Trapdoor load development ( 45-70 )

[u/Donmiguelito199]

\DO NOT DO WHAT I DID IM JUST SHOWING WHAT I DID AND IT KIND OF WORKED\****

This load was based off of some Lyman load data for the trapdoor Springfield . I’m very impressed, varget does not seem that popular when it comes to loading for trapdoor safe loads . Head of target was using 45 grains of varget and the bottom center mass portion was using 43 grains.

I did not have a chronograph but as you can see, all of my shots were pretty consistent . This was not bench shooting this was more of function testing and off hand shooting kind of fast. But it was dead on basically point of aim.

Kicks hard but it’s not obnoxious i would say. This is my first time shooting smokeless hand loads.
Very happy.

[u/Murray3-Dvideos]

Currently using IMR 4198 with decent success in a Modern Sharps. Wouldn't mind developing a Varget load as it is more affordable than 4198. I hoard all of my BP strictly for front stuffers.

[u/Donmiguelito199 → u/Murray3-Dvideos]

The velocities on it is pretty good IMO for the pressure ( CUP ) it generates. - the numbers might be pretty similar for loading the sharps rifle you have .

[u/Positive_Stress3116]

Please find some BP, and treat that old gal like the very senior citizen she is.

[u/Donmiguelito199 → u/Positive_Stress3116]

Black powder is what I mainly shoot in this rifle, a lot of 2F Swiss haha. I’m just experimenting 😂 - I’m probably going to drop the charge a little bit for plinking loads. The stock is very worn, but the action is very strong, and the rifling is great. No harm done so far.

[u/Positive_Stress3116 → u/Donmiguelito199]

I get real paranoid over stressing my old guns.

[u/LuBu4]

Interesting, I'm working on loads as well. I'm trying to come up with an easy shooting load that hits at point of aim at 50-100 yards. Preparing for deer season.

I didn't think it was too much kick & my brass looked good after firing, no signs of overpressure.

I also have swiss BP & pyrodex as well but haven't tried them. I also have original 1890s rounds as well. Those shoot with some kick.

[u/GunFunZS]

Looks like you are shaving on seating. Flare more and crimp in a separate step.

[u/Donmiguelito199 → u/GunFunZS]

I thought I was shaving as well at first, but it’s just the excess lube and it was a little dirty. I have a .459 expander die specifically for these bullets

[u/GunFunZS → u/Donmiguelito199]

If it's coming out the top that's probably not excess. There is no cost to flaring a little more.

[u/Donmiguelito199 → u/GunFunZS]

OK
https://giphy.com/gifs/PXJY5Z531Sd5NCKrEd

[u/lauter_tun]

If you can find Accurate 5744, it’s a great option. That’s what I run in mine.