Springfield model 1873,question

[davew]

I have been looking at a Springfield model 1873 carbine, my question is are they black power only or can modern 45-70 be fired in them.
Thank You

[Rapidrob]

Yes and no. The Remington 405 Grain loads would be safe in your carbine.However,the jacketed bullet may not be. The barrels were made for a pure lead or paper patch bullet. The lands can be damaged by today's jacketed bullets.
I was told this by the largest collector of Trap Door Springfields in NM. I trust what he says as he showed me how to load for the TDS and what not to do. I bought one of his rifles 25 years ago.
I would go with a load from Black Hill's ammo or the like.

[davew]

Thank You, that answers my question.

[Smokey]

The barrel steel is extremely soft. That's why jacketed bullets should not be used.

[Mountain Lion]

I have heard exactly the same thing about jacketed bullets vs. lead bullets. I have only shot the black powder, lead shells through my carbine and rifle with no adverse effects. I have purchased and had good luck with ammunition from Buffalo Arms. See https://www.buffaloarms.com/45-70-gover ... ogx4570405

Not cheap, but not terribly expensive either. How about a few pictures for us junkies?

[davew]

It was up for auction. It was a cut -down, the bids went higher than I thought it was worth, so I passed on it.
At least I have the information I need to bid on the next one, thanks to the people who answered my question.