The .45-70 Government and the .500 S&W Magnum are both powerful handgun cartridges, but they occupy different niches and have distinct ballistic characteristics. This in-depth comparison will explore their performance differences, helping you understand which cartridge might be best suited for your needs. We'll delve into velocity, energy, accuracy, recoil, and applications, providing a comprehensive look at the .45-70 vs .500 S&W ballistics.
Understanding the Contenders: .45-70 Government and .500 S&W Magnum
Both cartridges are known for their substantial stopping power, but their design and intended uses differ significantly.
The .45-70 Government: A Legacy of Power
The .45-70 Government, originally designed in 1873, is a classic rifle cartridge with a long and storied history. While it’s now chambered in some handguns (primarily lever-action rifles and single-shot pistols), its origins are firmly rooted in long-range rifle accuracy and stopping power. Its larger bullet diameter and heavier bullet weights are a testament to that history. It boasts a substantial amount of energy, making it exceptionally effective for hunting large game at moderate to closer ranges.
The .500 S&W Magnum: Modern Handgun Powerhouse
The .500 S&W Magnum, introduced much later in 2003, was designed specifically for handguns and is known for its extreme power and heavy recoil. Its significantly larger bore diameter delivers impressive stopping power at shorter ranges, making it a favorite among hunters pursuing dangerous game and those wanting maximum stopping power in self-defense scenarios (though its recoil makes it less suitable for many self-defense situations).
Ballistic Comparison: .45-70 vs .500 S&W
The following table provides a direct comparison of typical ballistic performance data for both cartridges. Remember that these are averages, and actual performance can vary depending on several factors including bullet weight, powder charge, barrel length, and ammunition manufacturer.
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) | Recoil (estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .45-70 Govt. (rifle) | 300 | 2000-2200 | 2500-3000 | High |
| .45-70 Govt. (handgun) | 300 | 1500-1800 | 1800-2300 | Very High |
| .500 S&W Magnum | 350 | 1700-1900 | 2500-3000 | Extremely High |
Note: Recoil is subjective and depends on the firearm and the shooter.
Velocity and Energy:
As the table demonstrates, while the muzzle energy is comparable in some loadings, the .500 S&W generally delivers slightly higher energy from lighter bullets due to significantly higher velocities. The .45-70, especially in handgun configurations, exhibits lower velocity but can compensate with heavier bullets to achieve comparable or even higher energy at closer ranges.
Accuracy:
Accuracy is largely dependent on the firearm and the shooter. Generally, both cartridges are capable of good accuracy at their effective ranges. However, the heavier recoil of the .500 S&W can make sustained accurate shooting more challenging for some individuals. The longer barrel of a rifle significantly improves accuracy over shorter handgun barrels in the .45-70 case.
Recoil:
The recoil difference is significant. The .500 S&W Magnum is infamous for its substantial recoil, which can be uncomfortable and even painful for many shooters. The .45-70, especially in handgun form, also packs a considerable punch, but it’s generally considered less extreme than the .500 S&W.
Applications: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the .45-70 and the .500 S&W depends largely on your intended use:
- .45-70 Government: Ideal for hunting large game animals at closer to moderate ranges, especially in areas where heavier projectiles are beneficial for penetration. Also suitable for target shooting. Its historical significance makes it a popular cartridge among collectors.
- .500 S&W Magnum: Best suited for hunting extremely dangerous game at close ranges. Its sheer stopping power is unmatched in a handgun cartridge, making it a popular choice for professional hunters and those seeking maximum stopping power in extreme self-defense situations.
Conclusion: A Matter of Need and Experience
Both the .45-70 Government and the .500 S&W Magnum are potent cartridges, but with distinctly different characteristics. The .45-70 offers a balance of power and manageable recoil (relative to the .500 S&W) in rifle configurations, while the .500 S&W delivers unmatched stopping power at close range, albeit with extreme recoil. The best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs, shooting experience, and the intended application. Always prioritize safety and practice responsibly with any high-powered firearm.