45-70 RIFLE for Sale

Quick Look

The .45-70 rifle cartridge originated in 1873 for military use in the Springfield Model 1873 rifle. Designed for powerful, large-game hunting and lever-action rifles, it remains popular among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Its strong ballistics offer effective range and stopping power in modern hunting markets.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Excellent stopping power on large game
• Wide firearm compatibility, especially lever-actions
• Proven reliability over 140 years
• Strong aftermarket support for rifles and ammo
• Versatile for hunting and target shooting

Key Variants

.45-70 Govt

The original government load designed for military Springfield rifles, ideal for collectors and traditional shooters.

.45-70 Express

A higher-pressure variant suited for modern reinforced rifles requiring enhanced ballistic performance.

.45-70 Reduced Recoil

Load designed for low-recoil shooting, perfect for beginners and sensitive shooters.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.45-70 Rifle	.44 Magnum Rifle	.450 Bushmaster
MSRP	Varies by rifle model	Varies	Varies
Capacity/Size	Single shot to 15-round tubular	5-8 rounds	5-10 rounds
Weight	2.5-8 lbs depending on rifle	3-7 lbs	6-8 lbs
Optics-Ready	Often yes (modern models)	Usually yes	Yes
Trigger Type	Lever/action or bolt	Semi-auto or lever	Semi-auto
Notable Pro	Versatile and powerful	Compact and handy	Modern ballistics
Notable Con	Heavy recoil in some loads	Less stopping power	Limited ammo availability

Best Use Cases

• Big-game hunting including bears and elk
• Self-defense in wilderness settings
• Range practice for heavy-caliber shooting
• Collection of historic rifle cartridges

FAQs

Can I use modern ammo in antique .45-70 rifles?

Most antique rifles are not rated for high-pressure modern loads; use low-pressure .45-70 ammo or consult a gunsmith.

What is the effective range of the .45-70 rifle?

Effective hunting range is approximately 100-200 yards depending on load and rifle.

How does .45-70 compare to .450 Bushmaster?

.45-70 offers heavier bullets and greater energy, ideal for large game, while .450 Bushmaster is optimized for semi-auto platforms with moderate recoil.