The 45-70 Government: A Legacy in Lead and Fire
The story of the 45-70 Government cartridge is a tale woven through the fabric of American history. Born from the need for a more powerful and effective rifle cartridge for the U.S. military, it quickly earned a reputation for its devastating power and versatility. From the buffalo hunts that shaped the American West to the battles fought against indigenous peoples, the 45-70 Government became synonymous with rugged reliability and formidable stopping power. Even today, long after its adoption by the military, this iconic cartridge remains a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and anyone who appreciates the history and effectiveness of a truly classic round. In a world of rapid technological advancements, the 45-70 Government stands as a testament to enduring design and enduring appeal.
The Allure of Reloading: A Deep Dive
While factory ammunition for the 45-70 Government is readily available, many enthusiasts choose to embrace the art and science of reloading. Reloading is the practice of disassembling spent cartridge cases, replacing the components (primer, powder, and bullet), and reassembling them into a functional round. This process offers a multitude of benefits, making it an attractive option for experienced shooters and those new to the hobby.
The most immediate advantage of reloading is often the cost savings. By purchasing components in bulk, reloaders can significantly reduce the per-round cost of ammunition. This can be especially beneficial for those who enjoy frequent shooting or who own firearms chambered for less common or more expensive cartridges.
Beyond the financial aspect, reloading provides unparalleled customization options. You can tailor the load to meet your exact needs, whether you’re pursuing maximum accuracy for target shooting or seeking optimal performance for a specific hunting scenario. Experimenting with different powders, bullet weights, and primer types allows you to fine-tune your loads to achieve the best results in your particular firearm. This level of personalization simply isn’t possible with factory ammunition.
Reloading also offers the chance to improve the accuracy of your ammunition. By carefully controlling every aspect of the loading process, reloaders can produce ammunition that is superior to even the best factory loads. This is achieved through precise measurements, meticulous attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of ballistics. Furthermore, reloading is an engaging and rewarding hobby, allowing you to understand the inner workings of ammunition and become intimately familiar with your firearms.
Safety: The Cornerstone of Reloading
Before delving into any specifics of reloading the 45-70 Government, it’s imperative to underscore the paramount importance of safety. Reloading, by its very nature, involves handling potentially dangerous materials and working with processes that can be hazardous if not performed with utmost care and precision. Always remember that improperly loaded ammunition can cause serious injury or even death. Always start with a solid foundation of safety before handling any reloading components or equipment.
Proper safety equipment is non-negotiable. You must always wear appropriate eye protection, such as safety glasses or shooting glasses, to shield your eyes from potential hazards such as flying debris. Hearing protection, in the form of earmuffs or earplugs, is equally crucial to protect your hearing from the loud noises associated with the reloading process. Gloves are often recommended to protect your hands from contamination and to provide a better grip on components.
A clean and well-organized work environment is a key element of a safe reloading practice. Make sure your reloading area is free from distractions, clutter, and any potential sources of ignition, such as open flames or flammable materials. A well-lit workspace will also help prevent errors and ensure you can clearly see the components and equipment.
Reloading manuals are your most valuable resource. These comprehensive guides contain detailed instructions, load data, and safety information for a wide variety of cartridges and components. Always consult a current reloading manual and follow its recommendations precisely. Never deviate from the recommended powder charges, bullet weights, and other specifications.
Proper storage is essential. Store your reloading components, including primers, powders, and bullets, in a cool, dry place, away from any sources of heat or ignition. Properly labeled storage containers are also crucial. Make sure to store loaded ammunition separately from components and label all ammunition clearly with the type of load and any relevant data.
Thoroughly inspect your reloading equipment on a regular basis. Ensure that your press, dies, scales, and other tools are in good working order. Lubricate your equipment as recommended and replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.
Never attempt to reload if you are feeling unwell, distracted, or under the influence of any substances that could impair your judgment. Reloading requires concentration and focus, and any impairment can increase the risk of errors and accidents.
The Building Blocks of Your 45-70 Government Loads: Understanding the Components
Reloading the 45-70 Government requires a selection of components that will form the foundation of your ammunition. Each component plays a crucial role in the final performance of the cartridge.
Brass casings are the containers that house the other components of the ammunition. The quality and preparation of the brass are critical for accuracy and safe reloading. You can choose between new brass and once-fired brass. New brass is, as you might expect, unused. This brass will often come with a higher price tag, but ensures that it is manufactured to current specifications and tolerances. Once-fired brass can be a more economical choice, but you must carefully inspect it for damage, such as cracks or splits. Brass preparation is essential for consistent loads. Cleaning the brass removes dirt, debris, and any residue from previous firings. Inspection involves closely examining the brass casings for any signs of damage. Trimming the brass to the correct length ensures consistent neck tension and helps to improve accuracy. Deburring and chamfering the case mouth smooths the edges to facilitate bullet seating.
Primers are small, sensitive components that initiate the ignition of the powder charge. Selection of the correct primer is important. The size and type of the primer should match the load data and the primer pocket of the brass. Store primers in a cool, dry place, in their original packaging.
Powder is the propellant that generates the pressure needed to propel the bullet down the barrel. The selection of the proper powder is crucial. The 45-70 Government can function with a variety of powders. Consider burn rate. Powder burn rate is a measurement of how quickly the powder burns. Choose a powder with a burn rate that is suitable for the bullet weight and intended use. Powders must be stored properly, kept in a cool, dry place away from any source of heat or ignition.
Bullets are the projectiles that travel down the barrel and strike the target. The choices are varied. Selecting the right bullet depends on the intended use of the ammunition. If hunting is the goal, consider a bullet with controlled expansion, such as a jacketed soft point or a hollow point. For target shooting, lead bullets or jacketed bullets are often used. Choose a bullet weight appropriate for your rifle’s twist rate and the intended use of the ammunition.
Beyond the individual components, there’s the reloading equipment. A reloading press is the heart of the reloading operation. It is used to seat primers, size brass, and seat bullets. Reloading dies are used to resize the brass, seat the bullets, and crimp the case. A scale is essential for accurately measuring the powder charges. A powder measure dispenses the powder into the case. Calipers are used to measure the case length and overall cartridge length.
Crafting the Rounds: A Step-by-Step Guide to Reloading
With the proper components and equipment in place, you can begin the reloading process. Remember, this is where attention to detail and careful adherence to the manual is crucial for safety and accuracy.
Case preparation is the first step. Begin by cleaning the brass. Next, inspect the casings for damage. Check for any cracks, splits, or other defects that would make them unsafe to use. Then, trim the cases to the correct length. Use a case trimmer to ensure all cases are the same length. Finally, deburr and chamfer the case mouths. This smooths the edges and makes bullet seating easier.
Priming the cases is the next step. Ensure that the primer pocket is clean. Insert the primer into the primer pocket using a priming tool or your reloading press.
Powder charging is also a critical stage. Measure the powder charge. Use a scale and powder measure to accurately weigh the powder charge. Consult your reloading manual for the correct load data. Carefully pour the measured powder charge into each prepared case.
Bullet seating is where the bullet is installed. Place the bullet on top of the case. Use the seating die in your reloading press to seat the bullet to the correct depth. Refer to your reloading manual for the recommended seating depth.
Crimping, if required, is the final step. Roll crimp is ideal for cartridges like the 45-70 Government. The crimp secures the bullet and helps maintain consistent chamber pressure.
Complete the reloading process with a final inspection. Measure the overall cartridge length (OAL) to ensure it is within the specified range. Check for any signs of damage or inconsistencies. Verify that the bullet is seated properly and that the crimp is correct.
Handling Potential Issues: Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with careful preparation and attention to detail, reloading can sometimes present challenges. Understanding and addressing these problems is a part of the process.
Difficult case extraction can indicate a problem. Potential causes include too much powder, or the brass is not sized properly. Inspect the case and the reloading data. If this happens, address the root cause and correct the issue.
Flattened primers can be a cause for concern. This can indicate that you are approaching or exceeding the maximum pressure of the round. Back off on your powder charge and consult a reloading manual.
Sticky bolt lift can also point to excessive pressure. The solution is similar to the flattened primers; reduce your powder charge and consult a reloading manual.
Inconsistent accuracy can be a frustrating problem. There could be multiple reasons for the inconsistency. The bullet selection, powder selection, and loading technique all factor into accuracy. Experiment with different components, loads, and techniques to find what works best for your firearm.
The data found in reloading manuals and this information is for guidance only. Always consult a reliable reloading manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Bringing It All Together: The Enduring Appeal of Reloading
The 45-70 Government is a cartridge with a rich history and a dedicated following. Reloading, combined with the historic 45-70 Government, is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to connect with the history of this iconic cartridge. Reloading allows for unparalleled control over your ammunition and the ability to craft loads tailored to your specific needs and your firearm. It’s a hobby that combines precision, patience, and a deep appreciation for the art of marksmanship.
Always consult the reloading manuals and use all the safety procedures to ensure that the reloading process is executed without error. By understanding the basics of reloading, the proper safety protocols, and the unique characteristics of the 45-70 Government, you can enjoy the rewards of this challenging and rewarding hobby.
Important Disclaimer
Reloading ammunition involves inherent risks, including the potential for serious injury or death. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional instruction or advice. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and follow all safety precautions when reloading ammunition. The author and this website are not responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from the use of the provided information. Reloading is a dangerous activity; only undertake it if you are thoroughly knowledgeable and understand the risks involved.
