Home Forums Lever Action Central Big Bore Levers what mold for marlin 1895 45/70?

I use a 325 gr. gc'ed, Kieth dezign, by Rapine. Sized, checked and lubed, it wieghs 333 gr. . Loaded with 57 gr. of AA2520, I get 1907fps, out of my Marlin FTX, and a smidgen less thru my wifes Handi. More then adequate for anything in my neck of the woods!
Twink

http://www.neihandtools.com/catalog/index.html
I found this bullet to be especially accurate in my marlin 45/70 over 45 grains oF IMR 4198, Im not sure what velocity youll get in your rifle but cast from 95% wheel weights and 5% tin,well lubed its accurate,and it shoots thru deer,hogs and elk real well with expected results..very dead game

http://www.handloads.com/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=45-70&Weight=All&type=rifle&Source

Nice links. Thanks.

My 1895G LOVES both of these bullets:





Lee .457 405 Grain Round Flat Nose Double Cavity Mold

LEE MOLD D/C 457-405F








Lee .457 340 Grain Round Flat Nose Double Cavity Mold

LEE MOLD D/C 457-340F

I'll add two things to this discussion:

(1) Slug your bore. Many Marlins, especially guide guns, won't shoot a plain base bullet worth a hoot unless it is .460". I own one of those. And you don't need gas checks.

(2) I think you'll get better terminal performance with a lead-tin bullet (no antimony) - something with a BHN of 15 or less. I know everyone likes those super hard bullets, but they are 1/2" hole punchers. Unless you are hunting armor-plated Grizzlies, a deforming bullet will work better. My opinion of course.

And a third thing for free - you can't flatten the trajectory of the 45-70, so no need to push them. 1400fps will kill an Elk just as dead as 1900fps.

Have fun!

What bullet lube are you guys using?
I have SPG and DGL for the BPCR stuff.

What he said!

I got one of Ranch Dog Molds before he went out of business

I believe it was the 425 grain mold. With wheel weights it drops at 430 with GC, using Alox (Mule snot)/Johnson paste wax mix, tumble lube. 4198 @ 1900 fps with no leading an excellent accuracy.
On a deers shoulder bullet size entrance with 1 inch exit hole. Deer act as if they were hit with Thor's hammer. Ones I've hit don't even hardly kick.