The venerable .45-70 Government cartridge, a powerhouse known for its stopping power and historical significance, demands careful consideration when reloading. This guide focuses on providing comprehensive reloading data specifically for Hornady components, ensuring safe and accurate ammunition for your firearm. Always prioritize safety and consult your firearm's manual before attempting any reloading. This information is for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for your own careful research and testing.
Understanding Hornady's .45-70 Offerings
Hornady offers a wide range of components suitable for .45-70 reloading, including:
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Bullets: Hornady provides a diverse selection of bullets in various weights, designs, and materials. From their classic lead bullets perfect for cast boolit enthusiasts to their high-performance jacketed options for hunting, there's a bullet to suit your needs and shooting style. Popular choices include their FTX, RN, and JSP bullets.
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Powders: Hornady recommends specific powders for optimal performance and safety in their reloading manuals. Commonly used powders for .45-70 include IMR 4198, IMR 3031, and others. Choosing the correct powder is paramount for consistent velocity and pressure.
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Primers: Hornady primers are designed for reliable ignition in the .45-70 cartridge. Always use primers specified in your chosen reloading manual. Large rifle magnum primers are typically recommended.
Reloading Data Considerations: Safety First!
Before diving into specific data, it's crucial to reiterate the importance of safety:
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Start Low, Work Up: Begin with the minimum charge weight recommended by Hornady or another reputable source. Gradually increase the charge weight in small increments, carefully observing pressure signs.
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Accurate Measurements: Use a precise powder measure to ensure consistent powder charges. Inconsistent powder charges can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
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Proper Case Preparation: Thoroughly clean, inspect, and size your cases. Ensure they're free of any imperfections that could affect pressure.
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Consistent Seating Depth: Maintain a consistent bullet seating depth to ensure consistent performance and pressure.
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Pressure Signs: Be vigilant for pressure signs, including excessive primer flow, flattened primers, and unusually hard bolt lift. If you observe any pressure signs, immediately stop reloading and re-evaluate your process.
Sample Reloading Data (Hornady Components) – Disclaimer: This is sample data only and may not be suitable for all firearms. Always consult Hornady's official reloading manual and your firearm's manual before attempting to reload ammunition.
This table is a placeholder and should not be used for reloading. Obtain current, verified data from a reputable source like the Hornady Handbook.
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | Powder | Powder Charge (grains) | Primer | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Example) 300 | (Example) RN | (Example) IMR 4198 | (Example) 40 | (Example) Large Rifle Magnum | (Example) 2.550 | (Example) Start Low, Work Up |
| (Example) 405 | (Example) FP | (Example) IMR 3031 | (Example) 45 | (Example) Large Rifle Magnum | (Example) 2.600 | (Example) Start Low, Work Up |
Finding Reliable Reloading Data
The most reliable source for Hornady reloading data is the Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading. This manual contains extensive data tested and verified by Hornady's experts. You can also find reloading data from other reputable sources, such as online reloading forums (use caution and always cross-reference information) and other ammunition manufacturers' manuals. Always remember to cross-reference the data and prioritize safety.
Conclusion
Reloading .45-70 Government ammunition with Hornady components can be rewarding, providing accurate and powerful ammunition tailored to your specific needs. However, it's crucial to approach reloading with caution and a deep understanding of safety procedures. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and your firearm's manual before beginning. Remember, accuracy and safety should always be your top priorities.
