Modern smokeless loads in a 45/90

[MTM]

Just wondering if anyone has tried a bunch of slower powder in the 45/90. Thinking a case fairly full of something like 4350. I’ve got a ton of Rel 15 thinking that might work to. Not looking for maximum loads just a full case. Any experience? Oh it’s in an 1885 so strong action.

 

[saskgunowner101]

Do you mean 45/70? If so, I've tinkered with IMR-4350 with good results. I'll see if I can find records or results.

Edit to add: I read the action type wrong, thinking it was an 1895, and most likely 45/70.

 

[Andy]

I have a 45-90 and have tinkered with loads quite a bit. My loads are all recoil limited as once you get above 400 gr bullets even at - watch out!

What rifle is it chambered in? You can use full cases of powders slower than Varget even up to 500 gr in any action - even "Trapdoor" strength. Go with a stronger action and you can walk the powders suitable for a full case with a 500 gr (and lighter) bullet back a bit to powders faster than IMR-4064.

If you work with a 4350 and slower, you won't exceed safe pressure limits, with any weight bullet up to 500 grs, in any action.

Two of my favourites: H4831 and US869 - both with magnum primers.

 

[MTM]

Great to hear Andy, just what I was hoping. How was accuracy with the slow powders?

 

[Andy]

Great to hear Andy, just what I was hoping. How was accuracy with the slow powders?

I can't help you in that regard for two reasons:

1. I didn't record it; and anyways even if I had
2. that will depend on your components and your rifle.

My best recorded accuracy with 45-90 in my H&R Buffalo Classic (rechambered from 45-70) has been with IMR-4198.

When I had an H&R Handi-Rifle in 500 S&W, best accuracy was with a full case of BL-C(2), which was a mild load in that small cartridge.

Some rifles like loads as hot as possible, others well below maximum.

 

[mbogo3]

What gun are you loading for? The early levers were designed for the 300gr bullet to feed properly.ROT will also matter.There is several pages of data in the Ken Waters Pet Loads book.

 

[MTM]

It’s a Uberti 1885 32”. 20” twist so should shoot everything fairly well. My guide guns always worked with 3031 and 4198. Just thinking bigger case bigger barrel, slower might work.