The.45-70 Government cartridge is one of the most enduring and versatileloads in firearms history. Originally developed in 1873 for theSpringfield Model 1873 Trapdoor rifle, thisheavy-hitting round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into areliable survival tool. Today,the 45-70 Government is prized for itsunmatched terminal ballistics on large game, includingwild boar.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the45-70 load unique is itsrange of power from mild 45-70 ammo to wild. In modern lever-action rifles like theMarlin 1895,the 45-70 Government can be loaded tohigher pressures, deliveringover 2,000 foot-pounds of energy. Conversely, for oldervintage Sharps rifles,low-pressure loads ensurepreservation of the firearm. Thetypical bullet weight ranges from305 to 405 grains, withinitial speeds between1,300 and 1,700 fps.
Hunting and Practical Use
For themodern hunter,45-70 ammo excels indense brush. Itssubstantial mass createsdeep penetration while minimizingpass-through. Manyhandloaders appreciate thecartridge's versatility, allowing them tocreate reduced-recoil options. Additionally,specialized ammunition like theHornady FTX offerings provideexceptional expansion at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
While45-70 ammo is not ascheap as popular rifle rounds, it remainswidely available from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices for45-70 rounds typically range from$1.75 to $2.50 per cartridge. For thoseconsidering a purchase, it's crucial tomatch ammunition to your rifle's action. Whether used fortarget shooting, the45-70 ammo remains alegendary cartridge that bridgestraditional design with modern technology.