The Buffalo Classic will handle at least Marlin level loads, and even a bit higher than that. They aren't as strong as a Ruger #1, but are much stronger than a trap door Springfield. Hot loads are not a pleasant experience through those things though. The curved metal butt, and relatively light weight will get your attention even with blackpowder equivalent loads.
I think the rifle in question is the break open single shot on the shotgun frame, right? If so, I would be cautious with heavier loads. The shotgun receiver, color case hardened, is cast iron and is rated for shotgun pressures of less than 20,000 psi. The rifle receiver, blued, is steel and is good for full pressure, 55,000 psi or so. As already stated, the gun will take more than most shooters will.
The Buffalo Classic is built on the steel rifle frame, the same frame used for H&R's 30/06 and 308. Marlin loads are ok, but shooting them will NOT be a pleasant experience.
The H&R single shot break open frames are similar to, but not identical to their single shot break open shotgun frames. Currently, the heaviest caliber listed in their inventory is .30-06. According to the manual, the Buffalo Classic will handle all ammunition that "meets SAAMI and ANSI standards." I would load the rifle accordingly.
The H&R SB2 receiver is proofed to 65,000 psi. The SB2 receiver is used for the 308, 30-06, and S&W 500. There are lunatic recoil junkies shooting 700 gr bullets from Buffalo Classics reamed to 45-120. You can shoot 45-70 +P ammo in the Buffalo Classic. It will be unpleasant.
Saw a .44 Magnum version on GunsAmerica for $280 or so.
Yes, I see no reason to spend big bucks on such a gun.
Just a short, light, and powerful woods gun.
Oh, and on GA they had a pre-safety angle eject trapped Winchester in .44 Magnum. 800 bucks but loaded with hot .44 Special loads I bet it would be a dandy. 16.5 inch barrel. Just add a Skinner Sight!
I wouldn't cut the barrel down on a Buffalo Classic, it balances real well with the long barrel. If you want a short gun, H&R makes a short 45/70 with a conventional stock and recoil pad, and it's cheaper to boot. Or you can get a barrel fitted at the factory for a very reasonable price if you already have an appropriated Handi rifle frame.
Mine is one of the original Wesson & Harrington Buffalo Classics and it will easily handle the same loads as my Marlin 1895G Guide Gun. The felt recoil is stiffer with the BC than with the Guide Gun. I typically shoot either 405gr hard cast lead or 300 gr JSPs through the BC but typically shoot 405gr JSPs through the Guide Gun. I really like both rifles but the felt recoil (at least to me) is less with the Guide Gun, even though the Guide Gun has an 18" barrel compared to the 32" barrel on the Buffalo Classic.
Thanks but .....ah....no. While I enjoy shooting guns that let you know something big happened when you pull the trigger, the BC is plenty frisky with 405gr at 1800 or so. And I like my clavicles where they are.
But if I ever run across a reasonably priced 45-70 Contender pistol barrel, it's "game on"!
Had one. Loaded for the 73 level with Lyman 457124 at 370 grain. Shot it. Sold it. And I'm not particularly recoil sensitive. Steel, narrow butt, fairly light, unpleasant. I can shoot a 250 bird program in an afternoon, sight in my slug gun with ten to fifteen rounds, but I didn't enjoy that one much.
I still would love to have a friends Encore 15" 460 Weatherby rig I got to shoot a few times.
now that the stars are starting to align for the wife and I however I might just get me one of those HR classics...I do love my single shots.
I have been looking at lee and lyman and their 450-500 grain moulds...found a pointed RN 500 grain from lee that looks interesting... Would make for some fun shooting gongs at a few yards.
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