"Trapdoor" Ammo "test load"

[Glamis]

I have a vary nice Trapdoor in 45-70 that has not be fired in I would say 50+ years. I have had the gun looked at by 3 smiths in orange county and all think the gun is more then safe to shoot. What I'm looking for is a light test load or cowboy ammo to test out the gun. What would be a good off the shelf ammo?

[Tom-ADC]

If you were closer I have two boxes of BP 405 gr for Trapdoors one box sealed the other I peeked in.

That was messy go here they list a bunch of data for trapdoors I like cast bullets around 405 grains.

http://data.hodgdon.com/main_menu.asp

[TRAP55]

45/70 factory loads as a rule, are loaded for use in a Trapdoor. Boxes will usually say "For all Firearms". Ammo like Buffalo Bore and Hornady LEVERevolution will grenade your rifle. Remington loads a low recoil round, and I think it's TenX? that loads smokeless and BP rounds for the Trapdoor.

[Tom-ADC]

I should add the 45-70 is very easy to load for.

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Ultramax-Bulk-Ammo-with-Dry-Storage-Box/740722.uts

[Glamis]

cool thanks for the info

[Tom-ADC]

I was just looking at Hodgdons website for 45-70 data and see they list a few loads for Trailboss powder I shot that in my 45LC for light cowboy loads but will have to put some 405 gr 45-70 up with it I have three 45-70 rifles but these will be for my trapdoor and sharps.

[TRAP55]

Glamis, Dutch3 here in the C&R forum loads for his Trapdoors, I'm sure he's got some pet loads he'd share. Tom mentioned Trailboss powder, best thing that ever happened for black powder cartridge shooters.
I've been using it in my .32/40 Winchester HiWall, and my Mosins with cast bullets. Makes great subsonic and low recoil loads. No need for gas checks on cast bullets either. You can stuff a case full, compress it with a seated bullet, and still won't come close to the maximum chamber pressures. And no BP mess to clean up after.