Introducing the Powerhouses
The world of big-bore cartridges is a realm of raw power and impressive ballistics. Two titans that often dominate conversations among hunters and firearm enthusiasts are the formidable 500 Smith & Wesson Magnum (500 S&W) and the venerable 45-70 Government. This article will delve deep into a comprehensive comparison of these two cartridges, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications, helping you decide which one might be the best fit for your shooting needs. We will meticulously examine their historical significance, specifications, ballistic performance, recoil, intended use, and the types of firearms that chamber them. Ultimately, this will provide you with a detailed understanding of how these two cartridges stand up against each other. Both the 500 S&W and the 45-70 represent distinct eras in firearms history. They both are renowned for delivering significant power and the ability to take down large game. However, their origins and designs reflect different approaches to achieving similar goals. Choosing between the two comes down to understanding their unique characteristics. The 500 S&W represents a modern approach to brute force, while the 45-70 offers a classic combination of power and practicality, with a rich historical background. Both of them are popular among gun owners worldwide.
Unveiling the 500 Smith & Wesson Magnum
The 500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, often simply referred to as the 500 S&W, burst onto the scene in the early 2000s. It was a collaborative effort between Smith & Wesson and Cor-Bon Ammunition. The goal was simple: to create the most powerful production revolver cartridge available. The design was built from the ground up with this goal in mind. The 500 S&W quickly gained attention for its immense power. Delving into the intricacies of the 500 S&W reveals a robust cartridge designed to deliver unparalleled energy. It uses a .500-inch diameter bullet. Common bullet weights range from approximately 275 grains to over 700 grains. This wide range of options allows shooters to tailor the cartridge to different applications, from lighter bullets for increased velocity to heavier ones for maximum penetration. The case itself is sizable, contributing to the cartridge’s overall impressive capacity for propellant. Muzzle velocities typically range from around 1,400 feet per second (fps) to over 2,000 fps, depending on the bullet weight and load. This results in muzzle energies that often exceed 2,000 foot-pounds. The 500 S&W is primarily found in revolvers, the most common being those manufactured by Smith & Wesson themselves. Other manufacturers have also released revolvers chambered for this cartridge. Single-shot rifles are also available for the 500 S&W, often tailored for hunters who require the long-range accuracy that rifle platforms provide. The advantages of the 500 S&W are clear: unmatched power in a handgun. It’s an exceptionally capable cartridge for taking down large and dangerous game, including bear and other tough, thick-skinned animals. The availability of a wide range of bullet weights adds to its versatility, and the impressive energy delivery means it can deliver a significant amount of damage on impact. It can be loaded with great velocity. However, the 500 S&W is not without its drawbacks. The recoil is substantial, even in a heavy revolver, making it challenging for some shooters to control and maintain accuracy. Ammunition can also be expensive and the options available at local stores are sometimes limited. The large size of the cartridge also means that the firearms that chamber it are typically large and heavy.
Exploring the 45-70 Government
The 45-70 Government, formally known as the 45-70-405, traces its origins back to the late 1800s and was adopted by the United States Army in 1873. Designed to be the standard military cartridge, it quickly gained a reputation for its stopping power and effectiveness on the battlefield. It was designed with both the Springfield Model 1873 single-shot rifle and the repeating trapdoor rifle in mind. The “45” refers to the bullet diameter, the “70” represents the original 70 grains of black powder used, and “405” refers to the original bullet weight in grains. The 45-70’s case dimensions are relatively large, accommodating a wide range of bullet weights and powder charges. Bullet diameter measures .458 inches. Bullet weights typically vary from around 300 grains to over 500 grains. Muzzle velocities can range widely depending on the load, from subsonic loads using black powder to modern, higher-pressure loads. The classic black powder loads provide moderate velocity and energy, while more modern loads using smokeless powders offer significantly higher performance. The 45-70 Government has been chambered in numerous firearms over the years. Iconic lever-action rifles, such as those manufactured by Marlin and Henry, are the most commonly associated with the cartridge. Single-shot rifles, like the Ruger No. 1, also provide a platform for this cartridge, with accuracy benefits stemming from the action design. Trapdoor Springfield rifles, though not commonly used today, represent the original platform for the 45-70. The 45-70’s advantages are rooted in its historical significance, combined with its continuing practicality. The ammunition is often more readily available and can be found in various stores. The cartridge is effective at a reasonable range, and lever-action rifles are known for their reliability. Many people also enjoy the historic appeal of the 45-70. Recoil, while significant, is often manageable, and the cartridge has proven capable of taking down large game. However, the 45-70 is not without its limitations. The trajectory, compared to more modern cartridges, tends to be more curved. Ammunition performance will vary widely based on the load and type of powder used. It is essential to carefully consider the safe pressure levels for the particular firearm when selecting loads. Some modern loads have high pressure, while others are designed for historical weapons.
A Direct Comparison
In a direct comparison of the ballistics, the 500 S&W typically delivers significantly higher muzzle energy than standard 45-70 loads. The 500 S&W typically provides a flatter trajectory for a longer range, while the 45-70 has a more arched trajectory, especially with the black powder loads. The 500 S&W’s heavier bullets can offer superior sectional density, contributing to deeper penetration. When considering range and accuracy, the 500 S&W, in the right platform, may offer better long-range capabilities due to its flatter trajectory and higher velocity. The 45-70 is often accurate to 200 yards, but the drop is more significant at greater distances. The 500 S&W has a range that will vary depending on the load used. The recoil generated by both cartridges is substantial. The 500 S&W, known for its extreme power, generally produces more felt recoil than the 45-70, which can be influenced by the design of the firearm. Both cartridges are potent, but the 500 S&W’s recoil will be more pronounced. In the realm of applications, both cartridges are primarily used for hunting, with large game as their primary target. The 500 S&W, with its immense power, is often chosen for hunting bear and other dangerous game. The 45-70 is well-suited for taking down elk, deer, and bear at reasonable ranges, and has a rich history in this regard. Both cartridges can also be used for self-defense. The choice may come down to the hunter’s preference and the local game. Considering the costs involved, ammunition for the 500 S&W is generally more expensive than ammunition for the 45-70, which is available more widely and more affordably. Both firearms can be expensive depending on the manufacturer.
A Summary of Positives and Negatives
To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the key pros and cons:
500 S&W:
Pros: Unmatched power, high energy, flat trajectory at closer ranges, wide variety of bullet weights. Cons: High recoil, expensive ammunition, the guns can be heavy, some stores will not carry the ammo.
45-70:
Pros: Ammunition available and generally more affordable, good stopping power, excellent for a historic firearm, manageable recoil. Cons: Trajectory with black powder loads is curved, potential for pressure variations, depending on the loads selected.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the “better” cartridge depends entirely on the individual’s needs and preferences. The 500 S&W offers unmatched power and impressive energy delivery, ideal for specialized hunting scenarios where extreme power is necessary. The 45-70 provides an excellent combination of power, historical significance, and practicality, making it a versatile choice for a variety of hunting applications, especially when used in a lever-action rifle. If you are seeking a powerful handgun with a modern design, or intend to hunt the largest and most dangerous game in North America, the 500 S&W is a natural choice. If you appreciate historical firearms, the practicality of lever-action rifles, and a cartridge that has proven itself for over a century, the 45-70 could be a better fit. Either way, both cartridges represent the pinnacle of big-bore power.
Further Thoughts
Always prioritize safety when handling any firearm. Ensure you follow all safety regulations and practice safe gun handling techniques. Select bullet weights appropriate for your hunting needs, and consider the impact of bullet design on performance. Handloading opens up new opportunities to customize your cartridges and experiment with different loads.
Final Resources
For further research and additional information, consult ammunition manufacturers’ websites for specific load data. Check with firearm manufacturers for details on chambering options and firearm-specific characteristics. Also consider consulting hunting forums and gun clubs for specific opinions, feedback, and shared experiences.
