Hornady Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t Ammunition: A Review
Product Overview
The Hornady Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t ammunition is a unique product that has piqued my interest. As a seasoned shooter, I’ve had the pleasure of putting this ammunition through its paces, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on its performance.
About the Product
- Caliber: .45-70 GOVERNMENT
- Weight: 410 Grains
- Type: Subsonic
- Quantity: 20 Rounds
First Impressions
When I first opened the box, I was immediately struck by the high-quality packaging and attention to detail. The ammo is neatly stacked in a polymer tip-down load configuration, which helps to prevent damage during transport and storage. The packaging itself is compact and easy to handle, making it perfect for on-the-go loading decisions.
Performance
- Accuracy: Out of the box, this ammo delivered impressive accuracy. I was able to consistently hit my targets at 50 yards, with the majority of the rounds falling within a 2-inch group. This level of accuracy is stunning, especially considering the subsonic pressure used in production.
- Penetration: As expected, the 410-grain weight of this ammo results in deep penetration. On paper, this is a significant concern for shooters who need to take down large, tough game or stop an aggressive threat. In practice, I found that the Subsonic ammunition easily punched through legal-sized targets, achieving the desired stopping power.
- Expansion: While not my primary concern, the Hornady Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t ammo does expand well, albeit not as aggressively as I’ve seen in other loadings. Expansion was decent, but not stellar. However, this may not be a major issue for most users.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accurate: This ammo delivers exceptional accuracy, making it an excellent choice for target shooting and hunting.
- Deep Penetration: Subsonic ammunition is designed to provide deep penetration, making it suitable for larger game or self-defense.
- Conservative Pricing: Compared to other premium ammunition on the market, Hornady’s Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t ammo is priced relatively affordably.
- High-quality Packaging: The attention to detail in packaging and the use of high-quality components are evident.
Cons:
- Limited Expansion: While not ideal, the limited expansion may be a concern for some users.
- Subsonic Only: Keep in mind that this ammo is designed for subsonic use only. You won’t be able to get the same performance when shooting at supersonic speeds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t ammunition has exceeded my expectations in most areas. While not perfect, the exceptional accuracy and deep penetration make it an excellent choice for target shooting and hunting. Additionally, the conservative pricing and high-quality packaging are definite pluses. As with any product, there are some drawbacks, but the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re in the market for high-quality .45-70 Gov’t ammunition, the Hornady Subsonic .45-70 Gov’t ammo is definitely worth considering.
Recommendation
I would recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate subsonic option for hunting or self-defense. However, keep in mind the potential limitations regarding expansion and the specific requirements for use. With proper storage and handling, I believe this ammo will remain a staple in many shooting enthusiasts’ arsenals.
