Reloading 38-40

[choprzrul]

Ok, so a customer of mine and I get in a gun conversation. He has an inherited 1873 in 38-40 he says and about 300 brass. He asks me if it is possible to reload the brass and if I knew anyone who could help. I didn't volunteer for several reasons, but now I am curious. If the rifle was originally for black powder, can it now be reloaded with reduced load smokeless? Can a person reload metallic cartridges SAFELY with black powder?

[gunboat]

Yes , It can be reloaded with smokeless loads -- cast or jacketed -2400, 4227, and unique seem to be powders of choice. It is an easy case to reload. Stay on the light side with the 73 as the toggle action is not as strong as the marlins and win 92. - Also be mindful that "old" 38-40 cases can be balloon head and are also weak -- black powder can be used but is a mess in the 73 -- Safely use BP? , sure, why not? Probably use FF. Cases will likely stain as well. New 44/40 cases can be reformed if needed -
I probaly have a few cast/jacketed bullets left .401 dia. -- my ha-penny

[bruceflinch]

I would not load smokeless powder rounds to shoot in a gun designed to shoot black powder!

Check out a reloading manual!

[gunboat]

Henny -Penny ---- A very foolish statement, not supported by fact -

There are many weapons fired every day originally design for black powder -

Ammo makers provide smokeless ammo for these weapons - for example
45/70 trapdoors -- 38/40-44/40-45colt colt single actions and several winchester and marlin models -- 38/55 & 32/40 winchester hi-walls
the list is endless -