The.45-70 Government cartridge is one of the most enduring and versatileprojectiles in firearms history. Originally developed in 1873 for theU.S. Army's standard-issue long gun, thisheavy-hitting round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into amodern hunting powerhouse. Today,this classic round is prized for itsdevastating stopping power on large game, includingbear.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the45-70 round unique is itsrange of power from mild to wild. In modern lever-action rifles like theHenry Big Boy,this caliber can be loaded tofull-power levels, deliveringsubstantial kinetic force. Conversely, for oldervintage Sharps rifles,blackpowder-equivalent rounds ensurehistorical authenticity. Thetypical bullet weight ranges from300 to 500 grains, withexit velocities between1,200 and 1,800 feet per second.
Hunting and Practical Use
For theoutdoorsman,this cartridge excels inthick timber. Itsheavy, slow-moving bullet createsexcellent tissue damage while minimizingpass-through. Manyreloading enthusiasts appreciate the45-70's case capacity, allowing them totune loads for specific rifles. Additionally,hollow-point variants like theBuffalo Bore offerings provideexceptional expansion at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
Whilethis caliber is not asubiquitous as pistol calibers, it remainswidely available from major manufacturers likeHornady. Prices fora box of 20 typically range from$30 to $60 per box. For thoseconsidering 45-70 ammo a purchase, it's crucial toverify pressure ratings. Whether used forhistorical reenactment, the.45-70 Government remains alegendary cartridge that bridgesthe gap between past and present.