Quote:
Originally Posted by steveno
I have shot two of Elmer's memorial loads.
1. I shot his 44 special load in a Charter Arms Bulldog and it was absolutely miserable. if it was shot in anything other than a Ruger it was too hot.
2. one of his favorite loads in the 45-70 was the 405 grain soft point and 3031. I think it was 56 grains but could have been 54. it was also very brutal in a Ruger #1S. I couldn't believe he was shooting them in an 1886 Winchester. the Winchester is a strong rifle but not that strong. nobody will help you shoot them up.
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Keith's old .45-70 load was a 400 to 405 gr. jacketed bullet over 53.0 grains of IMR3031.
Do NOT use this load.
I made a boxful about 30 years ago, for use in my 1977-made Marlin 1895. After a few (punishing) shots, I checked the cases: flattened primers, bulged head ahead of the rim -- sure signs of over-pressure.
Like yourself, I couldn't believe he was using this load in 1886 Winchesters.
I consider 50 grs. of IMR3031 under a 405 gr. jacketed bullet to be MAXIMUM in my Marlin. The Lyman No. 48 manual lists 51.5 as maximum. Either load, work up to it carefully from 45 grains.
Frankly, there is nothing to be gained by such action-straining loads. It's a .45-caliber bullet, weighing nearly an ounce! 19th century hunters were taking down grizzlies and bison with 400-500 gr. lead bullets at 1,000 to 1,200 fps.
Your rifle and shoulder will thank you.