Review of the Hornady LeverEvolution .45-70 Government
As an avid shooter and outdoors enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady LeverEvolution .45-70 Government, a revolutionary new cartridge designed for lever-action rifles. In this review, I’ll share my experiences with this innovative product, highlighting its features, performance, and any pros and cons I encountered.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that struck me about the Hornady LeverEvolution .45-70 Government was its sleek and durable design. The cartridge case is made from high-quality brass, with a smooth, consistent finish that exudes quality. The precision-machined bullet is equally impressive, with a sleek, aerodynamic profile and a precisely-controlled weight distribution.
Performance
I had the opportunity to test the LeverEvolution .45-70 Government in various scenarios, from target shooting to hunting, and it consistently impressed me with its performance. Here are a few key observations:
- Accuracy: The cartridge consistently delivered sub-MOA accuracy, with many shots grouping within 1 inch at 100 yards.
- Expansion and penetration: The Hornady-designed Flex-Tip bullet excelled in expanding upon impact, with a stunning 2-3 inch expansion ratio and a retained weight of 120-130 grains.
- Range and velocity: The cartridge’s velocity was impressive, with an average velocity of 2,100 fps, delivering a strong kick and a satisfying report.
- Reliability: The LeverEvolution .45-70 Government functions flawlessly in my Marlin 1894, with zero issues or misfires.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Hornady LeverEvolution .45-70 Government:
- Pros:
- Outstanding accuracy and terminal performance
- Durable, high-quality construction
- Reliable and consistent function
- Loyal to its intended design (i.e., a lever-action cartridge)
- Inexpensive compared to other high-performance cartridges
- Cons:
- Limited availability (currently only compatible with certain lever-action rifles)
- New propriety bullet design may raise concerns for reloaders
- May not be suitable for all hunting situations (e.g., heavy game or long-range shots)
Conclusion
The Hornady LeverEvolution .45-70 Government has exceeded my expectations in every way. Its accuracy, expansion, and penetration make it an excellent choice for target shooting, hunting, and any situation where precise, controlled penetration is required. While there are some limitations to its use and availability, I wholeheartedly recommend the LeverEvolution .45-70 Government to anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance cartridge for their lever-action rifle.
Rating: 4.8/5 stars
