The45-70 round is one of the most enduring and versatilerifle cartridges 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 aversatile sporting cartridge. Today,45-70 ammo is prized for itsunmatched terminal ballistics on large game, includingwild boar.
Performance and Ballistics
What makes the45-70 round unique is itsrange of power from mild to wild. In modern lever-action rifles like theMarlin 1895,45-70 ammo can be loaded tohigher pressures, deliveringover 2,000 foot-pounds of energy. Conversely, for olderantique Trapdoor Springfield rifles,reduced-velocity ammunition ensurepreservation of the firearm. Thetypical bullet weight ranges from305 to 405 grains, withmuzzle velocities between1,100 and 1,900 fps.
Hunting and Practical Use
For theoutdoorsman,the 45-70 round excels indense brush. Itslarge-diameter 45-70 ammo projectile createsa massive wound channel while minimizingrisk to bystanders. Manycustom ammunition makers appreciate theround's reloading potential, allowing them todevelop subsonic rounds. Additionally,defensive loads like theLehigh Defense offerings providereliable performance at various distances.
Availability and Considerations
While45-70 ammo is not ascheap as popular rifle rounds, it remainsin steady production from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices for45-70 rounds typically range from$1.75 to $2.50 per cartridge. For thoseconsidering a purchase, it's crucial toverify pressure ratings. Whether used forpersonal defense, the45-70 round remains alegendary cartridge that bridgestraditional design with modern technology.