45-70 moderate load: 2400 v. 5744 matchup

[huntinlever]

I've not quite seen the topic directly addressed, but in a bit of a quandary as to committing to 8 lbs of 2400, when no 1 lbs "sample" is available to test load before committing fully.

I have a pound each of IMR 4198 and Accurate 5744. Alliant 2400 is available but only in 8 lbs jugs.

For 45-70 guide gun with 405 WFNGC at moderate load of 1350-1450 fps. Discuss comparative merits or downsides of 2400 v. 5744. Thanks.

[BLAHUT]

Did not have a chance to try 2400, I use a Lee 515 gr, fp, pure lead with 27grs of 5744 in my guide gun, very accurate.

[huntinlever]

Thanks Blahut. Just a check given the 5744 is so much more expensive than the 2400, wondering if it is worth the difference.

[pworley1]

I have had better results with 5744.

[huntinlever]

I have had better results with 5744.

Thanks, good to know. Separate question, but:

I'm thinking of doing incremental 0.3 grain steps over 405 WFNGC 26.1 - 30.6 grains 5744 for estimated 1330-1470 fps, 3 shots per string. I used to do 5 shots but think until I dial it in better, that's a waste. Reasonable?

And you do (and others) use a filler for this range of pressure/boolit weight/charge?

[Ford SD]

I've not quite seen the topic directly addressed, but in a bit of a quandary as to committing to 8 lbs of 2400, when no 1 lbs "sample" is available to test load before committing fully.

I have a pound each of IMR 4198 and Accurate 5744. Alliant 2400 is available but only in 8 lbs jugs.

For 45-70 guide gun with 405 WFNGC at moderate load of 1350-1450 fps. Discuss comparative merits or downsides of 2400 v. 5744. Thanks.

for me i would pick up the 2400 I have used it in other rifle cals

the 5744 When I have used it in reduced rifle loads I have had to use dacron to get the SD & ES to a lower (better #)

I keep some of the black Plastic Powder bottles, With 8 lb you could do some trading with your friends

[BLAHUT]

Thanks, good to know. Separate question, but:

I'm thinking of doing incremental 0.3 grain steps over 405 WFNGC 26.1 - 30.6 grains 5744 for estimated 1330-1470 fps, 3 shots per string. I used to do 5 shots but think until I dial it in better, that's a waste. Reasonable?

And you do (and others) use a filler for this range of pressure/boolit weight/charge?

The more or greater amount you include in your strings the better your feedback. I use 10 shots per string and over a coronagraph. I do not guess. In my 27 gr load with 5744 with a 515 gr bullet I use no filler or wading, just a mag primer. When I get close, I use .01 grs incremental to get the accuracy, on target and across the coronagraph ? Try both powder and see what works best for you ? Sell the rest.

[stubshaft]

I'm sure 5744 is a good powder, but I cannot get any in my neck of the woods. I have used and will continue to use 2400 in a wide variety of cartridges from 22 K-Hornet to 458 Win. Mag.. It has always performed for me and I do not want to reinvent the wheel.

[15meter]

Not an answer to your question, but this thread may tip you towards buying the 2400 if it's a good price.

If you load for any of the 30ish caliber milsurps, 2400 works great.

https://castboolits.gunloads.com/sho...Rifles-Article

And I use a bunch of 5744, just try and limit it to the cartridges that need it because of price and availability.

[Sgt H]

I load a lot of 45-70 rounds and primarily use 3 powders- Unique, 2400 and 5744. Have very good results with all three for accuracy. Comparing 2400 and 5744, the 2400 requires 3-4 grains less powder to achieve the same velocity as 5744 in the 45-70. The 2400 also burns cleaner, 5744 is known for leaving unburned grains at lower pressures. 22-24 grains of 2400 under a 400-500 grain boolit is a classic load for the 45-70 and pretty much duplicates the original BP loads. Usually provides good accuracy, just adjust the charge in that range to find the sweet spot for your rifle. The 4198 is good if you feel the need to make up some T-Rex loads but I have found it to have extreme velocity spreads loaded down to trapdoor velocity levels.

[huntinlever]

OK, thanks you guys this is great information. Just cast my first 405's with the new mold and I will opt for a 2400 v. 5744 comparison over the 4198 loader lighter - Sgt that makes complete sense given my groups tightened only after approaching high 30's w/ the 4198 over the 425 (my accuracy load was 39.7 grains). On the hunt for some 2400. And likely using filler for the first time.

Much appreciated.