45-70  Ammo For Sale

When it comes to powerful and versatile ammunition, few cartridges can rival the 45-70 Ammo, commonly referred to as the .45-70. This iconic round has a rich history and remains popular among firearm enthusiasts for its considerable stopping power and adaptability in various shooting scenarios. 

1. A Historical Glimpse: Origins of the .45-70

45-70 Ammo traces its roots back to the late 19th century when the United States Army adopted it as the official Springfield Model 1873 “Trapdoor” rifle round. The name “45-70” reflects the caliber (.45 inches) and the black powder charge (70 grains) that the original cartridge contained. Initially, this ammunition was intended for military use, primarily for engaging hostile Native American tribes during the American Indian Wars.

2. Dimensions and Specifications

45-70 Ammo exhibits a rimmed, straight-walled design, making it suitable for single-shot and lever-action rifles. The standard bullet diameter for this cartridge is .458 inches, while its case length measures 2.105 inches. The rim diameter is approximately .608 inches, and the overall length typically varies between 2.55 and 2.75 inches, depending on the specific load and bullet type.

3. The Evolution of Ballistics

Historically, 45-70 utilized black powder as its propellant, delivering a muzzle velocity of around 1,350 feet per second (fps). However, smokeless powder replaced black powder as technology advanced, resulting in significant ballistic improvements. Modern loads can achieve velocities upwards of 2,000 fps with certain bullet types.

4. Bullet Types and Selection

45-70 ammo offers many bullet choices for shooting applications. The most common bullet types include:

• a. Lead Round Nose (LRN) – A classic design ideal for target shooting and plinking.
• b. Soft Point (SP) – Offers controlled expansion, making it suitable for hunting medium to large game.
• c. Hollow Point (HP) – Designed for maximum expansion and stopping power.
• d. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) – Primarily used for military and target shooting where penetration is critical.

Selecting the right bullet type depends on your intended use: hunting, target shooting, or personal defense.

5. Versatile Applications

The versatility of 45-70 ammo is one of its most appealing features. Its wide range of bullet types and power levels allows it to adapt to various shooting scenarios. Hunting is suitable for taking down games ranging from deer and hogs to larger animals like bears and bison. Additionally, it is a popular choice for hunting in brushy or densely wooded areas due to its ability to punch through obstacles.

6. Sporting and Target Shooting

Beyond its hunting applications, 45-70 ammo has gained popularity in sporting and target shooting. Lever-action rifles chambered in 45-70 ammo have found their way into various shooting competitions, where participants engage targets at different distances and angles. The challenge of hitting targets accurately with such a decisive round adds excitement and skill-building opportunities for shooters.

7. Recoil Management

With great power comes considerable recoil, and the .45-70 is no exception. When firing full-power loads, shooters must be prepared for significant kickback. Proper shooting techniques, such as a firm grip, controlled trigger pull, and a well-fitted rifle, are essential for managing recoil effectively and maintaining accuracy.

8. Handloading for Custom Performance

Handloading 45-70 ammo rewards those seeking even more versatility and customization. Handloading allows shooters to experiment with different bullet weights, powder charges, and primers to tailor the ammunition for specific shooting needs. However, following safe handloading practices and referring to reliable load data is crucial to avoid accidents.

9. The .45-70 in Modern Times

Despite being introduced over a century ago, the .45-70 ammo remains relevant. It has retained its popularity among hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts who appreciate its potent performance and historical significance. Moreover, ammunition manufacturers continue developing new loads and bullet designs, ensuring the cartridge’s relevance in contemporary shooting pursuits.