1873 Trapdoor .45-70 HELP Please

[JC Smith]

I have two antique .45-70s, a beat up Winchester Hotchkiss and a very nice Trapdoor Springfield. Only problem is the Hotchkiss shoots great and the Trapdoor keyholes with storebought classic 405 gr. lead bullets. I suspect an oversize bore is the problem but I don't have bullet casting equipment or even a slug of lead. Is there anyone casting oversize bullets for these old guns? I've been reloading since 1968 but I don't want to get into bullet casting at this point. Don't have room for it even if I did. Thanks - JC

[JC Smith]

Thanks for the suggestions. The bore looks good and I have cleaned it well. Rifling isn't pristine but it's not bad and looks better than the Hotchkiss. I'll see what the folks at Trapdoors have to say. Thanks again - JC

['ol shooter]

Are you sure it's not a .50 cal? Trapdoors Galore shows .50's from 1865 to 1870, but you might have a re-barreled .45 in .50. Better make sure. If it turns out it's just a barrel issue, check with Trapdoors Galore for a replacement.

http://www.trapdoors.com/

[Fordtrucks]

U don't need to cast to slug the bore. Just use a fishing sinker of the appropriate size from the Walmart shelf and then u at least know what ur bore size is.

I'm sure Oregan Trail or someone has oversized or can sell oversized boolits.

[pacrat]

Chunk of paper towel a few inches down bore from muzzle. 50 cent tin coffee cup from thrift store. Melt lead outside on BBQ or camp stove. Pour lead in muzzle. Throw cup away. You have now slugged your bore.