Rossi 45-70 rio grande reloads

[hundy]

I just purchased a Rossi Rio Grande 45-70.
In my Lyman reloading book it has reloads for 1873 springfield, 1886 Winchester, 1895 marlin, and Ruger No. 1 and No. 3.
Just curious if anyone knows what category the Rossi falls under. I was leaning towards the 1873 springfield. But I am not sure. I do not have the rifle or instructions as of yet, I pick it up on the 22nd.

Thank you

Jay

[Tom-ADC]

I'd start with the Springfield also then move up to the 1886 Winchester loads not sure what your rifle will weigh but remember big heavy bullets equal recoil, 405 gr max, the heavier may not cycle anyway. I keep them mild in my 1895 Marlin, then when I want to shoot the 500+ grain bullets I shoot my Sharps its right at 10 pounds.

[rm1911]

Get some trail boss. Cast or jacketed. More fun than should be legally allowed.

Another option is cast bullets and the 10gr unique load. In fact with cast bullets most fast burning pistol powders will work. Small charges to start. Like 5-6 gr.

Velocity won't be great but it allows for plenty of cheap fun and great practice. Can always bump up loads for hunting or whatever.

[Tom-ADC]

I've tried the Unique data but had forgotten about Trail Boss great powder for this, I have also used Varget & 3031. I do load Trail Boss BTW.

[CalTeacher]

14gr of Unique under a 405gr bullet runs around 1200fps in my Marlin 1895 GBL

[Blackhawk1]

Rossi Rio Grande 45-70

I have had mine for about a month if you pick up Hodgdon annual that comes out once a year it has loads that are not in the regular manuals. powders like 4064, i would like to try Trail Boss but thats hard to find here sort of like flying pigs.A good source is HANDLOADER ammunition reloading journal (magazine) they seem to always have something for the 45-70. I know the 300 and 350 bullets will fit but not about the 405grs.

[Sosoomi]

I haven't looked up the load but H4895 will let you reduce loads to 60%. Look up Hodgdon reduced loads. Makes plinking 30-30 a lot of fun....probably 45-70 as well..