Quick Answer
The type of bullet used can significantly influence the performance of a .45-70 on bears, with some bullets expanding more than others and affecting the likelihood of a clean kill. A well-designed expanding bullet can improve chances of a quick and humane kill. This is crucial for hunting larger game like bears.
Bullet Design and Expansion
When hunting bears with a .45-70, it’s essential to choose a bullet that expands reliably and quickly. A good example is the Hornady 325 grain FTX expanding bullet. This bullet features a Flex Tip that helps it expand consistently upon impact, even in denser bear hide. In tests, the FTX has expanded to around 0.85 inches in diameter, which is more than sufficient to quickly incapacitate a bear.
Bullet Weight and Velocity
The weight and velocity of the bullet also play a significant role in its performance on bears. A heavier bullet typically has more kinetic energy, which helps it penetrate deeper and expand more consistently. A good rule of thumb is to use a bullet that weighs at least 300 grains and is propelled at a minimum of 1,600 feet per second (fps). The Remington 300 grain Core-Lokt bullet is a good example, which has a muzzle velocity of around 1,700 fps.
Real-World Performance
In real-world hunting scenarios, the .45-70 has proven itself capable of delivering a quick and humane kill on bears. For example, in a study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a .45-70 with a 300 grain expanding bullet was used to harvest a grizzly bear at a range of 30 yards. The bear was shot in the chest and dropped instantly, demonstrating the effectiveness of the .45-70 and proper bullet selection.
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