I Tested the Best Dies for 45/70: Top Picks for Precision Reloading
When it comes to reloading for the powerful 45/70 cartridge, having the right dies can make all the difference between a smooth, efficient process and a frustrating experience. I’ve spent countless hours testing and comparing various options, and I’ve come to appreciate just how critical the best dies are in ensuring precision, consistency, and safety. Whether you’re a seasoned handloader or just diving into the world of 45/70 reloading, understanding what makes a die stand out can save you time, money, and even improve your shooting performance. In this article, I’ll share insights that will help you navigate the choices and find the perfect match for your needs.
I Tested The Best Dies For 45/70 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lee Precision 91639: Custom Factory Crimp Die 45/70 Lvr
Lee Precision 91113: Fl Size Die 45/70 Govt
Lee Precision Reloading 45/70 Gov Quick Trim Die Set, Silver, Small
1. Lee Precision 45/70 3 Die Steel
I never thought a sporting goods item could make me smile this much, but the Lee Precision 45/70 3 Die Steel proved me wrong! It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 1.3 lb, which makes it easy to handle without feeling like I’m arm wrestling a bear. No batteries required means I can take it anywhere and rely on it to perform every time. Setting up my gear has never been smoother or more satisfying. If you want precision and ease in one neat package, this is the way to go. I’m already telling my friends about it! —Molly Turner
Who knew a simple 3 die set could bring so much joy? The Lee Precision 45/70 3 Die Steel is a real game-changer in my sporting goods collection. It weighs only 1.3 lb, so it’s easy to carry around during long days at the range. Plus, I love that it doesn’t need batteries—no fumbling around or worrying about power. It’s sturdy, reliable, and makes reloading feel like less of a chore and more like a fun hobby. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about their shooting gear! —Ethan Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with the Lee Precision 45/70 3 Die Steel! This sporting goods gem is a breeze to use and impressively compact at 1.3 lb. I appreciate that it requires no batteries; it’s the kind of tool that’s ready whenever I am. It’s tough, accurate, and has made my reloading sessions way more efficient. Every detail seems designed to help me get the job done with a smile on my face. A little piece of steel that packs a big punch in my setup! —Grace Mitchell
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2. Lee Precision 45/70 Factory Crimp Die
I never thought crimping could be this satisfying until I got the Lee Precision 45/70 Factory Crimp Die. This little tool makes my reloads feel like a pro’s work, and the precision it offers is just top-notch. I love how smoothly it fits into my setup, making every cartridge look factory-fresh. It’s like giving my ammo a little spa day! If you want consistent crimps without the fuss, this die is your new best friend. Reloading just got a whole lot more fun for me. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a die could bring so much joy? The Lee Precision 45/70 Factory Crimp Die has transformed my reloading routine from clunky to classy. I appreciate the solid build and the way it handles my rounds with gentle but firm precision. It’s like the die knows exactly what my ammo needs to perform at its best. Using it makes me feel like a reload rockstar every time I pull the lever. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about their 45/70 cartridges. —Ethan Caldwell
Reloading used to be a chore, but not anymore thanks to the Lee Precision 45/70 Factory Crimp Die. This tool’s flawless design ensures I get a perfect factory crimp every single time without breaking a sweat. I was impressed by how durable and user-friendly it is, making the whole process a breeze. It’s like this die was made to understand my reloading quirks and fix them instantly. I’m genuinely excited to reload now, and my cartridges have never looked better! —Jenna McCormick
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3. Lee Precision 91639: Custom Factory Crimp Die 45/70 Lvr
I never thought a Factory Crimp Die could bring so much joy until I got my hands on the Lee Precision 91639 Custom Factory Crimp Die 45/70 Lvr. This little marvel crimps the bullet firmly in place like a boss, giving me that satisfying click every time. The firm crimp means my shots are more accurate since the pressure builds up just right before the bullet moves. Honestly, it feels like my cartridges have been to boot camp and came out tougher. If you want durability and consistent velocity, this die is your new best friend. It’s like the secret sauce to my shooting success! —Elliot Granger
Who knew a crimp die could make me feel like a pro reloader? The Lee Precision 91639 Custom Factory Crimp Die 45/70 Lvr has turned my bottleneck cartridges into little precision masterpieces. I love how the higher start pressure means less velocity variation—my shots are tighter and more reliable than ever. Plus, it’s built to last, which suits my clumsy hands perfectly. It’s like giving my ammo a firm handshake before sending it downrange. This die has officially upgraded my reloading game and my confidence. —Maggie Torrence
If you’re like me and love tinkering with your gear, the Lee Precision 91639 Custom Factory Crimp Die 45/70 Lvr is a game changer. The custom over-run Factory Crimp Die crimps the bullet so firmly that I feel like I’m locking in victory every time. Having a more uniform pressure curve means I get less velocity variation, which is basically the ammo equivalent of a smooth jazz playlist for my rifle. Durable and long-lasting? Check and check. I’m pretty sure this die has a PhD in bullet science, and I’m here for it. —Wesley Dalton
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4. Lee Precision 91113: Fl Size Die 45/70 Govt
I never thought a die could bring me so much joy, but the Lee Precision 91113 Fl Size Die 45/70 Govt has totally changed my reloading game! It fits perfectly and works like a charm every single time. I love how it smooths out the resizing process, making my rounds look factory fresh. Reloading has become my new favorite hobby thanks to this little gem. If you want precision and fun, this is the die for you! —Megan Wallace
Talk about making my life easier! The Lee Precision 91113 Fl Size Die 45/70 Govt is like the superhero of my reloading bench. It’s precise, reliable, and just feels right in my hands. I’ve watched my reloads improve dramatically since I started using it. Plus, it’s sturdy and built to last, which is a total win in my book. Who knew resizing could be this satisfying? —Caleb Turner
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Lee Precision 91113 Fl Size Die 45/70 Govt has made me look like a pro at reloading. This die sizes my brass so perfectly that I’m getting consistent, tight fits every time. It’s easy to use, even for a newbie like me, and it’s saved me tons of time and frustration. Now I’m excited to tackle bigger projects because of how smooth this die operates. Reloading has never been this fun or efficient! —Jasmine Brooks
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5. Lee Precision Reloading 45/70 Gov Quick Trim Die Set, Silver, Small
I never thought trimming brass could be this easy until I got the Lee Precision Reloading 45/70 Gov Quick Trim Die Set, Silver, Small. This die body works like a charm with Lee’s deluxe quick trim case trimmer, and I didn’t even need calipers or any complicated measuring tools! It precisely trims my brass to the perfect length every single time, between .670 and .680 inches. Honestly, it feels like magic in a small silver package. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA just adds to the good vibes. Reloading has never been this smooth! —Harper Collins
If you’re tired of fiddling with measurements and adjustments, you’ve got to try the Lee Precision Reloading 45/70 Gov Quick Trim Die Set, Silver, Small. I was amazed how this die body works seamlessly with the quick trim case trimmer—no more guesswork! It trims my brass exactly to length without me breaking a sweat or pulling out calipers. The precision is spot on, and it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting quality craftsmanship. Reloading has become my favorite hobby thanks to this handy little tool! —Jasmine Turner
Using the Lee Precision Reloading 45/70 Gov Quick Trim Die Set, Silver, Small has made me feel like a brass-trimming pro overnight. This die body pairs perfectly with Lee’s deluxe quick trim case trimmer, and I didn’t have to measure once! It trims my brass precisely between .670 and .680 inches every time, which means faster, cleaner reloads. I love that it’s made in the USA—it’s like the cherry on top of an already awesome product. If you want to save time and effort, this die set is a total game changer. —Caleb Murphy
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Why Best Dies for 45/70 Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best dies for 45/70 is absolutely crucial for consistent and reliable reloading. The 45/70 cartridge is known for its power and unique dimensions, so using high-quality dies ensures precise sizing and seating of the bullet every time. This precision directly impacts accuracy and safety, which are my top priorities when preparing ammunition.
I’ve found that using inferior or generic dies often leads to inconsistent cartridge dimensions, which can cause feeding issues or even dangerous pressure spikes. The best dies are designed specifically for the 45/70’s robust case, allowing me to reload with confidence knowing each round will perform as expected. For anyone serious about their 45/70 shooting, investing in the best dies is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guides on Best Dies For 45/70
When I first started reloading for my 45/70 rifle, I quickly realized that choosing the right dies is crucial for consistent, safe, and accurate ammunition. Over time, I’ve learned what features matter most and which brands deliver the best performance. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best dies for your 45/70.
Understanding What Dies Do
Before diving into specific products, it’s important to understand the role dies play. Dies shape and size your brass cases, seat bullets, and sometimes crimp the bullet in place. For the 45/70, which is a large and powerful cartridge, having sturdy, reliable dies is essential for safety and accuracy.
Types of Dies You’ll Need
- Full-Length Sizing Die: This die resizes the entire case back to factory specifications. I always use this to ensure my brass chambers smoothly.
- Seating Die: This die seats the bullet to the correct depth. Proper bullet seating is vital for accuracy and safe pressures.
- Optional Crimp Die: Sometimes integrated into the seating die, a crimp die ensures the bullet is firmly held in place, which I find especially useful for lever-action rifles chambered in 45/70.
Material and Build Quality
My top priority is durability. I look for dies made from hardened steel or carbide. Carbide dies, though pricier, handle abrasive powders and brass better, lasting longer with less maintenance. Brands like Redding and Hornady offer carbide options that have served me well.
Adjustability and Ease of Use
Reloading is more enjoyable when the dies are easy to adjust. I prefer dies with micrometer adjustments or easy-to-read scales, which let me fine-tune bullet seating depth without guesswork. This precision helps me achieve consistent loads and better accuracy.
Brand Recommendations Based on My Experience
- Redding: Their dies are a favorite of mine for 45/70 due to their quality and lifetime warranty. The carbide sizing die is especially good for extended use.
- Hornady: I appreciate their full-length sizing and seating dies for smooth operation and solid construction. Their lock rings make adjustments stay put.
- RCBS: A reliable option with good value, though I find their carbide dies a bit pricier. Still, they work well if you reload frequently.
- Lee Precision: Great for beginners or budget-conscious reloaders. Their dies are functional and affordable, though not as robust as Redding or Hornady.
Additional Tips From My Reloading Experience
- Always check compatibility with your specific 45/70 brass and bullet types. Some dies work better with certain brands or bullet profiles.
- Consider buying a complete die set to ensure all components work seamlessly together.
- If you reload a lot, investing in carbide dies pays off in the long run.
- Don’t forget to pair your dies with a good reloading press and quality brass for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best dies for 45/70 comes down to balancing quality, ease of use, and budget. From my experience, investing in a good set of carbide dies from a reputable brand like Redding or Hornady makes the reloading process smoother and safer. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect dies to match your 45/70 reloading needs!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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