Understanding the Two Contenders
The Grand Old Lady: 45-70 Government
The 45-70 Government, often referred to as simply 45-70 or .45-70, is a cartridge steeped in history. Born in the late 19th century, it was the chosen round for the U.S. military’s Springfield Model 1873, the legendary “Trapdoor Springfield.” It played a significant role in the American West and the development of early firearms technology.
This venerable cartridge is a relatively large caliber, meaning it fires a bullet with a substantial diameter. The bullet itself measures approximately 0.45 inches in diameter. Its overall size contributes to the cartridge’s ability to deliver significant energy on target. The cartridges are quite long, a characteristic that is important in terms of how it impacts the overall design of the rifle.
Typical bullet weights used with the 45-70 range from around three hundred to over five hundred grains. This range of weights allows for some variation in bullet construction and the intended purpose of the ammunition. The heavier bullets tend to generate more energy at the muzzle, while lighter bullets might offer flatter trajectories.
The muzzle velocity of a 45-70 round is generally moderate. The speeds are considerably slower than those typical of the smaller, high-velocity cartridges. However, it is this slower velocity and bullet weight combination that delivers the substantial energy upon impact.
A variety of rifles are chambered for the 45-70. Lever-action rifles are particularly popular, offering quick follow-up shots and a classic feel. Single-shot rifles, harking back to the cartridge’s origins, remain a favorite choice for their ruggedness and precision.
The Modern Workhorse: 556
The 556, or 5.56x45mm NATO, represents a much more modern evolution. Developed in the mid-20th century, it was adopted by NATO as a standard military cartridge. The 5.56mm traces its lineage back to the .223 Remington, a popular commercial cartridge.
The 556 cartridge utilizes a bullet with a much smaller diameter – approximately 0.223 inches. This narrower profile contributes to a high level of accuracy. The cartridge is smaller overall, both in terms of length and diameter, compared to the 45-70. This size difference allows rifles to be more compact and hold more rounds in a magazine.
Typical bullet weights are lighter than those used in the 45-70. They generally range from around fifty-five to seventy-seven grains, though other specialty bullet weights are available. The lighter bullets contribute to the high velocities that are the hallmark of the 556.
The 556 is known for its high muzzle velocity. This high velocity is one of its primary advantages, providing a flatter trajectory over longer distances.
A multitude of rifle platforms are chambered for 556. The AR-15 and its many variations are the most common examples, along with the military’s M16 and M4. Bolt-action rifles offer excellent accuracy and are popular for hunting.
Delving into the Ballistics
Trajectory: A Tale of Two Arcs
Trajectory refers to the path the bullet follows from the muzzle of the rifle to the target. The 45-70, with its heavier, slower-moving bullets, exhibits a more pronounced arc. The bullet drops noticeably over distance. At one hundred yards, the drop is relatively small. However, at ranges of three hundred yards and beyond, the drop becomes considerable, requiring precise holdover adjustments.
The 556, benefiting from higher velocities, exhibits a flatter trajectory. The bullet experiences less drop over distance, making it easier to hit targets at varying ranges without needing to adjust the point of aim. This trait contributes to the 556’s effectiveness at longer distances.
Kinetic Energy: The Power of Impact
Kinetic energy is the measure of a moving object’s energy. When it comes to firearms, it is a critical factor in determining the effectiveness of a round upon impact. The 45-70, with its heavy bullets and substantial weight, possesses high kinetic energy at the muzzle. While its energy decreases over distance, it remains a formidable force, capable of delivering significant impact.
The 556, despite its higher velocity, generally carries less kinetic energy at the muzzle than the 45-70, due to its lighter bullets. However, its faster speed can result in more efficient energy transfer upon impact.
Penetration: Through Barriers
Penetration refers to a bullet’s ability to pass through various materials. The 45-70, with its large diameter and heavy bullets, can offer excellent penetration in some situations. It excels at punching through thick brush and, in some cases, can penetrate heavy barriers.
The 556, while it may not penetrate as deeply as the 45-70 in some materials, benefits from the tumbling effect of a modern rifle, designed to give it a higher chance of passing through multiple layers of a target before stopping.
The Wind’s Influence
Wind drift is a phenomenon where the wind deflects a bullet from its intended path. The 45-70’s slower speed and heavier bullets make it more susceptible to wind drift. Shooters must account for wind conditions when aiming, particularly at longer ranges.
The 556, though also affected by wind, is less susceptible to drift due to its higher velocity and generally more streamlined bullets. This makes it slightly less demanding to shoot in windy conditions, particularly at longer ranges.
Putting Them to Use: Applications
The 45-70: A Hunting Icon
The 45-70 is a popular choice for hunting large game animals, such as deer, elk, and even bear. Its stopping power and ability to deliver significant energy make it effective at close-to-medium ranges. It also boasts a reputation for being highly effective in dense brush.
The 556: Versatile Applications
The 556 is the backbone of many military forces and law enforcement agencies, used for tactical applications and engagements. Its lightweight design, high capacity magazines, and manageable recoil make it an excellent choice for rapid and accurate fire. Additionally, it’s well-suited for hunting varmints, predators, and smaller game animals.
Evaluating the Advantages and Disadvantages
45-70 Advantages
The 45-70 delivers significant stopping power, is effective at moderate ranges, and may be a good choice if you prefer close quarters hunting situations. It provides a classic feel and experience, and has a long and storied history.
45-70 Disadvantages
It produces heavy recoil, which can make it challenging to shoot for some individuals. Its effective range is limited compared to high-velocity cartridges, and ammunition costs can be relatively high. The rifles are often larger and heavier.
556 Advantages
The 556 offers a flatter trajectory, which is advantageous at longer ranges. The recoil is light, making it easy to shoot rapidly and accurately. Ammunition costs are typically lower, and rifles tend to be lighter and more maneuverable.
556 Disadvantages
It can be less effective in stopping larger animals at close range. Some may find the potential for over-penetration undesirable in self-defense situations.
Cost and Availability
Ammunition Costs
The 45-70 ammunition generally costs more per round than 556. This factor can influence how frequently a shooter can practice and train. The 556, being more common, benefits from economies of scale, resulting in lower prices.
Ammunition Availability
556 ammunition is widely available in most areas, making it easy to find. The 45-70 is also generally available, though may be less ubiquitous in certain areas.
Gearing Up: Firearms and Accessories
Rifle Platforms
A variety of rifles are chambered in both calibers, from lever-action and single-shot rifles for the 45-70 to AR-15s and bolt-actions for the 556. The choice of platform depends on the intended use and personal preference.
Accessories
A wide array of accessories are available for both, including scopes, red dot sights, and slings.
Important Safety Matters
Safe Handling and Storage
Always keep firearms unloaded and pointed in a safe direction. Store them securely, away from children and unauthorized individuals.
Recoil Management
If you choose the 45-70, practice proper stance and grip to manage recoil. Consider using a recoil pad.
Understanding Ballistic Performance
Always be aware of the range of your firearm and the trajectory of the bullet. Ensure a safe backstop when shooting.
Concluding Thoughts
Choosing between the 45-70 Govt and the 556 is a decision that hinges on the intended use of the firearm. The 45-70 excels at delivering power for close-to-medium range hunting. It’s a good choice if you seek a classic experience. The 556, on the other hand, offers versatility for military and law enforcement applications, target shooting, and hunting smaller game.
The best choice will come down to your unique needs and preferences. Regardless of which cartridge you choose, always prioritize safe gun handling and responsible ownership.
