The .45-70 Government cartridge has a long and storied history, known for its potent power. But its use in lever-action rifles presented challenges until Hornady's Leverevolution ammunition arrived. This review delves deep into the Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325-grain load, examining its performance, applications, and overall value. We'll explore its unique design, ballistics, accuracy, and suitability for various hunting scenarios. The Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain is a standout in the world of .45-70 ammunition, and we'll uncover why.
Understanding the Leverevolution Design
The key to the Leverevolution's success lies in its innovative bullet design. Unlike traditional .45-70 rounds, the Leverevolution utilizes a pointed, polymer-tipped projectile. This design significantly reduces the overall length of the cartridge, allowing for reliable feeding in lever-action rifles, which often struggle with the longer, heavier rounds common in .45-70.
The pointed tip also contributes to improved ballistic performance. The streamlined design reduces drag, resulting in a flatter trajectory and greater downrange energy compared to traditional flat-nosed bullets. This improved aerodynamics translates to increased accuracy and effectiveness at longer ranges, significantly extending the effective hunting range of a lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70.
Bullet Construction Details
- 325-grain FlexTip bullet: This bullet features a polymer tip for improved ballistic coefficient and accuracy. The FlexTip also enhances expansion upon impact, vital for effective hunting performance.
- Hornady's renowned bullet construction: Hornady is known for its high-quality manufacturing processes. This ensures consistent bullet performance and accuracy, a critical factor for any hunting round.
- Optimized for lever-action rifles: The reduced overall cartridge length is specifically designed for reliable functioning in lever-action rifles, a considerable advantage for hunters who prefer these classic firearms.
Ballistic Performance and Accuracy
The Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain offers impressive ballistics for its class. While precise figures vary slightly depending on the specific rifle used, generally, you can expect muzzle velocities around 2,100 fps and substantial energy retention out to considerable distances.
This higher velocity, combined with the improved aerodynamics of the pointed bullet, makes it a superior choice for longer shots than traditional .45-70 ammunition. Field tests consistently demonstrate excellent accuracy at ranges beyond 200 yards with proper sighting and shooting techniques.
Ballistic Data Comparison (Approximate)
| Cartridge Type | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain | ~2100 | ~2,800 |
| Traditional .45-70 (300gr round nose) | ~1800 | ~2000 |
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on rifle, barrel length, and environmental conditions.)
Practical Applications: Hunting and Target Shooting
The Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain shines in various hunting scenarios. It's exceptionally well-suited for larger game such as deer, elk, and bear, delivering the stopping power necessary for ethical and effective hunting.
The flatter trajectory, increased range, and excellent accuracy are considerable advantages for hunters needing a precise shot at longer distances. Furthermore, the reduced recoil compared to some heavier .45-70 loads makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Beyond hunting, this ammunition also performs well in target shooting. Its accuracy and consistent ballistics make it an enjoyable and dependable option for practice or competition at various distances.
Case Study: A Successful Elk Hunt
A hunter using a Marlin 1895 Guide Gun chambered in .45-70, loaded with Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 grain ammunition, successfully harvested a large bull elk at 250 yards. The bullet exhibited excellent penetration and expansion, resulting in a clean, humane kill. The hunter commented on the rifle's manageable recoil and the ammunition's remarkable accuracy at this extended range.
Conclusion: Is the Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain Worth It?
The Hornady 45-70 Leverevolution 325 Grain cartridge provides a significant upgrade to the traditional .45-70 round, particularly for lever-action rifles. Its innovative design, improved ballistics, and enhanced accuracy make it a top choice for hunters seeking a potent and reliable load. While the price per round may be slightly higher than traditional .45-70 ammunition, the increased performance and reliability justify the cost, especially for hunters who prioritize ethical and efficient hunting practices. For those seeking a high-performing .45-70 load for their lever-action, the Hornady Leverevolution 325 grain is a strong contender. Its combination of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil makes it a versatile and effective choice for a wide range of applications.