Author Topic: Winchester '73 and Hennry 1860 in 45 colt? (Read 515 times)

Will52100 · « **on:** August 14, 2003, 03:01:24 PM »

This may seem like a stupid question, but I've always wanted a Hennry Iron frame or 73' Winchester. I would primarily use it for plinking, but would also want to be able to hunt whitetail with it. Now I know the 45 colt is now where near as powerfull as the 45/70, but what would the max efective range be? I do most of my hunting from 50-150 yards, with the ocasionall shot up to 300 yards being the longest posible.

Thanks

John Traveler · « **Reply #1 on:** August 15, 2003, 04:41:21 AM »

Please remember that those early lever-action repeaters (1860 Henry, 1866 & 1873 Winchester, etc) use a prop-up link system to lock the breech. They were blackpowder cartridge designs, and such are suitable only for factory-duplication loads. That would limit you to about 900 fps with a 255 grain lead bullet.

I personally would limit a shot at deer-sized game to under 50 or 60 yards. Closer is even better. Some states eliminate pisto-sized cartridges based on factory muzzle energy levels.

NO, the .45 Colt load in factory velocity format is NOT a .45-70 and can not be compared to it.

HTH
John

Will52100 · « **Reply #2 on:** August 15, 2003, 08:03:35 AM »

Thanks, I kinda figured that, shame the 73 is'nt chambered for 45/70 or even 30/30. Oh well I was debating on a 45/70 sharps also.

RB Rooson · « **Reply #3 on:** August 15, 2003, 10:17:35 AM »

The '73 Winchester......just my opinion!

ButlerFord45 · « **Reply #4 on:** August 16, 2003, 05:15:27 AM »

Actually, it is, kind of, it's the '76 winchester, basicaly a 73 with a longer elevator. A little on the expensive side for a hunting rifle, but if I had one, there's no doubt in my mind, I'd take it on a "gentle" hunting trip or two.