Quick Answer
A .45-70 Government rifle can be used for competitive shooting, particularly in disciplines that emphasize long-range accuracy and heavy recoil management.
Competitive Potential
The .45-70 Government rifle has been used in various competitive shooting disciplines, including long-range and precision rifle shooting. While it may not be a popular choice for highly competitive events like 3-gun or IPSC, it can excel in long-range competitions where accuracy and bullet drop are critical. In fact, the .45-70 Government rifle has been used by some competitive shooters to great success in F-Class and PRS (Precision Rifle Series) competitions.
Ballistics and Accuracy
One of the key advantages of the .45-70 Government rifle is its ability to deliver heavy, long-range bullets with significant kinetic energy. With the right load and barrel, a .45-70 Government rifle can deliver sub-1 MOA accuracy at 600 yards or more. To achieve this level of accuracy, it’s essential to use a high-quality rifle, optic, and load. A good starting point is to start with a high-quality 28-inch barrel, a muzzle brake or compensator, and a load that produces a 405-grain bullet at 1,900-2,000 fps.
Recoil Management
Recoil management is critical when shooting a .45-70 Government rifle, particularly in competitive shooting disciplines. To manage recoil, shooters can use a combination of techniques, including the use of a muzzle brake or compensator, a high-mass rifle stock, and a shooting technique that emphasizes a smooth, consistent trigger pull. For example, a shooter may use a 4-ounce trigger pull weight, a 30-minute power scope, and a shooting technique that involves a smooth, controlled breath.
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