The .45-70 Government cartridge, a venerable round with a rich history spanning over a century, continues to captivate shooters. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting your journey, understanding the nuances of selecting and using reloading dies for this powerful cartridge is crucial for safe and accurate ammunition. This guide delves into the world of .45-70 Government reloading dies, offering insights for both beginners and experienced reloaders.
Choosing the Right 45-70 Government Reloading Dies
Selecting the appropriate reloading dies is the cornerstone of successful reloading. Several factors influence your choice, including:
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Type of Reloading Press: Different presses (single-stage, progressive, turret) require dies designed for their specific mechanisms. Ensure compatibility before purchasing. While most dies are adaptable across many press types, some specialized features might only work with certain presses.
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Case Length: The .45-70 Government has variations in case length, particularly between cartridges produced for different firearms. This variation is crucial when selecting dies; some are designed for specific case lengths, while others are designed to accommodate a range of lengths. Pay close attention to the manufacturer's specifications.
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Die Set Components: A complete die set typically includes a sizing die, a powder measure, a seating die, and a bullet crimping die. Some sets also include a decapping die, crucial for removing spent primers. Understanding the function of each component is critical.
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Brand Reputation: Established brands like Lee Precision, RCBS, Hornady, and Redding are known for producing high-quality reloading dies. While less expensive options exist, investing in reputable brands can help prevent costly errors and ensure consistent results.
Understanding the Die Set Components:
- Sizing Die: Resizes the spent cartridge case to its original dimensions, ensuring proper chambering.
- Decapping Die (Often included): Removes the spent primer from the cartridge case.
- Powder Measure: Measures and dispenses the correct amount of powder into each cartridge case. Accuracy is paramount here.
- Seating Die: Seats the bullet firmly onto the loaded powder charge. Consistent seating depth is essential for accuracy.
- Crimping Die: Crimps the case mouth to securely hold the bullet in place, preventing it from moving during firing.
Tips for Successful 45-70 Government Reloading
Reloading the .45-70 Government requires precision and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Start with a good manual: Consult a reloading manual specific to the .45-70 Government cartridge, as load data varies significantly between manufacturers and bullet types.
- Weigh your powder charges: Never rely solely on the powder measure's settings; always double-check the powder charge weight using a scale.
- Inspect your cases: Check each cartridge case for damage or imperfections before reloading. Even minor flaws can lead to dangerous failures.
- Use quality components: Use high-quality bullets, primers, and powder, as their consistency contributes to the reliability and accuracy of your reloaded ammunition.
- Start with minimum loads: Begin your reloading process with minimum loads specified in your manual and gradually work up to higher charges while paying close attention to pressure signs. Overloading can be incredibly dangerous.
- Clean your dies regularly: Regular cleaning ensures consistent performance of your dies and prevents buildup of debris that can affect the accuracy of your rounds.
Conclusion
Reloading your own .45-70 Government ammunition offers the rewards of accuracy, cost savings, and the satisfaction of crafting your own projectiles. However, remember that reloading is a serious endeavor requiring precision, care, and a strong understanding of safety guidelines. By carefully selecting your reloading dies, following established procedures, and prioritizing safety, you can successfully reload your .45-70 Government cartridges and enjoy the benefits of this powerful and historic round.
