Is the 45-70 a Good Deer Rifle?
The .45-70 government has been a favorite among deer hunters for centuries. This iconic cartridge, with its rich history, has undergone numerous transformations since its inception in the 1870s. Throughout the years, the 45-70 has received mixed reviews regarding its performance as a deer rifle. So, is the 45-70 a good deer rifle? Let’s dive into the details.
Historical Background
The .45-70 government was born in the late 1870s as a direct response to the need for a powerful, reliable cartridge for the U.S. Army. Designed by Oliver Winchester and Edward Allen Bishop, this cartridge was primarily used in the .45-70 Springfield, a popular rifle among frontiersmen and lawmen. Over time, the 45-70 gained popularity as a deer rifle, offering impressive terminal performance and robust reliability.
Pros
Despite being an older cartridge, the 45-70 offers several advantages that make it a viable option for deer hunting:
• Massive recoil: The.45-70’s generous powder load and heavy projectiles create an impressive recoil signature, often described as energetic. For some, this is an advantage, allowing them to feel the recoil and stay focused on their shot.
• Ballistic efficiency: The cartridge’s slower velocity ( approx. 1,400 ft/s) and massive sectional density (SD) allow it to maintain trajectory integrity and deliver devastating performance on deer-sized game. The slower velocity also permits more generous sight radius adjustment.
• Terminal ballistics: The 405-grain .450 Barnes, a popular expanding bullet for the 45-70, boasts remarkable terminal performance, with consistent expansion and deep penetration (>10 inches).
• Robust reliability: Ruger No.1, Marlin Ballard, and Winchester 1886 (and its variants) exemplify the 45-70’s reliability, tolerating a wide range of shooting conditions and environmental stressors.
• Ample factory support: There is an abundance of premium ammunition from top manufacturers (e.g., Buffalo Bore, Nosler, Safariland) suitable for hunting, offering versatile bullet selection and performance data.
Cons
Before proclaiming the 45-70 a perfect deer rifle, it’s crucial to consider the following downsides:
• Heavier: With an average mass of 12-18 ounces (340-510g), the rifle and barrel can be too heavy for some hunters.
• Longer twist: To stabilize the bullet’s long, heavy ogive, the barrel has to have a 7.5-8° twist or more. This longer twist can generate additional pressure and heat when shooting higher velocity loads, affecting the rifle’s life and performance.
• Rugged handling: When using powerful loads, hunters should exercise caution when manipulating the rifle, as they might risk damaging the cartridge’s base or the primer, especially when handling on the gun’s left (loader) side.
• Limited modern rifle variants: Marlin Ballard, Winchester 1886, and the like have limited modern analogues or production runs compared to newer cartridges, although this issue is slowly alleviated.
• Component scarcity: Some parts or specialized accessories (e.g., replacement barrels, stock spacers) might require specific research or sourcing.
• Ammunition storage: Due to its significant powder load and the danger of accidental combustion, 45-70 cartridges demand proper storage procedures, adhering to minimum guidelines.
• Sub-optimal for long range: Given its relatively short effective range (200-250 yards), the 45-70 is most effective in close to mid-range shooting scenarios.
A Comprehensive Comparison
| **Cartridge** | **Rifle** | **Weight (approx.)** | **Recoil (approx.)** |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45-70 gov. | .45-70 Springfield | 12.6 oz (357 g) | 25-28 ft-lbs (33-38 J) |
| 30-06 Sprg. | Browning 30-06 | 7.4 oz (210 g) | 16-20 ft-lbs (22-27 J) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the.45-70 government presents an interesting case for those considering it as a deer rifle. While it features robust performance, reliability, and versatility, it has several downsides, most notably the heavy recoil and the risk of component damage during handling. For enthusiasts who are willing to contend with these limitations, there is still a wealth of factory support, diverse ammunition selection, and various rifles on the market for sale or trade-in. Ultimately, as a good deer rifle, the 45-70 strikes a balanced scorecard, offering competitive terminal performance, reliability, and traditional appeal, offset by drawbacks related to component durability and handling.
Consider this as a starting point for further research and your personal exploration of the world of the 45-70 as a deer rifle. Will you join the ranks of those who trust the classic.45-70, or will a more modern cartridge win the spot?
