Choosing the right cartridge for hunting or shooting can be a daunting task, especially when comparing powerful rounds like the .450 Bushmaster and the .45-70 Government. Both boast substantial stopping power, but their strengths and weaknesses differ significantly. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Caliber, Case, and Ballistics: Understanding the Differences
While both cartridges share a similar caliber (.45), their case design and resulting ballistics are vastly different, leading to unique performance characteristics.
.450 Bushmaster: The Modern Contender
The .450 Bushmaster is a relatively modern cartridge, designed specifically for use in AR-15 platform rifles. Its shorter, bottlenecked case allows for higher velocities in semi-automatic rifles compared to the .45-70. This translates to flatter trajectories and increased range. However, this velocity comes at the cost of some recoil energy.
.45-70 Government: A Legacy of Power
The .45-70 Government, on the other hand, is a classic cartridge with a long and storied history. Its straight-walled, larger case holds a substantial powder charge, generating immense energy. This makes it exceptionally powerful at close to medium ranges but results in more felt recoil and a steeper trajectory compared to the .450 Bushmaster. Traditionally fired from lever-action rifles or single-shot firearms, it's now also available in bolt-action rifles.
Ballistic Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The table below presents a simplified comparison of typical factory loads. Remember that actual performance can vary based on ammunition manufacturer, barrel length, and environmental conditions.
| Feature | .450 Bushmaster | .45-70 Government |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Velocity (fps) | 2300-2400 | 1800-2200 |
| Typical Energy (ft-lbs) | 2500-3000 | 2000-3500 |
| Recoil | Moderate to High | High |
| Trajectory | Relatively Flat | Steeper |
| Effective Range | 200-300 yards (hunting) | 150-250 yards (hunting) |
Applications: Where Each Cartridge Excels
The best cartridge for you depends heavily on your intended application.
.450 Bushmaster: Ideal for
- Short to medium-range hunting: Its flatter trajectory and higher velocity make it suitable for hunting medium-sized game within its effective range.
- Self-defense (in appropriate states): Its stopping power and semi-automatic functionality make it a potent defensive round.
- AR-15 platform enthusiasts: This cartridge allows users to leverage their existing AR-15 rifles for larger game hunting.
.45-70 Government: Ideal for
- Close to medium-range hunting of larger game: Its massive stopping power makes it effective on larger animals at closer ranges. Think elk, bear, and boar.
- Traditional hunting applications: The .45-70 is a historical favorite, fitting well with lever-action rifles and offering a traditional hunting experience.
- Long-range shooting (with appropriate loads): While traditionally not known for its range, advancements in bullet technology are expanding its capabilities.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the choice between the .450 Bushmaster and the .45-70 Government comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The .450 Bushmaster offers higher velocity and flatter trajectory in a more modern platform, while the .45-70 Government delivers immense stopping power from a cartridge with a rich history. Carefully consider your hunting style, the game you intend to hunt, and your preferred firearm platform before making a decision. Both are powerful cartridges capable of taking down large game, but their strengths lie in different applications. Consult with experienced hunters and shooters to help make the best choice for you.
