Should you sight in differently for 405gr loads versus lighter loads?

Ballistic Differences

When hunting with a 45-70 Government, it’s essential to understand the ballistic differences between 405gr and lighter loads. The 405gr bullet, with its larger mass and heavier weight, will generally have a slower velocity and a flatter trajectory than lighter loads. This can result in a slightly longer effective range and increased accuracy at longer distances. However, the slower velocity also means that the bullet will drop more in relation to its velocity, especially when fired at longer ranges.

Sight-In Procedures

To take advantage of the 405gr bullet’s characteristics, you should sight in your rifle at a slightly longer range than with lighter loads. For elk hunting, a good starting point is to sight in at 200-250 yards with the 405gr bullet. This will give you a point of aim that is high enough to compensate for the bullet’s drop and ensure accurate shots at longer ranges. Keep in mind that the exact sight-in range will depend on your specific rifle, scope, and ammunition, so it’s essential to consult your ballistics charts and test fire your rifle before the hunt.

Practical Considerations

In practice, the differences between 405gr and lighter loads can be subtle, and the choice between the two will ultimately depend on your personal preference and the specific hunting conditions. If you’re hunting in tight spaces or at close ranges, lighter loads may be a better choice due to their faster velocity and shorter effective range. However, for hunting at longer ranges or in open country, the 405gr bullet’s flat trajectory and increased accuracy make it an excellent choice.