Loading for original U.S. Springfield 1873 Trapdoor

[Lambo]

It was passed on to me through my father some time back. It's the Carbine version in 45-70 and is missing several parts. I was working a Gun Show this weekend and another Vendor had all the (Originals) but the Rear Sight. I must add these parts are costly! It will be functional soon and would like to load my own ammo and put it to the test. Looking for load Data for the 405gr cast lead bullet using smokeless powder.

 

[Jim Watson]

The best resource on loading and shooting the .45-70 is, strangely enough,
“Loading Cartridges For The Original .45-70 Springfield Rifle and Carbine” by J. S. and Pat Wolf
It emphasizes black powder but does discuss nitro loads light enough for the old guns.

Most good manuals have some data for .45-70 in a Trapdoor section. Lyman for sure.

An original rear sight is going to be very expensive. A Pedersoli replica sight is $75 which is about half or one third the price of an original.
http://www.trapdoors.com/spareparts/spareparts.htm
https://www.vtigunparts.com/ab22400...ts.asp?id=23&cat=Springfield+Trapdoor+Carbine