The .50-70 Government cartridge, a relic of the American Old West and a testament to robust firepower, continues to fascinate and challenge reloaders today. Finding the right reloading dies for this powerful round is crucial for consistent accuracy and safety. This guide dives deep into the world of 50-70 reloading dies, covering everything from choosing the right set to mastering the reloading process.
Understanding Your Needs: Choosing the Right 50-70 Reloading Dies
Before jumping into specific brands, it’s essential to understand your reloading needs and preferences. Several factors influence die selection:
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Type of Press: Are you using a single-stage, progressive, or turret press? This dictates the type of die you'll need (e.g., standard, or specific versions designed for progressive presses).
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Case Preparation: Do you prefer to resize your cases fully, or do you need dies for neck sizing only? Consider whether you need a sizing die with an expander ball integrated or separate components.
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Budget: Reloading dies range in price, reflecting differences in materials and features. Establish a budget beforehand.
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Brand Reputation: Certain brands are known for their quality and precision. Research reviews and recommendations before investing.
Top Brands and Die Sets for 50-70 Government Reloading
While many manufacturers produce reloading dies, some stand out for their quality and performance with the .50-70 Government cartridge:
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RCBS: RCBS consistently delivers high-quality dies known for their precision and durability. Their 50-70 dies are a popular choice among reloaders.
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Lee Precision: Lee offers more budget-friendly options without sacrificing overall performance. Their dies are a great entry point for beginners.
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Hornady: Hornady is a reputable brand known for its innovation and precision. Their dies are often favored by experienced reloaders.
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Redding: Redding produces top-of-the-line precision dies often used for competition shooting, reflecting their higher price point.
Note: When purchasing, always verify the die set is specifically designed for the .50-70 Government cartridge. Slight variations in dimensions between different .50 caliber cartridges can lead to significant problems.
Essential Components of a Complete 50-70 Reloading Die Set
A standard 50-70 reloading die set typically includes:
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Sizing Die: Resizes the case to the correct dimensions.
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Powder Measure: Accurately dispenses the correct amount of powder into each case. (Often sold separately).
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Seating Die: Seats the bullet into the case.
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Crimping Die: Crimps the case mouth to securely hold the bullet in place. (Often included or sold separately depending on the set).
Mastering the 50-70 Reloading Process: Tips and Techniques
Reloading the .50-70 Government cartridge requires precision and attention to detail. Safety should always be the paramount concern. Here are some key considerations:
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Proper Case Preparation: Thorough cleaning and inspection of cases before reloading are essential.
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Accurate Powder Measurement: Consistent powder charges are crucial for safe and accurate shooting. Use a reliable powder measure and double-check each charge.
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Bullet Seating Depth: Proper bullet seating depth directly impacts accuracy. Consult your reloading manual for recommended seating depths.
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Crimp Consistency: A proper crimp ensures the bullet is securely held in place and prevents problems during firing.
Conclusion: Precision and Safety with 50-70 Reloading Dies
Reloading .50-70 Government ammunition can be a rewarding experience, allowing for customization and cost savings. Choosing the right dies from a reputable manufacturer and following safe reloading practices is essential for success. Remember always consult your reloading manual for specific instructions and load data for your chosen components. Happy reloading!