Leading in modern .45 LC rifles?

[Squeaky Wheel]

I have some interest in buying (and reloading for) a new lever action rifle chambered for .45 Colt (something along the lines of a Rossi 92). I've read about all the potential problems with leading in old .45 Colt firearms (mostly centered on the SAA revolver). Would a brand new lever rifle in .45 Colt have the same set of leading headaches? Would it need to be "slugged" to find the exact diameter of barrel?

Also, I would probably be more interested in hand loading non-lead bullets. I understand that lead bullets help to avoid the problems with leading, but I'd like to refrain from lead bullets to reduce lead exposure from a health standpoint. For what it's worth, my interest in a .45 Colt lever rifle would be purely for fun at the range.

I have never hand loaded yet. I plan on buying the gear soon and will begin reloading for .45 ACP. Assuming that hand loading works out well for me, I'd like to expand to .45 Colt.

Thanks in advance for your opinions and suggestions!

Happy New Year!

 

[Dr. A]

It is true that leading problems can occur when reloading for any firearm shooting lead. Most leading occurs when velocity, lube and sizing parameters are adhered too. I reload for a half dozen 45 Colt firearms, and rarely if ever deal with leading. The Marlin 1894's in 45 Colt that I have handles my common loads with ease. Leading can easily be removed by a quick brushing of the bore with a copper brush with copper chore boy. After a time of shooting a well regulated load, my Marlins will get a sort of patina on the barrel, and become less and less likely to need cleaning. That will never occur shooting copper. When shooting or casting, I make sure not to contaminate my hands or face and eat. I have virtually no lead in my system after years with this hobby. Research is your friend. Go over to the castboolit forum or simply read up on the Lyman and Lee reloading manuals. 45 Colt can be reloaded without lead, but would be very expensive and more problematic. (Copper fouling)

 

[caduceus]

Try Shooter's Choice Lead Remover, it"ll work fine.

 

[DPris]

Currently have a Marlin & a Rossi in .45 Colt. Never had a problem with leading in either, or the Winchester I recently sold.
Denis