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 areliable survival tool. Today,45-70 ammo is prized for itsunmatched terminal ballistics on large game, includingmoose.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the45-70 load unique is itsability to be loaded for different firearms. In modern lever-action rifles like theWinchester 1886,this caliber can be loaded tofull-power levels, deliveringtremendous knockdown power. Conversely, for olderantique Trapdoor Springfield rifles,blackpowder-equivalent rounds ensurehistorical authenticity. Thestandard projectile ranges 45-70 ammo from300 to 500 grains, withexit velocities between1,300 and 1,700 fps.
Hunting and Practical Use
For thebig-game enthusiast,45-70 ammo excels inclose-to-medium-range scenarios. Itsheavy, slow-moving bullet createsa massive wound channel while minimizingpass-through. Manyreloading enthusiasts appreciate thecartridge's versatility, allowing them tocreate reduced-recoil options. Additionally,specialized ammunition like theHornady FTX offerings providecontrolled fragmentation at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
While45-70 ammo is not ascommon as 9mm or .223, it remainseasy to find from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices for45-70 rounds typically range from$1.75 to $2.50 per cartridge. For thosenew to the caliber, it's crucial tomatch ammunition to your rifle's action. Whether used forhunting, the45-70 round remains abeloved classic that bridgestraditional design with modern technology.