More than 150 years after its adoption by the U.S. military, the .45-70 Government is still very much at home in the field. In this Hole Story article, Andi Bogard takes a look at the enduring appeal of this straight-wall classic and how modern ammunition has helped unlock even more of its potential. From Hornady’s 325-grain FTX to the 410-grain Sub-X, she explores why the wonderfully whimsical .45-70 remains both a piece of shooting history and a force to be reckoned with as a modern ballistic choice.

The 45-70 – the whimsical workhorse of straight wall cartridges. 

There are a lot of straight wall ballistic options out there today and just as many reasons to take one out to play. Whether factoring in area restrictions, platform preference or whimsy, the straight wall world has a lot to offer. There is one in particular that holds a bit of an edge above the rest – both historically and today. I give you the 45-70 Government - the whimsical workhorse of straight wall cartridges. 

The 45-70 Government was adopted in 1873 by the U.S. military. Limited only by strength of the platform in which it was chambered, the 45-70 has persevered for over 150 years. While no longer utilized by the military, this cartridge has successfully engaged game across North America. But this is not strictly past tense. Let’s look at why.

What Makes for Ballistic Longevity?

Each year, newer, “better,” faster, higher-pressure cartridges are brought to market. While there are frequently advantages to many of these innovations, there is something to be said for adding modern elegance to a classic icon. That is exactly what Hornady did. 

With a respectful nod to classicality and a staunch focus on innovation, Hornady brought the 45-70 into even greater relevance. Recognizing the immense effectiveness of the chambering was curtailed by the rainbow-like trajectory of historical bullet offerings, Hornady applied their FTX bullets to the situation. And just like that, the 45-70 is no longer a dusty relic on the shelf, but rather a functional field companion with modern capabilities. 

This was accomplished in a couple of ways. The 45-70 Government historically appeared in a few different load iterations based on strength and integrity of platform. While the case dimensions and bullet diameters were identical, the pressures were definitely not. This was reflective of the guns of the time and the available powder options. 

One common theme throughout these different load levels was the necessary flat-nose bullet in anything other than the breech fed Model 1873 Springfield (this was the original military platform for the 45-70). This blunt-nosed projectile had the predicted impact on trajectory and effective distance.

The Lever Revolution 

Historically, the 45-70 has been limited by pressure tolerances of the platform it’s in. The strongest lock-up integrity for many years was in the Winchester 1886 and the Marlin 1895. Both lever guns, these platforms could successfully navigate the higher-pressure levels of the 45-70 but were constrained to the flat point bullet style. This narrative changed with Hornady’s FTX (Flex Tip) concept. 

Today, Hornady offers the 45-70 in a few different flavors, but I’m focusing on two. The first is the 325-grain FTX. With a 200-yard zero, this is 5.5 inches high at 100 with a muzzle velocity of 2000 FPS. This load has the capacity to meet and exceed the historical greatness of this classic cartridge. From whitetails or brown bears to moose, this load has the energy on target to be a strong and viable option in the field. 

The second ammo flavor we’re going to look at is the 410-grain Sub-X. I have recently gone down the peaceful path of subsonic ammunition. I’ve discovered it’s somewhat addictive! Fun fact: I don’t like noise… And yet somehow, I’m a gun writer… Subsonic ammo and suppressors have become my version of yoga or meditation. My range days are fabulous, but especially so when it involves subsonic ammo and/or suppressors.

The 45-70 is experiencing a surge in popularity for a couple of reasons. One is the increased production of modernized lever guns – rifles and carbines. With modern features and classic mechanisms, lever guns are bringing the past and present together with a satisfying “ka-chink.” 

The second is due to ammunition innovation – and Hornady is at the forefront. Thanks to their LEVERevolution brand, the FTX innovations and the increase in sub-sonic development, the 45-70 is making a defined comeback. The beauty and simplicity of a straight wall cartridge with enhanced trajectory in an iconic lever gun is too good to pass up. The Whimsical Workhorse of straight walls is a solid contender for my next adventure afield, thanks to Hornady.

Happy Hunting!

Andi