How to Load Ammunition for Alexander Henry Double Rifle 450 3 1/4" Black Powder Express

Published on February 26, 2021
Duration: 8:17

This video details the meticulous process of hand-loading ammunition for a historical Alexander Henry Double Rifle chambered in .450 3 1/4" Black Powder Express. It covers casting 300-grain bullets, pan-lubing with SPG, case preparation, loading 120 grains of Goex 2FG black powder, and seating bullets with a firm crimp. The tutorial also includes a demonstration of repairing the rifle's rear sight with ivory inlay, showcasing advanced gunsmithing skills.

Quick Summary

Reloading for the Alexander Henry .450 3 1/4" Black Powder Express involves casting 300-grain, .458 diameter bullets and using 120 grains of Goex 2FG black powder. Proper 'pan lubing' with SPG lubricant is crucial for managing black powder fouling and reducing leading.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Alexander Henry Rifle History
  2. 00:35Rifle Features: Jones Underlever & Damascus Barrels
  3. 01:41Technical Specs: .450 3 1/4" BPE & Henry Rifling
  4. 02:43Bullet Casting & Component Sourcing
  5. 03:35Bullet Lubrication: Pan Lubing Technique
  6. 04:53Case Prep & Priming for Black Powder
  7. 05:32Loading Black Powder & Wads
  8. 06:18Seating & Crimping Bullets
  9. 06:38Gunsmithing: Rear Sight Ivory Inlay Repair
  10. 07:55Range Testing & Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications for reloading the Alexander Henry .450 3 1/4" Black Powder Express rifle?

The rifle has a 1 in 38-inch twist rate. Recommended reloading involves casting 300-grain, .458 diameter bullets from a 20:1 lead-tin alloy, using 120 grains of Goex 2FG black powder, and ensuring a firm crimp.

How is bullet lubrication performed for black powder cartridges?

The 'pan lubing' technique is demonstrated, using SPG beeswax-based lubricant. This method fills the bullet's grease grooves, which is essential for reducing leading and keeping black powder fouling soft for better accuracy.

What steps are involved in preparing cases and loading black powder for this rifle?

Case mouths are belled to prevent bullet damage. Federal Large Magnum Rifle primers are used. A drop tube loads 120 grains of Goex 2FG black powder for density, followed by a thin fiber wad to protect the bullet base.

Can you explain the sight repair shown in the video?

Yes, a missing ivory inlay on the rear sight was meticulously repaired. Salvaged piano keys were used, carefully measured, cut, and filed to precisely fit the dovetail, restoring the sight's functionality.

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