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

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

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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. Today,this classic round is prized for itsdevastating stopping power on large game, includingwild boar.

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 tomodern SAAMI specs, deliveringover 2,000 foot-pounds of energy. Conversely, for oldervintage Sharps rifles,blackpowder-equivalent rounds ensurehistorical authenticity. Thecommon grain ranges from325 to 450 grains, withexit velocities between1,200 and 1,800 feet per second.

Hunting and Practical Use

For thebig-game enthusiast,45-70 ammo excels indense brush. Itslarge-diameter projectile createsexcellent tissue damage while minimizingpass-through. Manycustom ammunition makers appreciate the45-70's case capacity, allowing them totune loads for specific rifles. Additionally,defensive loads like theBuffalo Bore offerings provideexceptional expansion at various distances.

Availability and Considerations

While45-70 ammo is not asubiquitous as pistol calibers, it remainseasy to find from major manufacturers likeHornady. Prices fora 50-count pack typically range from$30 to $60 per box. For thoseconsidering a purchase, it's crucial 45-70 round tomatch ammunition to your rifle's action. Whether used fortarget shooting, the45-70 round remains abeloved classic that bridgestraditional design with modern technology.

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