Reloading for a Ruger#1-45/70

[Wayne Smith]

I remember reading that when the Army changed to the 405gr carbine load they had to use a crimp to hold the bullet in until the powder was burning. The 520gr bullet had enough weight to stay in place without a crimp. That's the only crimp I know that is required in the 45-70 single shot.

[EDG]

OK I have quite a different view on this "no crimp needed" issue.

I crimp everything I load. So does every manufacturer of Brass Cased Ammunition. Every factory loaded round no matter what it is used in is crimped.

There must be some good reason for this?

On a Cast Boolit the crimp serves several purposes.

Holds the boolit in place during handling and recoil, and prevents boolit setback during chambering. Also promotes chambering by removing the step between the Boolit and the Case Mouth.

Allows the powder charge to burn longer before the boolit starts to move which builds pressure to a higher level which promotes cleaner burning. Most all powders have a given pressure they are designed to burn most efficiently at or above. This pressure provides the most complete burn of the charge. IE less unburned powder left behind.

Closes the case flare.

Seals the case mouth against contamination.

Here's the deal,,,

Crimping a cartridge case is not a big deal, it takes a few seconds. Whereas in a Single Shot Rifle some of the points above are non issues, the ones that are a big deal are Burning Efficiency and Consistency in Bullet Release. These both contribute to accuracy.

I consider Crimping to be a significant part of assembling good quality ammunition. Doesn't matter what it will be shot in.

My .02.

Randy

Try actually shooting ammo with no crimp. It actually works just like ALL benchrest ammo.

[waco]

I'd like to load some big flat 400+grain meplate monsters!

[DocSavage]

I like the looks of that bullet, Store bought or home cast ? If home cast whose the block manufacturer.

[brass410]

Me like that chunky girl!!!! please do humour us more with info sir. Mould is it custom or factory? whats the weight of that fatty? I gotta find something like that!!!!

[waco]

I cast it myself. Accurate molds.http://accuratemolds.com/bullet_deta...=46-405V-D.png

[waco]

42gr of IMR3031 behind this boolit. sized to .460" in my 1895 Marlin 45-70
5 shot groups at 50 yards. Boolits weigh right at 405gr. Lubed with Lars 2500+
These are running around 1400fps. Very easy on the shooter.

[44Blam]

How about this guy:
Attachment 210389