45-70 info needed

[fraz]

Should I lube 45-70 cases before decapping/sizing? using hornady 3-die set. I've loaded pistol rounds with carbide dies but I'm not sure about the almost-straight-walled rifle brass. Thanks, Fraz

[22popnsplat]

I dont think its Carbide , needs lube . without looking it up but it seems to me that the 45-70 has a slight taper ? . I often lightly lube straight walled pistol cases in carbide dies as it makes it easier to size them .

[Asherdan]

Yes, lube it lightly. The case has a slight taper and they do not make a carbide set that I'm aware of. No lube or a poor lube will stick the case real well.

[fraz]

Cool. Thanks for the quick replies guys!

[Snakebite4767]

I've loaded a ton of 45-70 for everything from Goverment Springfields (Trapdoors) to Siamese Mausers. A little lube never hurts, just remember to wipe it off when you are done. Depending what gun you are using, WATCH YOUR PRESSURES. The new guns... like my Marlin Lever gun 45-70 using the 336 type action can take a very stout round, but any of the Old Style guns... Falling Blocks, Rolling Blocks, Trapdoors etc, etc, are NOT made to handle the pressures that Smokeless powder can generate. Even a very light load of Smokeless Powder has a pressure spike at the front of the burn which greatly exceeds anything developed with Black Powder. That spike will eventually stretch things, and can easily turn a nice old gun into a peice of junk.... and maybe you with it......just be careful.

Snakebite

[dragon7]

Carbide dies or not always lube. Your arm will thank you.