Mine has the 34" barrel.
I reload as you can see. The main thing is use 45-70 Govt load data.
I'm use IMR 4198 and have not had any issues with pressure and the recoil is not bad at all.
I picked up this Pedersoli 1874 sharps this summer. (45-70)
I've only shot it a handful of times, but I wouldn't hesitate to shoot a cow elk out to 200 yards. It's really quite accurate.
405gr cast bullet from Rim Rock Bullets in Montana.
I think the snow and cold will be a blessing.
Also, I would not pull my truck into the area you can see the meadows. Park back a ways and sneak in before light.
I have 2- 6.5x284's and have really grown to love that caliber. I shoot 140gr bullets at 2950fps.
If I was wanting to shoot a heavier bullet like a 150+ I would look at the PRC.