Discussion Forums

Michael Evartt

I’ve been a long time reader but this is my first technical post. I recently got into the reloading game and hope to get some help. I am reloading for an 1895 Marlin GBL with 18.5” barrel. Without going too in depth, I did some initial load development with Hornady 300 gr HP, Federal once fired brass (factory loads), WLR primers, seated at 2.55” COAL with charges of H4198 from 51 to 55 grains. My shooting setup is less than ideal but I’ve noticed better accuracy as my powder charges have increased. At 54 gr (best accuracy so far) I had a muzzle velocity average of 2173 FPS (approx 40-50 FPS per grain increase in powder). This is about expected from 24” barrel Hodgdon load data. I plan to proceed load development with caution but I am concerned that my velocity from a 18” barrel is roughly equivalent to 24” barrel velocity. As a new reloader, should I expect to stop at approximately 2250-2300 FPS in my short barrel? I have not seen any pressure signs but have read that the 45-70 Marlin doesn’t show traditional pressure signs at roughly 40K CUP. I’ve followed advice from Nathan’s reloading book but am cautious due to the variation in 1895 Lever Action reloading data. Any advice is greatly appreciated.