Are you looking for a powerful and reliable rifle cartridge that can handle big game hunting?
Look no further than the 45-110 and 45-70.
Both of these cartridges have been popular for over a century and continue to be used by hunters and shooters around the world.
In this article, we will compare the 45-110 vs 45-70 and help you decide which one is better suited for your needs.
Introduction
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a brief look at the history and background of both cartridges. The 45-70 was developed in the late 1800s for use in the Springfield Model 1873 rifle. It quickly gained popularity among hunters and soldiers alike due to its impressive stopping power and accuracy. The 45-110, on the other hand, was introduced a few years later and was designed specifically for long-range shooting and big game hunting.
Cartridge Design
The 45-70 and 45-110 have similar cartridge designs, with both using a rimmed, straight-walled case. However, there are some differences in overall length, bullet weight, and powder capacity. The 45-110 has a longer case length of 2.75 inches, compared to the 2.105 inches of the 45-70. This longer case allows for more powder capacity and, therefore, higher velocities and greater energy.
Ballistics
When it comes to ballistics, the 45-110 has a clear advantage over the 45-70. The 45-110 can fire heavier bullets at a higher velocity, resulting in more kinetic energy and greater stopping power. The 45-70, while still a powerful cartridge, cannot match the ballistics of the 45-110. However, the 45-70 does have a flatter trajectory, making it more suitable for shorter-range shooting.
Recoil
The increased power of the 45-110 does come with a downside: recoil. The 45-110 has significantly more recoil than the 45-70, making it more difficult to shoot accurately. This recoil can also cause fatigue and discomfort during prolonged shooting sessions. If you are sensitive to recoil or do not have experience shooting heavy-caliber rifles, the 45-70 may be a better choice.
Availability and Cost
Both the 45-70 and 45-110 are widely available and can be found at most gun stores and online retailers. However, the 45-110 is a less common cartridge and may be harder to find in some areas. Additionally, the 45-110 tends to be more expensive than the 45-70 due to its larger case size and greater power.
Hunting and Shooting Applications
The 45-70 and 45-110 are both excellent choices for hunting and shooting, but they excel in different areas. The 45-70 is better suited for shorter-range shooting and is a popular choice for hunting in thick brush and dense forests. The 45-110, on the other hand, is better suited for long-range shooting and open terrain. It is a popular choice for hunting large game such as elk and moose.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 45-110 and 45-70 are both excellent rifle cartridges with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 45-110 has greater ballistics and stopping power but comes with increased recoil and cost. The 45-70 is more widely available and suitable for shorter-range shooting but lacks the power of the 45-110. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
FAQs
- Is the 45-110 legal for hunting? Yes, the 45-110 is legal for hunting in many states and countries, but it’s always important to check local regulations before hunting with any firearm.
- Can the 45-70 be used for long-range shooting? While the 45-70 is not as well-suited for long-range shooting as the 45-110, it can still be effective at moderate distances with the right load and setup.
- What type of game is the 45-70 best suited for? The 45-70 is a versatile cartridge that can be used for hunting a variety of game, including deer, black bear, and wild hogs.
- Can the recoil of the 45-110 be managed with a muzzle brake or recoil pad? Yes, a muzzle brake or recoil pad can help reduce the felt recoil of the 45-110 and make it more manageable to shoot.
- Which cartridge is more popular among hunters and shooters? The 45-70 is more widely used and popular among hunters and shooters, mainly due to its availability and lower cost compared to the 45-110. However, both cartridges have their devoted followers and are effective for their intended purposes.