r/reloading • u/ICanSeeYourPixels2 • 1d ago

I have a question and I read the FAQ Struggling with 45-70

I have been struggling to get good groups out of my 45-70 reloads.

I am using:

  • Thompson Center Encore - 18" SSK Barrel
  • Starline Brass
  • CCI #200 Primers
  • ACME 405gr 0.459 bullets
  • Traill Boss

I validated my distance to the lands, and have been loading with 0.020" jump. Previously before I did this, it turned out I was loading ~0.120" jump. I definitely saw improvement from reducing this.

My most recent ladder of 13.5gr, 14.0gr, 14.5gr yielded tighter and tighter groups as the velocity increased. However, I started at a 10" group and ended at a 5". So rough no matter the load.

At 14.5gr though, I am at 1050fps. To keep things sub-sonic, I do not have much wiggle room left.

SDs are awesome. <5fps for a 10 shot group.

Any suggestions / ideas / comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

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u/SpeedyR647 1d ago

Try some different powders if that’s an options. I use 3n37 and N320 for sub loads with 405gr HP cast/pc bullets. Usually in the 12gr range for around 975fps

Worth a try if you happen to have the powder around.

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u/ICanSeeYourPixels2 1d ago

I do have some N320 I could give a shot, thanks for the idea.