The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - .45-70 and 3FG

Moloch · August 19, 2012, 06:32 AM

Hi!

I'm fairly new to (re)loading blackpowder cartridges, my question is if I can use slightly compressed Swiss 3FG in the .45-70, instead of 2FG?

I shoot muzzleloaders and use 3FG in all of my rifles all the time, .54 and .58 included because it burns a LOT cleaner, ignites much better and gives 50% better accuracy than with the 2FG.
Especially when using soft lead conicals that need expansion to engage the rifling 3FG does a so much better job.

BUT, most people say that anything larger than 40 is 2FG territory only and I'm afraid of getting overpressure with 3FG in a huge BP cartridge pushing some 400-500 grainers.

Opinions?

Thanks!

August 19, 2012, 06:32 AM	#1
Moloch Senior Member Join Date: November 27, 2005 Posts: 1,419	.45-70 and 3FG Hi! I'm fairly new to (re)loading blackpowder cartridges, my question is if I can use slightly compressed Swiss 3FG in the .45-70, instead of 2FG? I shoot muzzleloaders and use 3FG in all of my rifles all the time, .54 and .58 included because it burns a LOT cleaner, ignites much better and gives 50% better accuracy than with the 2FG. Especially when using soft lead conicals that need expansion to engage the rifling 3FG does a so much better job. BUT, most people say that anything larger than 40 is 2FG territory only and I'm afraid of getting overpressure with 3FG in a huge BP cartridge pushing some 400-500 grainers. Opinions? Thanks!