i am just now starting to consider annealing. mostly 308 and 06. i have read that holding the case neck/shoulder over a candle flame till it gets too hot to hold then dropping it on a wet rag is the most ghetto way to go that still works. thoughts?
Best way with out a machine is to get a drill bit that fits the mouth of the case perfectly.
Put it in ur drill to rotate.
Then get a butane torch used for the food industry, or from home depot.
A propane torch will work too.
And poit it at the mouth of the case while turning on the drill to rotate.
When u see it change colour usually after 2-4 seconds stop and let it fall off the bit.
You dont need to put it in water. Just drop it on a damp towl.
There are several you tube videos on this process. Watch them.
FWIW - The 45-70 has a mild taper, it is not a straight wall cartridge. This is why you cannot buy a carbide sizing die for it. No difference when loading as compared to a legitimate straight wall cartridge but you definitely want to pay attention to expanding the neck for bullet seating.
Like others have correctly stated, case life in highly dependent on how it is loaded. Mild loads have very long case life.
A tip that may prove useful - Real brass cases don't hold up well if carried in a leather belt. They tarnish easily and quickly. I like the nickel plated cases for hunting, no tarnishing.