Recently bought a Pedersoli Sharps 1874 rifle and would like to do some long range shooting.

Does anyone have some smokeless loads that they could recommend?

Have a friend who has a modern manufactured Christian Sharps (the original sharps...) in 45-120, after checking with the factory to make sure the modern machining process, heat treating and alloy could stand it he came up with some BTHP loads that got 1/2" @ 100yd accuracy and chronographed out to over 3,000FPS.

I forgot what powder and primer he used, but I believe he used Barnes bullets and Iron sights. (FYI he is one of the best shooters I have ever seen much less heard of)

That said, I am sure you will not get that out of a 45-70, but keep in mind you have a +/- 150 year old design that is made using modern materials and methods and should be strong enough to handle about anything you load it to.

here is the link to the IMR/Hogden/Winchester data page, You can check it or any reloading manual for load data.

I advise going for the lighter bullets unless yo like pain.

I also suggest asking the shop selling you your componants and tell them what type of shooting you intend.

Good luck