I've got an 14" SSK SS barrel that has a SSK/brake on it. 300gr loads ain't really that bad. I've shot 44 mags that hurt you more than this set-up. I thought this was a stought round untill the 450Marlin I'm working on now. 405gr loads make the 45/70 like childs play. Pachmyer grips help alot and so do a good pair of shooting gloves. You'll like the 45/70, plus it's a real deer stopper!!