Frequently Asked Questions
Federal 45-70 Ammo for Sale
Will a 45-70 stop a grizzly?
Yes, .45-70 can stop a grizzly. Use modern high-pressure loads—not mild Trapdoor-era ammunition—with heavy, deep-penetrating bullets from companies like Hornady or DoubleTap. Shot placement remains critical. Many guides and hunters consider it adequate for brown bear at close range.
What is the most accurate 45-70 ammo?
Accuracy varies by rifle, but Hornady LEVERevolution and Barnes VOR-TX consistently perform well. Heavier 300-325 grain loads often produce tighter groups. Testing multiple loads in your specific rifle is the only reliable way to determine which shoots most accurately.
What is the killing range of a 45-70?
Effective hunting range is typically 150–200 yards for most shooters, with skilled marksmen pushing to 250–300 yards. Significant bullet drop beyond 150 yards makes it best suited for woods hunting and close-range work. Rifles like the Marlin 1895 perform well within these distances.
Is 45-70 enough for elk?
Yes. The .45-70 is capable of taking elk reliably within 200 yards using quality loads such as Hornady LEVERevolution or Barnes VOR-TX. Shot placement is critical. Know your rifle's limitations and practice at your intended hunting distances before the season.
How much does a box of 45-70 Government cost?
A box of 45-70 Government ammo typically costs around $45–$76, averaging about $58 per box depending on brand and bullet weight. Per-round costs average $2.30–$2.50.
What is the best distance to zero a 45-70?
Most hunters zero at 100 yards for a balanced point-blank range out to roughly 150 yards with standard loads. If your longest shots run under 100 yards, a 50-yard zero works fine. Start at 25 yards to get on paper, then move to your intended distance for final adjustments.
What is the best 45-70 bullet for whitetail deer?
For whitetail deer, the Hornady LEVERevolution 250-grain FTX and Barnes 300-grain TSX are top choices. Both expand reliably at lever-action velocities and penetrate well without excessive meat damage. Federal Hammer Down is another solid option for shots through heavy brush or shoulder bone.
What is the best ammo for 45-70 gov?
Best choice depends on your rifle and intended use. Hornady LEVERevolution works well in lever-actions. Barnes VOR-TX and Buffalo Bore are strong hunting options. For older single-shot rifles, use lower-pressure loads. Match ammunition to your specific firearm and quarry for best results.
What is a 45-70 round compared to?
The .45-70 Government is often compared to the .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester for big game hunting, but the .30-06 delivers significantly more energy — about 865 ft-lbs more than the .45-70. Despite this gap, the .45-70 remains a capable hunting round, traditionally paired with lever-action rifles.
What are the disadvantages of using a 45-70?
Recoil is substantial and can be punishing during extended shooting sessions. Effective hunting range tops out around 250 yards with the right ammunition and practice. Ammunition costs more than common rifle rounds. Lever-action magazines limit capacity. Bullet drop beyond 100 yards is significant compared to modern centerfire cartridges.
Is a 45-70 more powerful than a 30-06?
At close range, the .45-70 delivers more energy with heavier bullets. Beyond 100 yards, the .30-06 pulls ahead due to superior velocity and energy retention. Choose .45-70 for brush hunting and bear defense; pick .30-06 for longer-range shots.
Which is more powerful, 44 mag or 45-70?
.45-70 is more powerful. It delivers significantly more energy and penetration than .44 Magnum, especially with modern loads. .44 Magnum is a handgun cartridge suited for shorter-range use. .45-70 is preferred for large or dangerous game hunting.
Does a 45-70 kick harder than a 308?
Yes, .45-70 generates significantly more recoil than .308 Winchester. Expect roughly 28-32 foot-pounds from .45-70 versus 16-20 from .308. The .45-70's heavier bullet produces a slower, harder push, while .308 recoil feels sharper but briefer. Platform matters—lever-action .45-70s kick noticeably harder than semi-auto .308s.
How much does a 45-70 drop at 100 yards?
Drop depends on your zero and load. If sighted in at 100 yards, drop is near zero at that distance. If zeroed at 200 yards, expect roughly 7 inches high at 100 yards. Heavier, slower loads drop more than lighter, faster ones.
What animals can you hunt with a 45-70?
The .45-70 is effective on deer, elk, moose, black bear, and wild hog. Hunters also use it for brown bear and bison. With modern loads, it handles most North American big game reliably within 200 yards.