oneatatime wrote on Mar 28
th, 2023 at 7:04pm:
True, Vall, but I wonder how many current 44-40 smokeless loads have been shot (before loosening up!) in original Ballards in that loading and at 22,000 CUP max of the 44-40 versus the 21,000 CUP max of the 32 H&R Mag not even taking into account the lesser back thrust of the smaller case. Thanks, RAM, I wanted to get a feel for how it worked in a rifle.
I am un familiar with much of what is being discussed. However, I am familiar with the 44-40 max loads. Regardless, I would also be interested in any rifles that "loosen up" due to what may be considered excessive loads.
However, back to the 44-40 max loads...
2-14-1917
Winchester cartridge engineering offices proof pressures documents show the following,
- Loads for the Winchester Model of 73' - 13,000cup average service pressure and 16,500cup proof pressure.
- Loads for the Winchester Model of 92' - 18,000cup average service pressure and 23,500 proof pressure.
If modern standards calls for 13,000cup as the max load pressures for the 44-40, I doubt that 22,000cup is the max load pressure for the 44 W.H.V.
I don't know exactly which single shot rifle is being discussed here, but Lyman calls for 19 rifles chambered for the 44-40. Of those, the following rifles are considered strong action, of which Lyman lists 21,900cup max loads to be used.
Group 2 (Strong Actions)
Winchester Model 1892 (& replicas)
Marlin Model 1889
Marlin Model 1894
Remington Keene Bolt Action
Remington Model 14 1/2 pump action
Winchester Single Shot rifles Remington No 1 Rolling Block single shot Remington "Baby Carbine" single shot Stevens Model 44 1/2 single shot