[findrichard]

Well I finally took my first step into reloading. I bought and read "The Complete Reloading Manual for the 45-70 Government". I was disappointed to find that the speer 300 grain was not in this "complete manual". So I am wondering what reloading manual would give me the most information for this bullet loaded with H322 and RL7 powders. Or maybe a better question would be, what is the best reloading manual for the 45-70?

 

[1895Gunner]

I'm pretty happy with the Lee "Modern Reloading 2nd Edition" Manual for my 45/70 loads. I've only been using H4198 but will be adding other powders in the near future.

 

[Rowdy]

findrichard -
If you just want the data for Speer 300gr FNHP and Alliant RL-7 and RL-10X it is here;

http://www.alliantpowder.com/reload...gtypeid=2&weight=300&shellid=109&bulletid=164

 

[Pard]

I use the same one you have. It covers 95% of jacketed. I use Lyman cast books for cast.

 

[zerbe]

I have a Lyman 48th edition reloading manual that has both jacketed and cast load for a substantial number of calibers. I've never used the cast loads to date, but after getting the 45-70, it really seems appropriate to start.

 

[Windage]

I have a Lyman 48th edition reloading manual that has both jacketed and cast load for a substantial number of calibers. I've never used the cast loads to date, but after getting the 45-70, it really seems appropriate to start.

I find the Lee manual very helpful but one of my favorite sources is the online Hodgdon load data site. My only caution would be that the loads in many manuals are quite a bit milder than those listed at http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp If you use the Hodgdon data be sure you start at the start load and work your way up... preferably with the help of a chronometer. And be very sure about which brass you are using as there is quite a volume difference between Remington and Winchester for example. I won't go into the details here - you can find several posts in the reloading section on this forum - but many of the experts say you can get into dangerous pressures if you build hot loads with the wrong brass.

I am waiting to get my hands on a copy of the new, 8th Edition, of the Hornady reloading handbook. My buddy has one and it is very good... however it is quite conservative compared to the Hodgdon site. I have found that reloading is more of an art than rocket science, you have to find the best sources you can for information... and then use your own best judgment. That said I enjoy reloading almost as much as shooting...it has opened up a whole new dimension to the sport.

 

[brianscott12]

Hodgdon is a good sight. I use it quite a bit.

 

[Mr Fixit]

You'll find links to a lot of powder manufacturers in the Reloading Stickies. Get nosy, this site has got to have more info on it than any other site. Mr fixit

 

[rhendrix]

I'm pretty happy with the Lee "Modern Reloading 2nd Edition" Manual for my 45/70 loads. I've only been using H4198 but will be adding other powders in the near future.

What dies do you use to load your 45-70? Do you use a crimp die?

 

[1895Gunner]

What dies do you use to load your 45-70? Do you use a crimp die?

I use Hornady's series II rifle dies, they crimp just fine. I've been primarily loading Remington 300gr JHP-crimps well. I also load the Hornady FTX 325gr in short Hornady brass and they crimp well too.

 

[findrichard]

Thanks guys, all good information. Just got back to central Florida and have a pile of honey dues to get out of the way first, then I am going to start acquiring my reloading stuff. Hope to have my load development complete in time for this year's upcoming deer season.