mextraveller
September 14, 2005, 11:37 AM
I have done a search on this topic both here and on the internet, so excuse me if this repeats things already covered. I'm considering a new BFR 45-70 w/ the 10-inch barrel for a hunting revolver. I've read opinions/reviews on this gun ranging from describing the recoil as mild & managable to brutal with massive muzzle blast (depending on what's loaded in the chamber, of course). I will be hunting various types of deer and hogs, probably nothing bigger than an elk or a medium-sized bear (ever). I really like the idea of having ample power in reserve without resorting to a high-pressure load (ala .454 Casull, Linebaughs, etc.). I know I could get the job done well with either a .44 magnum or a .45 colt heavy load, but the 45-70 is really what I am interested in.
1) With a 300-350 grain bullet & an appropiate medium-level load, is this a "shootable gun"? Suitable for practice sessions without undue stress on the body? I'm not interested in high-end ammo (Buffalo Bore, Garrett, etc. because of the recoil). I'm talking handloads designed for a 10-inch barrel & medium weight game.
2) Is there a way to load the 45-70 cartridge to make it more efficient when shot through a revolver-length barrel, as well as keeping recoil managable? I've read of people using less powder and packing the unused space in the cartridge with some type of filler material/wadding. I fully expect some noticeable & powerful recoil, I just don't want it on the extreme upper level of what's possible. Can the 45-70 be shot through a short barrel in a real world woods hunting scenario like a lighter caliber pistol? If and when I get a BFR, I'll post some pics here.....
Thanks in advance.
1) With a 300-350 grain bullet & an appropiate medium-level load, is this a "shootable gun"? Suitable for practice sessions without undue stress on the body? I'm not interested in high-end ammo (Buffalo Bore, Garrett, etc. because of the recoil). I'm talking handloads designed for a 10-inch barrel & medium weight game.
2) Is there a way to load the 45-70 cartridge to make it more efficient when shot through a revolver-length barrel, as well as keeping recoil managable? I've read of people using less powder and packing the unused space in the cartridge with some type of filler material/wadding. I fully expect some noticeable & powerful recoil, I just don't want it on the extreme upper level of what's possible. Can the 45-70 be shot through a short barrel in a real world woods hunting scenario like a lighter caliber pistol? If and when I get a BFR, I'll post some pics here.....
Thanks in advance.