44-40 reloading - smokeles powder

scottlad29

I have a Winchester model 1873, manufactured in 1881, and want to do some reloading using smokeless powder. My concern is that medium or high compression loads might damage the rifle. I intend to use 200 gr bullets. What would be some recommended powders and powder loads to fire safely in the rifle?

Hawk Carse

Trail Boss is pretty mild when used as recommended, and fills the case well. Data at:
http://www.imrpowder.com/data/handgun/trailboss-feb2005.php

Note that velocities are for pistol length barrels, your rifle will go higher.

CapnMidnight

+1 for the TrailBoss.
W.D.

eastbank

i use imr 4227 in my 38-40 with the 180 cast bullet- 15grs 4227 and it shoots super. it works well in the 44-40 with 200gr cast bullets too. eastbank.

longspur rider

I use 5.5 gr. of hogdon clays. Burns clean & is not overpowering by any means.

mazo kid

5744 is a bulky powder that is sometimes used for blackpowder equivalent loads. Check a reloading manual for loads in your '73.

pablo44

I use 8 to 8.5 gr.Unique behind RCBS 200FN cast and sized to .429(that is the best 44/40 bullet I've tried)for my old tired '73 and it shoots like a champ.Use same in my 92 win.,Cim.66,and Cim.henry.

v35

Check to see if you can chamber a bullet having a band outside the case
or you may be stuck using the original style bullet and black or Pyrodex powder to support bullets from being pushed into the case while in the magazine.
My Colt Lightning rifle wont accept other than original profile bullets.

eastbank

my 44-40 rem. 14 1/2 carbine shoots 200 gr bullets well with 15grs imr 4227, i have shot heaveyier charges with no problem,but why beat the gun up. eastbank.