How long can a Henry 45-70 cartridge be.

[173ABN]

I want to reload 45-70. I know that cartridges can only be so long to fit a lever action. What bullet is the right length. I have a store bought cartridge that matches length of what Lee reloading book states at 2.550.".

 

[Bill K]

Length of the cartridge and bullet used is gaged by how deep you seat the bullet with your sizing die. Most any bullet designed for the 45-70, cast or factory will work. You are going to have to find out what your rifle likes best, as to the bullet or bullets you buy and use.
Only testing and working loads up in YOUR rifle will tell you that.

 

[Just Say Moe]

The crimping groove in your bullet - if it has one - will most likely be on an acceptable COL. The crimping groove should be in the same approximate location for most bullets. Longer bullets have more bullet behind the groove and stick farther into the case like Bill above said. Different weight bullets are the same *approximate* over all length in the ammo.