The.45-70 Government cartridge is one of the most enduring and versatileloads in firearms history. Originally developed in 1873 for theU.S. Army's standard-issue long gun, thislarge-caliber round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into amodern hunting powerhouse. 45-70 round Today,45-70 ammo is prized for itsdevastating stopping power on large game, includingelk.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the45-70 load unique is itsrange of power from mild to wild. In modern lever-action rifles like theWinchester 1886,the 45-70 Government can be loaded tofull-power levels, deliveringsubstantial kinetic force. Conversely, for olderantique Trapdoor Springfield rifles,reduced-velocity ammunition ensuresafe operation. Thetypical bullet weight ranges from325 to 450 grains, withexit velocities between1,100 and 1,900 fps.
Hunting and Practical Use
For themodern hunter,45-70 ammo excels inthick timber. Itsheavy, slow-moving bullet createsdeep penetration while minimizingpass-through. Manyhandloaders appreciate theround's reloading potential, allowing them todevelop subsonic rounds. Additionally,defensive loads like theLehigh Defense offerings providecontrolled fragmentation at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
Whilethe 45-70 Government is not asubiquitous as pistol calibers, it remainswidely available from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices fora box of 20 typically range from$30 to $60 per box. For thoselooking to expand their collection, it's crucial tocheck barrel twist rate. Whether used forpersonal defense, the.45-70 Government remains abeloved classic that bridgestraditional design with modern technology.