Trapdoor Springfield Loads

**dogwarden** · July 27th, 2008, 06:21 PM

I would like some info on loads for a 1873 Trapdoor Springfield want to reload for a 405 round nose lead smokless powder 45/70 Thanks in advance.

**Kiski Cowboy** · July 27th, 2008, 07:07 PM

Are you loading for an original Trapdoor, or one of the current production ones?

If it's an original, I would only use blackpowder loads in it, as they were not proofed for the pressures that a smokeless round can produce. If it's one of the newer reproductions, then you'll be safe shooting smokeless rounds in it.

**dogwarden** · July 28th, 2008, 10:02 AM

It is a orignal 1873 45/70 trap door. I was looking to hand load for it. I think it may be safe with lead bullets and low pressure loads of smokeless powder. Thanks Dave

**Bama Man** · September 6th, 2008, 02:12 PM

My trapdoor rifle is also a 1873 model, 45/70.
I use the loading data that came with my Lee loading die set, and found it to be safe in mine, and very much cleaner than using the 70 grains of Goex I had been using. I also mold my own 405 grain bullets for it, and have had no problems.
I prefer the Reloader 7 loading data on the 405 grainers, as it shows the least amount of chamber pressure (15,800) with a speed of 1395 FPS.
Recommended load is 30.5 grn(min) to 34.0 grn(max).
Minimum over-all-length of 2.700 inches.
Cleanup is a breeze with Hoppes solvent, instead of scrubbing with dish detergent. I never have to soak my brass in vinegar either like I did when I used Goex black powder.
I hope this info is helpful.