MudBug wrote:That's pretty damn cool.
Just out of curiosity, what might the benefits of having a bolt action chambered in 450b over things like 45-70 or other similar rounds.
MB-
Because this is a hobby, a list of perceived benefits of this rifle vs a .45-70 bolt action would make little sense to any rational human. My gunsmith has been shaking his head in bewilderment ever since I showed up in his shop with my 450B reamer and headspace gauge. A true rifle loony will of course comprehend what's going on.
There's some history behind this rifle, obviously. I didn't plan the rifle; it sort of growed like Topsy. Except for the cartridge stamp, the external appearance hasn't changed in the 19 years since it was first assembled.
Some "benefit" talking points: Common surplus military actions like the Mauser and Springfield are easier to convert to the 450B than other 45 caliber cartridges, either 451 or 458. Because the case head has a diameter like the original, there's no necessity to play with the bolt face. Also, I don't think off-the-shelf lightweight jacketed bullets are available for the 45-70.
--Bob