The .45-70 Government cartridge. The name itself conjures images of the Old West, buffalo hunts, and formidable stopping power. This legendary round, born from the needs of the US Army in the late 19th century, continues to captivate shooters today. While not commonly chambered in revolvers, understanding the history and nuances of the .45-70 is crucial for anyone interested in large-bore firearms. This article will explore the cartridge, discuss the challenges and possibilities of .45-70 revolvers, and delve into the specific considerations for those who choose to wield this powerful round in a revolver platform.
The .45-70 Government: A Historical Overview
Developed in 1873 for the Springfield Trapdoor rifle, the .45-70 quickly established itself as a potent round. Its substantial bullet weight and impressive velocity made it effective against both man and beast, solidifying its role in the taming of the American West. The cartridge's versatility – suitable for both hunting large game and military applications – contributed to its enduring legacy. Its widespread use in the late 19th and early 20th centuries also led to a considerable amount of readily available ammunition, even to this day.
The Challenges of a .45-70 Revolver
While the .45-70 Government is primarily associated with rifles and lever-action firearms, the cartridge’s power presents significant challenges for revolver design and operation. The sheer force of the round requires robust construction to prevent frame failure. This necessitates heavier, more substantial revolvers, impacting both weight and overall handling.
The recoil is another significant factor. Firing a .45-70 round from a revolver is a substantially different experience compared to firing it from a rifle due to the shorter barrel length and the concentrated recoil on the shooter's hand. The recoil impulse is significant and can make sustained shooting challenging for even experienced shooters. Additionally, the substantial cylinder needed to house such a powerful cartridge further adds to the overall weight and size of the firearm.
The Rarity and Specifics of .45-70 Revolvers
Due to the engineering challenges, commercially produced .45-70 revolvers are exceedingly rare. Most examples found are custom-built or represent one-off creations from gunsmiths specializing in large-bore firearms. These often involve significant modifications to existing revolver frames or the creation of entirely new designs capable of withstanding the immense pressures generated by this cartridge. This, in turn, often translates to a higher price point, significantly exceeding the cost of most other revolver types.
If you encounter a revolver claiming to chamber .45-70, it's crucial to verify its authenticity and the safety of its construction with a qualified gunsmith. Never attempt to fire a .45-70 cartridge in a revolver not explicitly designed and proven safe for this purpose.
Conclusion: Power Meets Practicality (or Lack Thereof)
The .45-70 Government revolver remains a niche and challenging proposition for most shooters. While the idea of wielding this historical round in a revolver format is undeniably appealing, the significant drawbacks related to recoil, weight, and the rarity of safe and reliable examples should be carefully considered. The power of the .45-70 is undeniable, but its successful integration into a revolver platform presents considerable engineering and operational challenges. For most applications, rifles and lever-action firearms represent a more practical and safer choice for this powerful cartridge.
