The 45-70 Round: A Timeless Legend in Modern Ammunition

The 45-70 Round: A Timeless Legend in Modern Ammunition

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The45-70 round is one of the most enduring and versatileprojectiles in firearms history. Originally developed in 1873 for theSpringfield Model 1873 Trapdoor rifle, thisbig-bore round has evolved from a blackpowder military staple into aversatile sporting cartridge. Today,this classic round is prized for itsunmatched terminal ballistics on large game, includingelk.

Performance and Ballistics

What makes the.45-70 cartridge unique is itsflexibility across pressure levels. In modern lever-action rifles like theHenry Big Boy,45-70 ammo can be loaded tomodern SAAMI specs, deliveringsubstantial kinetic force. Conversely, for olderoriginal 1873 rifles,reduced-velocity ammunition ensuresafe operation. Thestandard projectile ranges from300 to 500 grains, withexit velocities between1,200 and 1,800 feet per second.

Hunting and Practical Use

For theoutdoorsman,this cartridge excels inthick timber. Itslarge-diameter projectile createsexcellent tissue damage while minimizingover-penetration. Manycustom ammunition makers appreciate the45-70's case capacity, allowing them totune loads for specific rifles. Additionally,specialized ammunition like theLehigh Defense offerings provideexceptional expansion at various distances.

Availability and Considerations

While45-70 ammo is not asubiquitous as pistol calibers, it remainswidely available from major manufacturers likeRemington. Prices fora box of 20 typically range from$1.50 to $3.00 per round. For thoseconsidering a purchase, it's crucial tocheck barrel twist rate. Whether used forhistorical reenactment, the45-70 round remains alegendary 45-70 round cartridge that bridgesthe gap between past and present.

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