Quick Answer
A well-designed bullet for .45-70 bear hunting delivers consistent expansion, deep penetration, and reliable stopping power, making it crucial for effective and humane hunting.
Bullet Expansion and Penetration
In .45-70 bear hunting, a bullet that expands at least 0.5 inches and penetrates at least 18 inches is essential for delivering a clean kill. The Barnes VOR-TX, for example, expands 0.75 inches and penetrates 24 inches, making it an excellent choice for this caliber. Look for bullets with a high ballistic coefficient, such as the Hornady 325 grain GMX, which maintains its velocity and delivers consistent expansion.
Caliber and Bullet Weight
The .45-70 is a versatile caliber that can handle a range of bullet weights. For bear hunting, a 300-350 grain bullet is ideal, as it provides the necessary mass for deep penetration. The Remington 300 grain Core-Lokt, for instance, delivers consistent expansion and penetration, making it a reliable choice for hunting large game.
Barrel Twist and Rifling
A 1:18 to 1:20 twist rate is recommended for the .45-70 to stabilize bullets weighing 300-350 grains. This twist rate ensures that the bullet remains stable in flight, allowing it to maintain its velocity and deliver consistent expansion. Look for barrels with a 5-6 groove rifling pattern, as it helps to reduce barrel fouling and improve accuracy.
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