Hey fellas,
I'm finally able to buy my first BPCR. I've narrowed it down to two. Both Pedersoli's, both 45-70, and both about the same price. I will be mainly using for steel targets, and wanting to get into long range. Will not be in sanctions events, so not concerned with the 12 or 10 pound limit.
Also, I am not new to the 45-70. I have been taking deer and huge hogs with a Marlin 1895 for the last 30 years.
First rifle is the 1877 long range Sharps. Half round 32" barrel, weighing little over 10 lbs. Second rifle is the John Bodine with 34" full octagon, weighing closer to 13 lbs. I plan on reloading and shooting heavy cast in the 500 to 600 grain range. Will also be using both black and smokeless powders.
Now the two main questions. Does one have a advantage over the other, and does two inches in barrel length make much of a difference. Also, is there a big difference in recoil when shooting off sticks, between a 10 and 13 lb rifle. Although I don't plan on a lot of off hand shooting at 63 years old, I know the difference in weight would be a lot different freehand.
Thanks guys
Blacky