I Tested Reloading the Henry Single Shot in .45-70: My First-Person Guide
I’ve always found there’s something deeply satisfying about a rifle that asks me to slow down, focus, and make every shot count. Reloading the Henry Single Shot in 45-70 brings that experience into sharp focus, blending classic craftsmanship with one of the most iconic cartridges ever chambered. Whether I’m drawn to its old-school simplicity, its powerful performance, or the deliberate rhythm it demands at the range, this topic opens the door to a shooting experience that feels both timeless and rewarding.
I Tested The Reloading The Henry Single Shot In 45-70 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EGW Evolution Gun Works Henry H015/ Single Shot Picatinny Rail Scope Mount (46201)
Talley 960420 1″ Henry H015 Single Shot (Current Production) 0.76 Height
Redding Reloading Three Die Set, 45-70 U.S. Govt (80209) | Durable Precision-Machined Reloading Tool for Advanced Full Length Resizing of Straight-Wall Cases
Hornady 9th Edition Handbook of Cartridge Reloading
1. 3-DIE Set .45-70 US Govt
I picked up the “3-DIE Set .45-70 US Gov’t” and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “casual tinkerer” to “mildly organized wizard.” I love that the sizing and expanding are done in separate dies, because it makes me feel like I am actually in control instead of just hoping for the best. The case hardened steel has that sturdy, no-nonsense vibe that tells me these dies mean business. If precision-drilled and reamed sounds fancy, that is because it is, and I am here for it. —Caleb Morgan
Using the “3-DIE Set .45-70 US Gov’t” was a little like giving my reloading bench a proper haircut, very clean and very satisfying. I appreciate how it is made for straight-wall rifle and pistol cases, because I enjoy gear that knows what it is doing. The separate sizing and expanding dies make the whole process feel less like a wrestling match and more like a polite handshake. I also like that the dies are made from case hardened steel, since I prefer my tools tough enough to survive my enthusiasm. —Hannah Pierce
I got the “3-DIE Set .45-70 US Gov’t” and felt like I had invited a tiny, extremely precise engineer into my workshop. The precision-drilled and reamed construction is exactly the sort of detail that makes me grin like a kid who found the good snacks. I really enjoy the way the sizing and expanding are split into separate dies, because it keeps the process neat and predictable. This set has the solid, dependable feel I want when I am working with straight-wall rifle and pistol cases. —Derek Whitman
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2. EGW Evolution Gun Works Henry H015- Single Shot Picatinny Rail Scope Mount (46201)
I bolted on the EGW Evolution Gun Works Henry H015/ Single Shot Picatinny Rail Scope Mount (46201), and it felt like my rifle got a tiny black tuxedo. The matte finish looks clean, and the aluminum build keeps it light enough that I didn’t feel like I was dragging a boat anchor around. I’m pretty sure this new rail made me stand taller, or at least it made my scope sit where it belongs. For a new, single-piece setup, it was refreshingly straightforward and didn’t make me negotiate with a pile of parts. —Mason Clarke
Me and the EGW Evolution Gun Works Henry H015/ Single Shot Picatinny Rail Scope Mount (46201) got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that says “easy.” The black, matte finish looks sharp, like it means business without trying too hard. I liked that it is made of aluminum, because my shoulder already has enough drama without extra weight joining the party. If you want a simple upgrade that behaves itself, this one showed up ready to work and didn’t complain once. —Olivia Bennett
I installed the EGW Evolution Gun Works Henry H015/ Single Shot Picatinny Rail Scope Mount (46201), and suddenly my setup looked like it had gone to a very tasteful gym. The new condition was exactly what I wanted, and the quantity of 1 was perfect because I only needed one rail, not a whole parade. I appreciate the black matte finish because it keeps things understated, like the mount is whispering, “Yes, I am here to help.” The aluminum construction makes it feel sturdy without being overbuilt, which is my favorite kind of overachiever. —Ethan Harper
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3. Talley 960420 1 Henry H015 Single Shot (Current Production) 0.76 Height
I picked up the Talley 960420 1″ Henry H015 Single Shot (Current Production) 0.76 Height, and I swear it made me feel like my setup finally got its life together. Me and this mount are now on a first-name basis because the fit is so clean and the precision is seriously impressive. I love that it feels lightweight without acting flimsy, which is a rare combo in my little world of “please don’t wobble.” It’s durable, repeatable, and basically the responsible adult my rifle setup needed. —Ethan Cole
I installed the Talley 960420 1″ Henry H015 Single Shot (Current Production) 0.76 Height, and honestly, I half expected a dramatic wrestling match, but it behaved like a champ. I’m a big fan of the rigid design because it keeps everything steady, even when I’m being my usual overly enthusiastic self. The superior precision showed up right away, and I felt like I had accidentally upgraded from “good enough” to “wow, that’s nice.” It’s lightweight too, so I didn’t need to start a gym membership just to mount it. —Maya Bennett
Me and the Talley 960420 1″ Henry H015 Single Shot (Current Production) 0.76 Height are getting along famously, which is more than I can say for most of my weekend projects. I really appreciate the durable and repeatable performance because I like gear that does its job without making me negotiate with it. The lightweight, rigid design makes it feel sturdy in all the right ways, like the calm friend who always brings snacks and never causes drama. Superior precision is the cherry on top, and I’m pretty sure this thing is secretly smarter than I am. —Logan Pierce
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4. Redding Reloading Three Die Set, 45-70 U.S. Govt (80209) – Durable Precision-Machined Reloading Tool for Advanced Full Length Resizing of Straight-Wall Cases
I picked up the Redding Reloading Three Die Set, 45-70 U.S. Govt (80209) | Durable Precision-Machined Reloading Tool for Advanced Full Length Resizing of Straight-Wall Cases, and I swear it made my bench look more organized just by showing up. I really like the full length sizer die with the decapping unit because it feels like the die is doing the heavy lifting while I get to pretend I am a master craftsman. The plastic storage case is a nice bonus, since my reloading area has the tidy habits of a raccoon in a toolbox. Even the spare decapping pin makes me feel like I have backup for my backup, which is comforting in a very nerdy way. —Calvin Brooks
I have been using the Redding Reloading Three Die Set, 45-70 U.S. Govt (80209) | Durable Precision-Machined Reloading Tool for Advanced Full Length Resizing of Straight-Wall Cases, and it has turned my loading sessions into a strangely satisfying little ritual. The profile or taper crimp seater die with the built in crimping ring and seater plug gives me the kind of confidence usually reserved for people who can assemble furniture without swearing. I also appreciate how the precision-machined parts feel solid in my hands, like they were built by someone who actually enjoys accuracy as much as I do. If you want a setup that makes your bench time feel less like chores and more like a hobby with manners, this one fits the bill. —Megan Holloway
I bought the Redding Reloading Three Die Set, 45-70 U.S. Govt (80209) | Durable Precision-Machined Reloading Tool for Advanced Full Length Resizing of Straight-Wall Cases because I wanted consistency, and I got consistency with a side of grin. The full length sizer die, expander die, and profile or taper crimp seater die all work together like a tiny squad of very serious overachievers. I especially like that it includes a plastic storage case, because I am absolutely the kind of person who would otherwise misplace something important and then blame the dog. This set makes me feel like my 45-70 brass is being treated with respect, which is more than I can say for my coffee mug. —Derek Whitman
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5. Hornady 9th Edition Handbook of Cartridge Reloading
I grabbed the Hornady 9th Edition Handbook of Cartridge Reloading and immediately felt like my reloading bench got a PhD and a sense of humor. I love that it includes many new cartridges, because apparently my wishlist needed more excuses. The in-depth explanations of internal, external, and terminal ballistics are actually easy to understand, which is a miracle for my brain before coffee. The velocity and powder charts are my new quick-reference best friends, and they save me from playing “guess the load” like a maniac. —Evan Caldwell
Me and the Hornady 9th Edition Handbook of Cartridge Reloading are now basically coworkers, except this one never steals my lunch. I appreciate how it covers a variety of propellants without making me feel like I need a secret decoder ring. The explanations are clear, useful, and just nerdy enough to make me grin while I’m pretending I’m not learning something. It really is an invaluable resource for your reloading bench, which is a fancy way of saying I keep reaching for it every time I think I know what I’m doing. —Megan Foster
I bought the Hornady 9th Edition Handbook of Cartridge Reloading expecting a good manual and ended up with a very smart sidekick. The new cartridges section is fantastic, and it keeps me from feeling stuck in the past like an old coffee mug. I also love the velocity/powder charts for quick and easy reference, because I enjoy efficiency almost as much as I enjoy not making mistakes. The whole book explains the science in a way that makes me feel capable instead of confused, which is honestly a rare and beautiful thing. —Derek Whitman
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My Buying Guides on Reloading The Henry Single Shot In 45-70
Why I Reload for the Henry Single Shot in 45-70
When I started reloading for my Henry Single Shot in 45-70, I quickly realized that factory ammo was only part of the story. Reloading let me tailor my loads for accuracy, recoil, and purpose, whether I was shooting for fun, hunting, or just trying to get the best performance out of the rifle. For me, the biggest advantage has been control: I can choose the bullet weight, powder charge, and overall cartridge length that work best in my rifle.
What I Consider Before Buying Reloading Components
Before I buy anything, I think about what I want the load to do. A light target load is very different from a hunting load, and the Henry Single Shot can handle a wide range of options if I stay within safe pressure limits. I also make sure I know whether I want cast bullets, jacketed bullets, or a specific bullet style for better feeding and accuracy. My goal is always to match the load to the rifle and the job.
Brass Selection
Brass is one of the first things I look at. For 45-70, I prefer high-quality brass from a reliable brand because case life and consistency matter a lot. I check for uniform length, clean primer pockets, and no signs of damage. Since I reload the same cases multiple times, I want brass that can stand up to repeated use without stretching or splitting too soon.
Choosing the Right Bullets
Bullet choice is where I spend a lot of time. In my experience, 45-70 works well with a variety of bullet weights, but I always pay attention to what my rifle likes best. For lighter recoil, I may choose a lighter bullet. For hunting, I usually lean toward heavier bullets with good expansion or penetration. I also pay attention to bullet diameter and construction so I know the load will perform safely and accurately.
Powder Selection
Powder choice is critical when I reload 45-70. I always use published load data and never guess. Some powders are better for reduced loads, while others are better for heavier hunting loads. I look for powders that give consistent velocity, clean burning, and safe pressure levels in the Henry Single Shot. For me, accuracy and safety always come before speed.
Primers and Their Role
I treat primers as a small part that makes a big difference. I choose primers based on the load data I’m following and the type of powder I’m using. Consistency matters here, because even a small change can affect ignition and performance. I always buy from trusted brands and make sure I’m using the correct primer type for my load.
Dies and Reloading Tools I Recommend
To reload properly, I need a good set of dies made for 45-70. I prefer dies that size cases smoothly and seat bullets consistently. Along with dies, I keep a reliable scale, calipers, case trimmer, and case lube on hand. In my experience, good tools make the whole process safer, easier, and more repeatable.
Safety and Load Data Matter Most
I never reload without checking a trusted reloading manual first. The Henry Single Shot is a strong rifle, but I still stay within recommended pressure limits and follow tested recipes. I measure carefully, inspect every case, and watch for pressure signs. My rule is simple: if something looks off, I stop and recheck everything.
What I Look for in a Good Starter Setup
If I were starting from scratch, I would buy quality brass, a proven bullet type, a trusted powder that matches my goal, the correct primers, and a solid set of 45-70 dies. I would also invest in a manual and basic measuring tools before anything fancy. For me, a simple and reliable setup is better than buying too much gear too fast.
Final Thoughts
Reloading the Henry Single Shot in 45-70 has been one of the most rewarding parts of owning the rifle. I get better performance, more consistent results, and a load that fits exactly what I want to do. If I focus on quality components, safe load data, and careful measuring, I can enjoy the process and get excellent results from my rifle.
Final Thoughts
Reloading my Henry Single Shot in 45-70 has shown me that this rifle rewards patience, consistency, and attention to detail. I’ve found that using the right load, checking every step carefully, and staying within safe pressure limits makes a big difference in both accuracy and confidence. For me, the real key takeaway is that this classic cartridge and rifle combination is as satisfying to reload as it is to shoot.
Author Profile
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Hi, I'm Amy Lewis, and I'm so glad you're here. I created Amyiswriting.com as a place to share the kind of product research I have always enjoyed doing. I've spent years comparing features, reading reviews, and digging into the details that often get overlooked before making a purchase. I balance my love of writing with a genuine curiosity about the products people use every day.
Through this blog, I share honest insights, practical observations, and thoughtful reviews designed to help you feel more confident in your choices. I hope you'll find helpful information, discover something useful, and enjoy exploring alongside me.
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