A Comprehensive Guide to 45 70 Government Ammo: Power, Precision, and Performance

The 45 70 Government ammo is revered for its power, heritage, and effectiveness. Developed in 1873 for military use, it quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooting enthusiasts for its versatility in hunting large game. Today, the .45-70 Government is a top choice among those looking for powerful, reliable ammunition that delivers impressive ballistics.

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The Basics of 45 70 Government Ammo

The .45-70 Government cartridge, sometimes referred to as simply 45-70 Government, features a large, heavy bullet that performs exceptionally well at medium ranges. Its design allows for controlled expansion and deep penetration, making it ideal for hunting and recreational shooting. 45-70 Government brass casings offer durability and consistency, which is critical for reloaders and those seeking reliable performance.

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Ballistics for .45-70 Government Ammo

The ballistics for 45-70 Government ammo make it highly suitable for hunting large game like deer, elk, and even bear. Here’s a breakdown of its ballistics performance:

• Velocity: Typically, the .45-70 Government has a muzzle velocity of around 1,300 to 2,000 feet per second (fps), depending on the load.
• Energy: Known for its stopping power, the .45-70 Government generates significant energy at close to medium ranges, often reaching over 2,000 foot-pounds.
• Trajectory: The .45-70 has a trajectory that drops significantly at longer distances due to its weight. Therefore, it is best suited for medium-range shooting, where it performs with optimal accuracy and power.

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Starline Brass for .45-70 Government Ammo

For those interested in reloading, Starline brass 45-70 Government is a top-quality choice. Known for its durability and precise dimensions, Starline brass is highly sought after by reloaders who want to achieve consistent performance. Reloading with Starline brass offers the following benefits:

• Longevity: Starline brass is known for its ability to withstand multiple reloads.
• Consistency: Each case is meticulously crafted to ensure uniform performance with every shot.
• Availability: Starline offers a variety of .45-70 brass options, making it accessible for a wide range of shooting needs.

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.45-70 Government vs. .30-30: A Comparison

When comparing 45-70 Government vs 30-30, it’s important to consider your shooting goals. Here’s how these calibers stack up:

• Power: The .45-70 Government is known for delivering more stopping power than the .30-30, making it suitable for larger game.
• Range: The .30-30 is effective at longer ranges with a flatter trajectory than the .45-70, making it a good choice for smaller game and open terrain.
• Versatility: While both cartridges are versatile, the .45-70 Government is often chosen for hunting large animals, whereas the .30-30 is preferred for medium-sized game.

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The Benefits of Using 45-70 Government Ammo for Hunting

Using 45-70 Government ammo provides distinct advantages, especially for hunters:

• Stopping Power: The .45-70 Government’s heavy bullet makes it effective for ethical hunting, offering a swift kill with proper shot placement.
• Penetration: This caliber is known for deep penetration, ideal for hunting large and thick-skinned animals.
• Reliable Performance: The combination of 45-70 Government brass and quality bullets ensures reliability in the field, even under tough conditions.

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Popular Types of .45-70 Government Ammo

There are several types of 45-70 Government ammo to consider, depending on your specific needs:

1. Standard Loads: Traditional loads deliver balanced performance for medium-range hunting.
2. High-Velocity Loads: These loads are designed for modern firearms, offering enhanced velocity for longer-range shots.
3. Specialty Loads: Specialized loads include options for deep penetration and high expansion, tailored for different game types.

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Reloading with .45-70 Government Brass

For those who enjoy reloading, 45-70 Government brass provides a durable option that can handle the cartridge’s power. Whether you’re using Starline or another brand, the key to success in reloading .45-70 Government ammo lies in selecting quality brass and precision tools.

Tips for Reloading 45 70 Government Ammo

• Select Quality Brass: Starline brass 45-70 Government is a popular choice due to its durability and consistent dimensions.
• Use the Right Powder: Different powders affect the velocity and recoil of your loads, so select a powder that complements your shooting style and firearm.
• Measure Carefully: Precision is critical in reloading; make sure to measure your powder charges carefully to ensure consistent performance.

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The 45 70 Government ammo remains a timeless and powerful option for hunting and shooting enthusiasts alike. With excellent ballistics, reliable performance, and a variety of load options, the .45-70 Government is a versatile choice. Whether you’re looking for factory-loaded ammo or prefer to reload using 45-70 Government brass, this caliber offers a rewarding experience with each shot. Whether you’re comparing 45-70 Government vs. 30-30 or choosing between different types of 45-70 Government ammo, you’ll find that the .45-70 Government is truly a classic cartridge that stands the test of time.