The 45-70 Round: A Timeless Legend in Modern Ammunition

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, thisbig-bore round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into areliable survival tool. Today,this classic round is prized for itsunmatched terminal ballistics on large game, includingbear.

Performance and Ballistics

What makes the45-70 load unique is itsflexibility across pressure levels. In modern lever-action rifles like theHenry Big Boy,this caliber can be loaded tohigher pressures, deliveringsubstantial kinetic force. Conversely, for olderoriginal 1873 rifles,low-pressure loads ensuresafe operation. Thecommon grain ranges from305 to 405 grains, withexit velocities between1,100 and 1,900 fps.

Hunting and Practical Use

For themodern hunter,the 45-70 round excels inclose-to-medium-range scenarios. Itslarge-diameter projectile createsexcellent tissue damage while minimizingrisk to bystanders. Manyhandloaders appreciate theround's reloading potential, allowing them todevelop subsonic rounds. Additionally,defensive loads like theBuffalo Bore offerings provideexceptional expansion at various distances.

Availability and Considerations

Whilethe 45-70 round 45-70 Government is not ascheap as popular rifle rounds, it remainseasy to find from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices for45-70 rounds typically range from$1.75 to $2.50 per cartridge. For thoselooking to expand their collection, it's crucial tomatch ammunition to your rifle's action. Whether used fortarget shooting, the45-70 round remains abeloved classic that bridgesold-school power and contemporary reliability.