This is an old rustic-looking reloading tool mfd by Ideal and marked "45 Gov. 405"...aka 45-70 with a 405 grain bullet mold. It still has its original adjustable sizing die...these are usually missing. Mold cavity has a little surface rust but has been preserved quite well because someone cast a lead slug and left it with the intention of sealing off the cope and the drag. Original sprue cutter is also intact. As you can see from the photos, its in "barn-find" condition with about 40% original nickel with the balance of the iron turned to a heavy dark brown patina mixed with rust. This would clean up considerably nicer and sell for twice as much but it has such an interesting look, we wanted to leave it alone. Would make a great accessory to any old Winchester 1886, Marlin 1881, or Springfield Trapdoor Rifle in this caliber.
Item# 0792
SOLD |