Quick Answer
For most elk hunting scenarios, it's recommended to zero your .45-70 rifle at 100 yards for a 200-yard effective hunting range with a 4-inch drop.
Zeroing Considerations
When zeroing your .45-70 rifle for elk, it’s essential to consider the cartridge’s ballistics. A .45-70 Government rifle typically has a muzzle velocity of around 1,400-1,500 feet per second, and a trajectory that drops about 4 inches from 100 yards to 200 yards. To maximize effective hunting range, aim to zero your rifle at 100 yards, which will put the bullet on target at 200 yards with minimal drop.
Effective Hunting Range
The effective hunting range for a .45-70 rifle can vary depending on the terrain and the hunter’s skill level. However, a 4-inch drop at 200 yards is generally considered acceptable, allowing the hunter to effectively engage elk at longer ranges. To further optimize your hunting setup, consider using a muzzle brake or a suppressor to reduce recoil and help maintain aim on target.
Calibrating Your Setup
When calibrating your .45-70 rifle for elk, it’s crucial to consider the individual characteristics of your specific rifle, including barrel length, muzzle velocity, and zeroing point. For example, a rifle with a shorter barrel may require a slightly different zeroing point to achieve the same effective hunting range. Take the time to carefully calibrate your rifle and practice at various ranges to ensure optimal performance in the field.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.