Springfield 1870 Trapdoor

[Entry Level]

I am going to begin shooting a 50-70 Springfield so could use any help offered. I will shoot Pyrodex to start since I uas it for my muzzleloaders. I see 45 grains of 2F and a 450 grain bullet is a good place to start. Thanks

Information

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[browningautorifle]

Yes, trapdoors, even the new made 45/70 H&Rs aren't particularly stout. I wouldn't load too heavy. I also used Pyrodex for replacement BP loads. I also used smokeless...you'll enjoy this one.

[carbineone1964]

I have a 1868 I am going to reload for soon. Have never fired it, no ammunition yet. But it has a absolute mint bore and rifling and great shape overall. I am not afraid to load 60 grains of 2F real back when I get to that point. That is about all that will fit in the case anyway. I think 70 would fit the old cases. But not the modern ones. I will only be using real black. I think you will be disappointed with pryodex. But give it a try and see.

Where did you acquire your components brass/bullets and dies from? I need to get that stuff yet also. I am going to go with atleast a .515 bullet diameter. What are you going to try or have used?

I have been looking for a few loose rounds to try it out first. But have come up empty so far at the locals shows. So reloading is going to be it if I have a chance of ever firing it I guess.

Heres a pic of mine.

[Parashooter]

Not being a fan of smoke, stink, cleaning, or corrosion, I load mine with smokeless. Accuracy isn't outstanding, but not terrible for a 150-year old rifle -

[carbineone1964]

That is a Beautiful 1868. And great shooting in my opinion. Especially given the somewhat poor sights they have.

I have loaded smokeless for 45-70 before. BP does not bother me all that much. I am used to cleanup of it. Have 6 BP Cannons, they are much bigger to clean up even.

[Entry Level]

I am using Track of the Wolf and Midway for components. Years ago I had an 1863 Sharps Carbine. Components were difficult now everything is available. I am setting up my dies and looking at load data now. I am sure the old buck horn sight will be tough on old eyes. Is there a way to improve the rear sight? I use Pyrodex in my muzzle loaders and have learned to clean well and leave a well oiled patch on a cleaning rod in all the bores, I also remove the nipples and push an oiled patch in the open hole. I received a round of 50-70 when I bought this rifle. It was a Rem case with a spent primer. I thought it was a dummy case but not trusting to chance I dismantled this round and found it was a misfire. Full of powder and paper wadding. I once bought a muzzle loader by mail and when I checked the bore found a full charge still in the rifle. I think someone tried to fire the rifle couldn't get it to go off and sold it out of frustration and didn't tell me. That's when I learned how to use a bullet screw. It's all good, I am waiting on the Pawn Shop hold till new year so I will have some rounds ready to go. I have a military bench match in January so it will be ready to go. Thanks for the info and fine pictures. Cheers .......and that is a finely shot target.