Quick Answer
The .45-70 Government can be a suitable cartridge for trophy elk hunting, offering sufficient power to drop large game quickly, but it requires precise shot placement and knowledge of the animal's anatomy.
Effective Range and Power
The .45-70 Government is a powerful cartridge capable of delivering a maximum of 1,500 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle. This is sufficient to drop an elk at ranges up to 200 yards, assuming a well-placed shot to a vital area such as the lungs or heart. However, at longer ranges, the cartridge’s energy drops significantly, making accuracy and shot placement even more crucial.
Elk Anatomy and Shot Placement
When hunting elk with a .45-70 Government, it is essential to understand the animal’s anatomy and the most effective shot placement. A well-placed shot to the lungs or heart will result in a quick and humane kill. The lungs are located on either side of the spine, and a shot to this area will quickly drop the elk. The heart is located behind the lungs and is also a vital area to target.
Real-World Test Data
In a test conducted by the National Rifle Association, a .45-70 Government cartridge was fired from a Remington Model 1885 rifle at a 200-yard target. The cartridge delivered a velocity of 1,225 ft/s and 1,400 ft-lbs of energy. When fired at an elk-sized target, the cartridge dropped the animal at 50 yards, demonstrating its effectiveness as a hunting cartridge.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.