I'm contemplating buying a new-in-the-box Miroku manufactured Winchester model 1873 in 45 Colt. I'm not interested in originality. I just have stumbled upon a MW with the features I like. CCH. Octagon 16 inch barrel. 45 Colt. Highly figured wood.
The reason I'm choosing 45 LC is because of the straight wall case which allows reloading on a progressive, etc. Also, I already have the cases, dies, powder, primers, etc. The bullets will be either plated SWC or jacketed hollow points.
Concerning the use, it will probably make a few trips a year to the range to punch paper or ring gongs. Otherwise, it'll be a safe queen.
Researching the 1873 toggle link action, I've read and have been given numerous caveats. Mostly concerning 1) the fragility of the action and 2) blowback into the receiver (from light loads fabricated to accommodate the fragile action).
Concerning the allowable pressures for the 1873, in a similarly themed thread on The High Road, the late RCModel said, "SAAMI spec for 45 Colt is 14,000 PSI. That is the only pressure suitable for use in any rifle with a toggle-link action."
I'm limiting the reloads to one of two powders: Hodgdon Titegroup and Winchester 231. Dunno which, yet. Yes, I know there are better powders, but given the current market, I'll stick to what I have.
But the Hodgdon website shows, for example, the starting load for a 300 grain bullet is 5.2 grains = 11,300 CUP. Maximum load is 5.8 grains = 12,900 CUP.
My question is, based upon RC's post (that 14,000 PSI is suitable for a toggle link action), then the above loads for the Titegroup data should pose no problem?
(However, given the advanced metallurgy available today, along with Miroku's computer enhanced fitment of parts, surely their 1873s are stronger than the original.)
That's question #1.
Question #2 has to do with complaints I've read about debris/soot blowback into the action because the cartridge case didn't "seal" in the chamber upon firing. I think it was suggested that this is especially acute with 45 Colt cases with thick walls like, Starline. (My cases are Winchester.)
Again, I'm inquiring solely about 45 Colt. And my loads will be about in the middle of "starting" and "maximum." I already know that the 44-40 cartridge produces no such phenomenon, but what about the 45 Colt? Is that an issue with modern smokeless powders?
I'm assuming the more pressure in the cartridge, the better the seal.
Finally, question #3. If I complete the purchase, I'll likely start with plated SWC bullets. I'll use those until I develop a familiarity with the rifle. I already have several lever rifles with more powerful cartridges, and a couple have tube mags, and I'm familiar with the caveats concerning pointed bullets.
But in the 1873, SWCs should pose no problem?
Thanks for your consideration.