I shoot the Oregon Trails in all three of my 45-70's. Because they are hard cast, the .459 works extremely well. A .458 would better if you were shooting softer 20-1 or 30-1 lead as they will "bump up" in the barrell. I find 3031 to be the best powder so far. I also, load 3f Goex Express with great results. I'm also, using the Cast Performace bullets and the Beartooth bullets. Between the 3, they are all pretty equal shooters the only difference is the weights, 420-430 grains, for the ones I'm using.