Performance and Versatility of .45-70 Government Bullets

The .45-70 Government is a centerfire rifle cartridge originally introduced in the late 19th century. It remains in use today for target shooting, recreational range activities, and lawful sporting use where permitted by local regulations. When you buy at Pro Hunting Range, you are choosing a historic caliber defined by its performance. The cartridge name reflects its origins: “.45” refers to the approximate bullet diameter, and “70” originally referred to the historical black-powder charge designation.

When shooters refer to .45-70 Government bullets, they often mean the projectile itself, although a complete cartridge also includes the case, primer, and propellant. Commercial .45-70 ammunition is available in a range of bullet weights and projectile styles to suit your specific firearm needs.

Available Bullet Specifications

To ensure you find the right ammunition when you buy at Pro Hunting Range, consider the following weight categories:

Lighter bullet weights are available in selected commercial loads, while mid-weight options remain common across traditional offerings. Heavier bullet options above 405 grain are produced for applications requiring different ballistic characteristics.

Common Projectile Configurations

Our selection of premium hunting gear includes various projectile types. You can buy .45-70 Government bullets in the following common configurations:

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Used in some general range applications.
• Soft Point (SP): Offered in multiple sporting configurations.
• Hollow Point (HP): Available in selected commercial loads.
• Specialized modern projectile designs: Produced by different manufacturers depending on intended use.

Ballistic Considerations and Safety

Performance characteristics such as velocity, recoil, trajectory, and retained energy can vary substantially depending on bullet weight, barrel length, ammunition loading, and firearm configuration. Because .45-70 Government ammunition is produced in different pressure and performance ranges depending on firearm compatibility, users should always verify firearm chamber markings, manufacturer guidance, and applicable local laws. Always follow safe handling and secure storage practices. When you buy at Pro Hunting Range, ensure you match your choice of projectile with your rifle’s specific requirements to achieve the best results in the field or at the range.