A Look Back at History
The 45-70 Government
The crack of a rifle echoing through the timber. The satisfying thump as a bullet finds its mark. For generations, hunters and firearms enthusiasts have found a primal thrill in the power and performance of big-bore cartridges. Among the most revered are the 44 Remington Magnum (44 Rem Mag) and the 45-70 Government (45-70). These two cartridges, with their distinctive histories and potent capabilities, have carved out niches in the world of hunting and shooting sports. This article will explore the strengths and weaknesses of each, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you determine which cartridge best suits your needs.
The 45-70 Government, a name synonymous with the American West, has a history steeped in military service and rugged adventure. Developed in the 1870s for the U.S. Army, it quickly became the standard issue cartridge for the legendary Springfield Model 1873 “Trapdoor” rifle. This single-shot rifle and its powerful cartridge saw action on battlefields and hunting grounds alike. The 45-70’s initial load used a massive, slow-moving bullet. It quickly earned a reputation for its ability to knock down everything from bison to grizzlies, making it a favorite among frontiersmen and hunters navigating the wilds. The cartridge’s simple, yet effective, design and its readily available black powder loadings contributed to its widespread adoption. Its legacy continues today, celebrated by enthusiasts for its power, historical significance, and nostalgic appeal.
The 44 Remington Magnum
The 44 Remington Magnum, on the other hand, is a more modern creation. Its origin story begins in the world of handguns. The demand for a more potent handgun round grew, and the 44 Rem Mag emerged from this need. It was essentially a lengthened and strengthened version of the .44 Special, designed to deliver significantly more power. Introduced in the late 1950s, the 44 Rem Mag quickly gained popularity for its impressive ballistics in revolvers. Its initial popularity was partly fueled by its appearance in popular culture, making it a symbol of handgun power. It quickly found its way into rifle platforms, including lever-action rifles, where it gained an even wider audience for its combination of manageable recoil and potent performance.
Comparing the Core: Ballistics Demystified
To understand the real differences between these two titans, we must delve into their ballistics. The fundamental ballistic principles govern a bullet’s flight and its impact on the target.
The first aspect to consider is the size and configuration of the cartridge. The 45-70 boasts a larger bullet diameter – a substantial .458 inches. The 44 Rem Mag, as the name implies, fires bullets with a diameter of .429 inches. This difference in diameter plays a significant role in penetration and overall damage potential.
Next is to consider the types of bullets available. Both the 44 Rem Mag and the 45-70 offer a wide range of bullet types. You’ll find soft points designed for controlled expansion, hollow points for rapid fragmentation, and even solid, hard-cast bullets for maximum penetration. The choice of bullet is critical in determining the terminal performance of either cartridge on game.
Velocity is the next key factor. This is how fast the bullet is traveling when it leaves the muzzle. The 44 Rem Mag, known for its higher chamber pressures, typically delivers higher muzzle velocities. This often translates to a flatter trajectory, particularly at longer ranges. However, the 45-70, especially with modern, high-performance loads, can also achieve impressive velocities, though usually with a heavier bullet.
Another key piece of data is the energy delivered to the target. This is calculated in terms of foot-pounds. The 45-70, even with loads traveling at slower speeds, is capable of generating significant kinetic energy, particularly with its heavier bullet weights. This energy is what is ultimately transferred to the target, creating a devastating impact. The 44 Rem Mag can deliver sufficient energy for hunting a variety of game, but it generally offers less kinetic energy.
Considering trajectory, each cartridge behaves differently across distances. The 44 Rem Mag, with its higher velocity, tends to have a flatter trajectory. This means the bullet drops less over distance. The 45-70, with its slower velocity and heavier bullet, exhibits a more pronounced bullet drop. This must be compensated for when aiming at extended ranges.
Performance in the Field: Hunting Applications
The ultimate test for any cartridge lies in its performance in the field, and the 44 Rem Mag and 45-70 both have their dedicated fan bases.
The 44 Rem Mag has become a favored choice for hunting medium-sized game. Its manageable recoil, relatively flat trajectory, and accuracy make it an excellent choice for deer hunting, black bear hunting, and other similar-sized game. Its effectiveness diminishes when facing larger, tougher game. It is also well-suited for use in both rifles and handguns. The ability to pack a powerful handgun in the woods for protection is something that has grown in popularity.
The 45-70, with its raw power and heavy bullets, excels in scenarios demanding deep penetration. This cartridge is exceptionally suited for taking down large and dangerous game. It is a top choice for hunting elk, moose, and bear. The 45-70’s robust ballistics allows it to punch through heavy bone and dense muscle with ease. While effective at close ranges, the 45-70’s drop at longer ranges must be accounted for. This makes it most effective when hunting in areas where longer shots are not needed.
The platform is also an important part of hunting. The 45-70 is most commonly found in lever-action rifles. These provide fast follow-up shots, ideal for quick encounters in dense cover. The 44 Rem Mag has a wider variety of platforms. It can be found in lever-action rifles, as well as bolt-action rifles and powerful revolvers.
The shooter’s comfort also plays a critical role. The 44 Rem Mag typically offers a more comfortable shooting experience, especially for extended periods. The recoil of the 45-70 is more substantial. This can be a factor, especially when new shooters are learning. Careful consideration of recoil and the ability to accurately and comfortably manage a firearm is critical for hunting success.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Assessment
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of each cartridge.
The 44 Rem Mag excels in the following ways:
- Recoil is typically less, making it more comfortable to shoot.
- A wider range of firearms is available.
- The effective range is often somewhat longer, thanks to a flatter trajectory.
- Ammunition prices are sometimes more affordable, contributing to lower overall costs.
However, it also has its drawbacks:
- Penetration can be less on larger, tougher game.
- Overall energy transfer is often lower than some 45-70 loads, particularly with factory loads.
The 45-70 presents its own unique set of strengths:
- The raw power and energy is great for taking down large game.
- It has excellent penetration due to its heavier bullets.
- Stopping power is unmatched.
And also has its downsides:
- Recoil is often more significant, which can deter some shooters.
- The trajectory is more curved.
- Ammunition can be more expensive.
Beyond the Basics: Reloading and Other Factors
Another factor to consider is reloading. Reloading allows shooters to tailor their ammunition to their specific needs. Both the 44 Rem Mag and the 45-70 are easily reloadable cartridges. Reloading can provide an opportunity to fine-tune loads. This allows for greater accuracy and performance.
Ammunition availability is a practical concern. 44 Rem Mag ammunition is readily found in most sporting goods stores. 45-70 ammunition is less common, but readily available through online retailers. The cost of both cartridges has increased in recent years. The price of reloading components is important to consider.
The 45-70, especially with modern loadings, often allows for heavier bullets and greater energy, although the trajectory can become a bit of an issue at long ranges. The 44 Rem Mag, with its flat trajectory and fast bullet is typically more forgiving at longer ranges. The best option is often a matter of what you value most.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Fit
Ultimately, the choice between the 44 Rem Mag and the 45-70 comes down to individual needs, preferences, and the type of hunting expected. The 44 Rem Mag is a great all-around choice for those looking for a manageable cartridge with ample power for deer and other medium-sized game. It’s a versatile round, particularly well-suited for hunters who prioritize comfortable shooting and longer-range accuracy.
The 45-70 is a powerful round best suited for hunters who need maximum knockdown power for large and potentially dangerous game, or who primarily hunt in close cover. Its historical appeal and incredible power make it a favorite. The experienced shooter will also appreciate this round.
Both of these cartridges have earned their place in the history of hunting and shooting. Understanding their individual characteristics is the key to making the right choice. Whichever cartridge you choose, you’ll be part of a long and proud tradition.
