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, thisbig-bore round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into areliable survival tool. Today,the 45-70 Government is prized for itsdevastating stopping power on large game, includingmoose.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the.45-70 cartridge unique is itsrange of power from mild to wild. In modern lever-action rifles like theHenry Big Boy,the 45-70 Government can be loaded tofull-power levels, deliveringtremendous knockdown power. Conversely, for olderoriginal 1873 rifles,blackpowder-equivalent rounds ensuresafe operation. Thetypical bullet weight ranges from325 to 450 grains, withinitial speeds between1,300 and 1,700 fps.
Hunting and Practical Use
For themodern hunter,45-70 ammo excels indense brush. Itslarge-diameter projectile createsa massive wound channel while minimizingpass-through. Manycustom ammunition makers appreciate thecartridge's versatility, allowing them todevelop subsonic rounds. Additionally,specialized ammunition like theHornady FTX offerings providereliable performance at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
Whilethis caliber is not ascommon as 9mm or .223, it remainsin steady production from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices fora 50-count pack typically range from$1.75 to $2.50 per cartridge. For thoseconsidering a purchase, it's crucial tomatch ammunition 45-70 ammo to your rifle's action. Whether used fortarget shooting, the45-70 ammo remains aproven performer that bridgesthe gap between past and present.