I recently acquired a 45-85 cartridge made by U. M. C. The headstamp reads U. M. C. with S H straddling a small dimpled primer. It has a flat point lead bullet that APPEARS to be grooved length-wise. The case measures 2.100″ long. The overall length is 2.520″. I have gotten the idea that it may be for an early Marlin but would like credible info. BTW I have difficulty reading a micrometer. Don
86Win said
I recently acquired a 45-85 cartridge made by U. M. C. The headstamp reads U. M. C. with S H straddling a small dimpled primer. It has a flat point lead bullet that APPEARS to be grooved length-wise. The case measures 2.100″ long. The overall length is 2.520″. I have gotten the idea that it may be for an early Marlin but would like credible info. BTW I have difficulty reading a micrometer. Don
It is as stated above a loading for 45-70 but with a shorter less grains bullet making the case hold more black powder. If it was for the 45-90 the case length would be 2.40″ long.
The 45-85 Marlin is not the same as the 45-85 WCF. As the Winchester in my mind is a true “express” cartridge. It has the hollow ended bullet with the express tube on the end and is made for chambers in the 45-90 WCF.
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https://winchestercollector.org/forum/winchester-research-surveys/winchester-reloading-tool-survey/
This cartridge is for the Marlin, Ballard and Colt Lightning rifles. The Winchester 45-85 is marked WCF and is the same length as the 45-90. This cartridge manufactured by Winchester is NOT marked WCF and is the same length as the 45-70. I would love to find a box for the Colt Lightning made by Winchester.
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