A Historical Perspective: Roots of a Legend
Origins
The 45-70 Government cartridge. The mere mention conjures images of buffalo hunts, legendary lever-action rifles, and a bygone era of frontier grit. From its origins in the late nineteenth century, this cartridge has remained a favorite among hunters and enthusiasts. It is a testament to simple, effective design, that continues to find its way into the hands of hunters decades after its inception. For many, the 45-70 isn’t just a cartridge; it’s a symbol of hunting heritage. However, in a world of modern, high-velocity cartridges, is the venerable 45-70 still a valid choice for taking on the challenge of elk hunting? This article will delve into the world of 45-70 for Elk, exploring its capabilities, limitations, and ultimately, assessing its place in the contemporary hunting scene.
Expansion
To truly understand the 45-70, we must first journey back to its origins. Born out of a need for a more powerful and accurate cartridge for the US Army, the 45-70 was adopted in as the standard issue round for the Springfield Model rifle. The “45” referred to the caliber of the bullet, .45 inches. The “70” indicated the amount of black powder, in grains, packed behind the bullet. A hefty slug, propelled by a substantial charge of powder, the 45-70 quickly proved itself as a formidable weapon.
Civilian Use
With the end of the Civil War and the settling of the American West, the 45-70 rapidly found favor among civilian hunters. Buffalo hunters, seeking a powerful cartridge to take down the massive herds, quickly adopted the 45-70. Its ability to deliver a heavy bullet with significant impact made it a favorite for bringing down even the toughest game animals. The advent of rifles like the Sharps, with their reliable single-shot actions, further solidified the 45-70’s reputation for accuracy and knockdown power. The cartridge helped open the West.
Legacy
The cartridge’s popularity extended throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. As the West was transformed and different hunting methods arose, the 45-70 for Elk remained a go-to choice among hunters. It continued to be used to take down elk, deer, and other big game. Modern hunting practices and advancements in cartridge design had diminished its prominence; however, it remains a respected cartridge to this day.
Unpacking the Ballistics: Examining the Numbers
Bullet Weight
One of the primary considerations when evaluating 45-70 for Elk is the cartridge’s ballistics. This involves understanding the trajectory, velocity, and energy of the bullet. The 45-70 isn’t about screaming speeds. Instead, it relies on a heavy bullet and brute force.
Typically, the 45-70 fires bullets ranging from 300 to 405 grains, with a few even heavier loads available. The most common bullet weights used for elk hunting are often in the 300 to 405 grain range. The higher the weight, the more retained energy.
Velocity and Energy
Muzzle velocities for the 45-70 vary depending on the load, but generally, bullets leave the barrel at speeds between 1300 and 1800 feet per second. In contrast to many modern cartridges that boast velocities exceeding 3000 feet per second, the 45-70’s performance is more moderate. This difference in velocity, however, is not necessarily an indicator of the cartridge’s effectiveness, although the trajectory is affected.
The energy delivered by the 45-70 bullet is substantial, particularly at shorter ranges. Energy at the muzzle can range from around 1500 to 2500 foot-pounds, which is comparable to some of the more popular big-game cartridges. The energy that reaches the target is directly correlated to the bullet weight. The heavier the bullet, the more energy it carries. The energy is what is necessary to bring down a big game animal.
Trajectory and Wind Drift
One of the most important considerations when shooting 45-70 for Elk is trajectory. Due to the bullet’s weight and moderate velocity, the 45-70 exhibits a relatively curved trajectory. This means the bullet drops more noticeably over distance compared to flatter-shooting cartridges. This drop requires hunters to accurately estimate range and adjust their aim accordingly. Depending on the load and the conditions, a hunter can expect a drop of several inches over the distance of 200 yards or more.
Another factor to take into account is wind drift. When taking long shots, the wind can move a bullet significantly. The heavier bullet used in the 45-70 cartridge does not deflect from the wind as much as some other rounds, but it will still be affected. Knowing and understanding wind drift is an important skill when using 45-70 for Elk.
Weighing the Options: The Pros and Cons
Advantages
Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of using 45-70 for Elk to get a clearer picture of its place in modern hunting.
One of the main advantages of the 45-70 is its stopping power. The cartridge delivers a bullet with a large diameter, which, when coupled with a high impact energy, has the potential to cause significant damage. This massive bullet can reliably penetrate through bone and muscle, transferring energy directly to the target. The energy transfer typically results in a quick and effective kill, provided that the hunter makes a good shot.
The 45-70 has been used to penetrate thick hide and muscle effectively due to the bullet’s design. The wide, heavy bullets can deliver the necessary force to create a large wound channel, resulting in hemorrhaging and vital organ damage. This is especially important for elk hunting, as elk are tough animals. The right bullet, constructed for proper expansion and weight retention, can ensure deep penetration, ensuring that the shot will achieve its objective.
While the 45-70 packs a punch, its recoil is generally considered manageable compared to some of the larger magnum cartridges. Recoil is a factor that impacts the shooter’s ability to maintain accuracy and take follow-up shots. Hunters can comfortably manage the recoil without fear of flinching. Hunters also report more shooting enjoyment compared to some of the more powerful magnum calibers.
The 45-70 is also a very versatile cartridge. While some cartridges are designed for particular game or specific applications, the 45-70 is a more general purpose hunting tool. It can be employed in different environments. It can be used in thick timber, where shots may be relatively short and the need for a flatter trajectory is less critical.
Another benefit to using 45-70 for Elk is the nostalgia. The cartridge has a legendary reputation. Hunting with a 45-70 allows hunters to connect with a rich hunting heritage. Owning and shooting a rifle chambered in this cartridge can provide a unique and satisfying experience, bringing a blend of tradition and enjoyment to the hunt.
The supply of 45-70 ammunition is a favorable aspect for hunters. Though not as common as cartridges such as .30-06 or .308 Winchester, ammunition and components for the 45-70 are still readily available from a wide range of manufacturers. This means hunters can easily find factory loads or have a wide variety of bullets and powders to reload for the cartridge.
Disadvantages
Now, let’s discuss the downsides of choosing 45-70 for Elk.
One of the greatest weaknesses of the 45-70 is its comparatively limited effective range. As mentioned earlier, the curved trajectory of the bullet means that hunters have to be very skilled at range estimation. The bullet drops significantly over distance. Hunters must know their effective maximum range. This usually falls in the 200 to 300-yard range. Shots past this distance become increasingly difficult to make accurately.
The bullet drop also has its effects on aiming. Hunters must learn to compensate by calculating bullet drop and wind drift. The need for accurate aim requires considerable skill. This may not be the best cartridge for beginners.
Another factor to consider is that the ballistic profile of the 45-70 cartridge is not ideal for making long-range shots. It requires careful attention to bullet selection. Hunters should select a bullet construction designed for proper expansion and penetration at 45-70 velocities. The most common bullet types used are flat-nosed or round-nosed. Hunters should be very familiar with how the bullet functions in their rifle.
Selecting the Right Gear: Rifles and Ammo
Rifle Types
The selection of the right rifle and ammunition is critical when using 45-70 for Elk. Both the rifle and bullet choice need to be optimized for a safe and effective hunt.
There are several rifle types available that chamber the 45-70. Lever-action rifles have maintained a strong following for this cartridge, primarily due to their rapid cycling. They are known for their balance and feel. Famous lever actions include those made by Marlin and Henry. They tend to be maneuverable, making them well-suited for hunting in timber and dense cover.
Single-shot rifles, such as the Ruger No. 1, also offer exceptional accuracy and can handle a wide variety of 45-70 loads. These rifles typically have strong actions. Single-shot rifles are frequently used for target shooting and hunting. The single-shot provides a rugged design for those who are more used to the shot-per-shot type of rifles.
Rifle Considerations
Considerations such as barrel length and twist rate can greatly affect performance. The longer barrel lengths generally provide better velocity and energy. The twist rate affects bullet stability. Rifles with faster twist rates can stabilize the heavier bullets. Hunters should select a rifle with a twist rate that is suitable for the bullet weight they intend to use.
Sighting systems are another crucial factor. Iron sights can be effective at short to moderate ranges. For a better hunting experience, a scope is often a good option. When selecting a scope, hunters should consider the magnification range, reticle type, and light-gathering capabilities. The choice will depend on the hunting conditions.
Ammunition Choice
The ammo used is also vital. The correct bullet weight can have a significant impact on performance. For elk, bullets in the 300 to 405 grain range are usually best. The weight and design of the bullet should match the hunting conditions and personal preferences.
The selection of the right bullet type is essential for elk hunting. The choices include bonded core bullets, designed for maximum weight retention and penetration. Solid copper bullets are also a good choice. The hunter needs to select the bullet and load that fits their intended hunting application.
Ethical Hunting and Responsible Practices
Shot Placement
When hunting 45-70 for Elk, ethical practices are critical. This is especially true given the cartridge’s limitations.
Accurate shot placement is critical. The hunter should aim for the vital organs. Heart and lung shots cause rapid incapacitation and humane kills.
Range Awareness
The hunter must understand and respect the cartridge’s limitations. The hunter must be aware of the bullet’s trajectory and effective range. He or she must ensure that shots are only taken at ranges where the shooter is confident in placing an accurate shot.
Careful range estimation is a must. It’s important to use a rangefinder or practice range estimation skills. This will help the hunter determine the appropriate distance for the shot.
Practice
It is essential to practice with the rifle and ammunition. Become familiar with how the rifle functions, the bullet’s trajectory, and the impact at various ranges. The hunter must know how to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift.
Regulations and Safety
Finally, follow all hunting regulations. Hunters should also prioritize safety at all times.
Comparison: A Look at Other Cartridges
When weighing the option of using 45-70 for Elk, it is helpful to compare it to other popular elk cartridges. This allows hunters to assess the cartridge’s strengths and weaknesses in the context of a wide range of hunting options.
Cartridges like the .30-06 Springfield and the .300 Winchester Magnum are commonly used for elk. The .30-06 offers good versatility and flatter trajectories. The .300 Winchester Magnum provides greater range and flatter trajectories. Compared to the 45-70, these cartridges offer flatter trajectories and higher velocities. The 45-70 is more of a close to mid-range cartridge, optimized for shots within a certain range. The other options are much better for the longer ranges.
The 7mm Remington Magnum is also very popular. It delivers a good balance of flat trajectory and retained energy. It will outperform the 45-70.
Final Thoughts: A Viable Choice?
So, is the 45-70 a viable choice for elk hunting? The answer is: It depends.
It is important to acknowledge that the 45-70 has certain limitations. Its relatively short effective range and curved trajectory mean that it’s not the best choice for long-range shots. The hunter must be comfortable with the cartridge’s limitations.
However, the 45-70 for Elk still has a place in the modern hunting world. If the hunter understands the ballistics, practices diligently, and respects the cartridge’s limitations, it can be an effective choice, especially at shorter ranges in areas with thick cover. It is important to prioritize shot placement.
The hunter needs to choose a rifle and ammunition that matches the hunting conditions and the hunter’s personal goals. The decision to use the 45-70 should be based on an honest evaluation of one’s own skill level and the type of hunting environment one expects to encounter. If you seek a cartridge with a long history, that packs a powerful punch, and that will challenge you, the 45-70 may be a good option. Remember, responsible hunting is paramount. Know your limits, respect the game, and always prioritize safety. The 45-70 can provide a truly rewarding hunting experience. It’s a great choice for hunters who embrace tradition and appreciate the simplicity of a well-designed cartridge.
