Is a 45 70 a good deer rifle?

Is a 45-70 a Good Deer Rifle?

The 45-70 has been a popular caliber among deer hunters for decades. With its reputation for flat trajectory, stopping power, and reliability, it’s no wonder many hunters opt for this caliber when faced with a deer hunt. But is a 45-70 a good deer rifle? Let’s dive into the details and explore the pros and cons of this iconic caliber.

History and Background

The 45-70 has its roots in the American West, where it was first introduced in the late 1800s. Initially designed for big game hunting, the caliber quickly gained popularity among cavalry units, who appreciated its stopping power and reliability in the face of charging horsemen. Today, the 45-70 remains a favorite among traditionalists and modern hunters alike, with many enthusiasts swearing by its effectiveness in taking down deer.

Ballistics and Trajectory

One of the key advantages of the 45-70 is its flat trajectory, which allows hunters to maintain a high degree of accuracy at longer ranges. A well-placed shot from a 45-70 can be counted on to drop a deer quickly, thanks to the caliber’s mild recoil and accurate velocity.

Here’s a breakdown of the 45-70‘s ballistics:

Hunters’ Expectations and Performance

When it comes to taking down deer, hunters often have high expectations for their rifle. After all, a successful hunt relies on accuracy, consistency, and stopping power. Here’s how the 45-70 performs in these areas:

Accuracy: The 45-70 is renowned for its accuracy, thanks to its precise bore and consistent rifling. With a good scope and proper ammunition, a hunter can expect sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy out to 200 yards.

Consistency: The 45-70‘s consistent performance is a result of its uniform barrel and precise chamber. This means that shooters can expect the same trajectory and penetration from shot to shot.

Stopping Power: The 45-70‘s stopping power comes from its high-velocity and enormous energy transfer. When a deer is hit with a 45-70, it tends to drop quickly and instantly.

Cons and Controversies

While the 45-70 has its fans, some hunters and experts have expressed concerns about the caliber’s over-penetration and large kinetic energy transfer. Some argue that the 45-70 can potentially waste an animal by over-penetrating its vital organs, rather than delivering a quick, humane kill. Others criticize the caliber for its muzzle flash and loud noise, which can startle or even spook animals.

Here are some arguments for and against the 45-70‘s use for deer hunting:

Pros:

• High stopping power
• Flat trajectory
• Mild recoil
• Adequate penetration
• Long-range accuracy

Cons:

• Over-penetration
• Large kinetic energy transfer
• Muzzle flash
• Loud noise

Hunters’ Experiences and Recommendations

To get a better understanding of the 45-70‘s effectiveness in the field, I spoke with several experienced deer hunters who have used this caliber in their hunts.

Recommendations:

• Use the right ammunition: Hunters should select hollow-point or expanding bullets to maximize stopping power and minimize over-penetration.
• Respect the caliber’s potential: Be aware of the 45-70‘s stopping power and take appropriate precautions to avoid over-penetrating the animal.
• Practice, practice, practice: To ensure accuracy and consistency, hunters should regularly practice shooting their 45-70 and understand its characteristics.

Conclusion

The 45-70 is a beloved caliber among deer hunters, and for good reason. Its flat trajectory, high stopping power, and consistent performance make it an effective choice for taking down deer at longer ranges. While there are some concerns about over-penetration and noise, hunters who understand and respect the caliber’s limitations can expect excellent results from their 45-70.