer.
- Powder Charging: Carefully add the correct amount of powder using a powder measure.
- Seating the Bullet: Seat the bullet to the desired depth.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth to securely hold the bullet in place.
Important Note: Always consult a reliable reloading manual specific to .45-70 Government for safe and accurate load data. Never deviate from published data.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Journey
Reloading .45-70 Government brass is a rewarding experience, offering cost savings and the ability to tailor ammunition to your specific needs. By following these steps and emphasizing safety throughout the process, you can enjoy the precision and power of your hand-loaded .45-70 ammunition for years to come. Remember that safety is paramount, always refer to reputable reloading manuals and consult experienced reloaders if you have any questions or doubts.
