I have a few 45-70's, and I cast my own bullets for the rifles.
Personally I like the 405 grain bullet. And I normally shoot them between 1200 to 1600 fps. Depending on which rifle.
I use straight WW for these bullets. Expansion on deer is fantastic. They hit like a hammer. I prefer them well over the 300 grain bullet. The 45-70 is meant to be big and slow. Not small and fast.
IMO leading is more a function of improper sizing rather than alloy content. Especially in the velocities you are talking about. And I do not like the hard alloys for hunting with a 45-70 at 1200-1600 fps.
Slug your bore and get a properly sized bullet. I am sure it will work out. Tom.
