Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS Review

How the Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS Changed My Routine

For anyone deeply involved with precision shooting or classic rifle platforms, finding reliable components is paramount. I recently had the opportunity to evaluate the Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS, a component that promises consistent performance for a beloved caliber. My previous batch of similar projectiles, while functional, had shown minor inconsistencies that were starting to impact my reloads.

The need for a consistent projectile for my .45-70 loads became clear after a few range days. I was looking for something that would reliably feed and perform, reducing the variables in my handloads. I had considered a few other manufacturers, but Berry’s Manufacturing has a solid reputation for quality components, making this a compelling choice. My initial impression upon receiving the box was positive; the projectiles felt well-formed and uniform.

This particular order offered a tangible improvement to my handloading process, streamlining what had become a minor point of frustration. It felt like finally having a dependable foundation for my favorite rifle’s ammunition.

Real-World Testing: Putting Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for these projectiles was my home reloading bench, followed by extended sessions at the local outdoor shooting range. I was working with a Marlin 1895, a rifle that demands a certain quality in its ammunition to truly shine. The conditions were fair, mostly dry with a slight afternoon breeze, typical for a Saturday at the range.

The Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS projectiles were exceptionally easy to work with from the outset. There was no significant learning curve, and they seated into cases smoothly. I did notice that during repeated firing, the projectile’s performance remained consistent, contributing to tighter groups than I had achieved previously.

A minor surprise was the subtle difference in feeding. While not dramatic, the smoother profile seemed to glide more effortlessly into the chamber. There were no immediate issues or quirks that presented themselves during these initial uses.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent reloading and numerous trips to the range, these projectiles have held up remarkably well. I’ve processed a full box of 150, along with initiating a second, and they continue to perform as expected. The uniformity is impressive, with no discernible wear or degradation in their ballistic properties.

Durability is not a primary concern for projectiles like these, as they are consumed with each shot. However, the consistency in their shape and weight has remained steadfast. I haven’t encountered any instances of deformation or damage during the reloading process itself, which speaks to their robust construction.

Maintenance and care for these is straightforward: keep them in their original packaging or a suitable container away from moisture and extreme temperatures. I haven’t needed any specific cleaning beyond standard firearm maintenance, and their condition hasn’t warranted any special attention. Compared to some lesser-quality projectiles I’ve used in the past, these exhibit a clear advantage in terms of consistency and ease of use in reloading.

Breaking Down the Features of Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS

Specifications

The Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS comes as a box of 150 projectiles, each weighing 350 grains. The bullet type is specified as Round Shoulder (RS), which is a key design feature. This particular projectile is designed for the .45-70 Govt (.458) caliber.

The Round Shoulder design is crucial for smooth feeding in lever-action rifles like my Marlin. It provides a rounded profile at the nose, reducing the likelihood of jamming or damaging the projectile during the feeding cycle. This is a significant advantage over more pointed designs in tubular magazines where projectiles can interact.

The 350-grain weight is a popular choice for the .45-70, striking a balance between penetration and velocity. It’s heavy enough for significant impact and energy transfer but not so heavy as to be prohibitively slow. This weight is ideal for a variety of applications, from general target practice to medium-game hunting scenarios. The 150-pack provides a good quantity for enthusiasts who shoot regularly without being an overwhelming bulk order.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job, the Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS performs exceptionally well. My handloads using these projectiles have consistently produced tight groupings at typical .45-70 ranges. The accuracy is reliable, and the velocity remains predictable from shot to shot, provided consistent powder charges are used.

A significant strength is the Round Shoulder design, which has virtually eliminated feeding issues I’ve occasionally encountered with other bullet profiles in my Marlin’s tubular magazine. They simply glide into the chamber with a satisfying smoothness. A minor point of consideration, though not a weakness, is that this projectile type is optimized for lever-action rifles; while it will function in bolt-actions, its specific design benefits are most pronounced in the former.

Overall, these projectiles meet and often exceed expectations for their intended purpose and price point. They offer a level of consistency that is highly valued by handloaders.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Berry’s Manufacturing projectiles is readily apparent. They feel substantial and well-formed. The Round Shoulder profile is cleanly executed, with no visible blemishes or inconsistencies in the jacket or the lead core.

Ergonomically, for a projectile, there isn’t much to speak of in terms of handling, but their design translates directly to usability. The uniform shape and consistent diameter make them easy to handle during the reloading process. The Round Shoulder is the standout design element here, directly contributing to their functional ergonomics within a firearm.

The finish is typically consistent across the batch, indicating good manufacturing processes. There are no sharp edges or molding imperfections that could cause problems during seating or firing.

Durability & Maintenance

As components intended for firing, “durability” in the traditional sense of a reusable tool doesn’t apply. However, their resilience during the reloading process and their consistency over time are indicators of their quality. The jacketed nature of these bullets means they are resistant to deformation during seating or chambering.

Maintenance for these projectiles involves proper storage. Keeping them dry and protected from physical damage is essential to ensure they perform optimally when loaded. I’ve experienced no issues with tarnishing or corrosion when stored correctly.

There are no obvious failure points to mention for this type of product, assuming they are used within the intended caliber and pressure parameters. The primary concern is maintaining their integrity prior to loading.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS comes as a standalone component, typically sold in a 150-pack. There are no inherent accessories included with the projectiles themselves. Customization, in this context, refers to the handloader’s ability to select their preferred powder charge, primer, and case preparation.

These projectiles are designed to work with standard .45-70 Govt reloading dies and equipment. Their compatibility with common reloading practices is a key feature. For those looking to optimize their loads, experimenting with different propellant types and charge weights is the primary avenue for “customization” with these bullets.

Pros and Cons of Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS

Who Should Buy Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS?

This product is an excellent choice for handloaders who own a .45-70 Government rifle, particularly those with a lever-action platform like a Marlin or Winchester. It is ideal for individuals who prioritize consistent accuracy and reliable feeding in their reloaded ammunition. These projectiles are well-suited for target shooting enthusiasts and those who hunt medium-sized game where the .45-70 excels.

Those who should probably skip these are individuals looking for ready-to-fire ammunition or those who exclusively use bolt-action rifles where the specific feeding benefits of the Round Shoulder design are less critical. If you are new to reloading, it’s always recommended to start with established load data.

For those looking to maximize their experience, ensuring you have a quality set of .45-70 reloading dies is essential. Additionally, having a reliable powder measure and a good selection of appropriate propellants will allow you to take full advantage of these components.

Conclusion on Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS

The Berry’s Manufacturing .45-70 Govt (.458) 350GR RS projectiles are a highly commendable component for any handloader in the .45-70 caliber. They deliver on their promise of consistent performance, with the Round Shoulder design proving particularly beneficial for feeding reliability in lever-action firearms. The quality of manufacture is evident, translating into accurate and dependable reloads.

Considering the price and the 150-pack quantity, the value proposition is strong. These projectiles offer a tangible improvement for those seeking to refine their handloads. I would readily recommend them to fellow handloaders looking for a dependable and well-performing bullet for their .45-70 rifles. They are a solid investment for anyone who appreciates a smooth and effective shooting experience.