12 Gauge Slug vs. 45-70: A Ballistic Showdown
The age-old debate of 12 gauge slug vs 45-70 continues to rage among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Both are formidable cartridges, each boasting a rich history and a dedicated following. Deciding which is superior depends heavily on the intended application, personal preferences, and a thorough understanding of their respective strengths and weaknesses. This article will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the 12 gauge slug and the 45-70 cartridge, examining their ballistic performance, effective range, recoil, and suitability for various hunting scenarios.
A Brief History
Understanding the historical context of each cartridge provides valuable insight into their design and intended purpose.
The 12 Gauge Slug
The 12 gauge slug emerged as a practical solution for hunters seeking a large-bore option in areas where rifles were restricted. Shotguns, being more versatile and widely available, could be adapted for deer hunting by using slugs instead of shot. This adaptability made the 12 gauge slug a popular choice, particularly in the eastern United States.
The .45-70 Government
The 45-70 cartridge, officially known as the .45-70 Government, was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873. It was initially designed for use in single-shot rifles and carbines, serving as a powerful and reliable cartridge for military applications. Its effectiveness in taking down large game quickly led to its adoption by civilian hunters, who appreciated its stopping power and ability to penetrate thick cover.
Ballistic Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
When comparing 12 gauge slug vs 45-70, ballistic performance is a critical factor. This includes velocity, energy, trajectory, and penetration capabilities.
Velocity and Energy
Generally, the 45-70 boasts a higher velocity than the 12 gauge slug, especially at longer ranges. This translates to a flatter trajectory and greater retained energy downrange. A typical 45-70 load can achieve velocities of 1800-2000 fps, while a 12 gauge slug usually falls in the 1500-1700 fps range. The higher velocity of the 45-70 contributes to its superior energy transfer, making it effective at greater distances.
Trajectory
The flatter trajectory of the 45-70 offers a significant advantage for longer shots. Less bullet drop means less need for holdover adjustments, increasing accuracy. The 12 gauge slug, with its lower velocity, experiences a more pronounced bullet drop, limiting its effective range and requiring more precise range estimation.
Penetration
Both the 12 gauge slug and the 45-70 offer excellent penetration, but the 45-70 generally excels in this area. Its heavier bullet and higher velocity allow it to penetrate thick hides and bone with greater ease. This makes the 45-70 a preferred choice for hunting larger, tougher game such as elk and bear. The 12 gauge slug, while still capable of delivering significant penetration, may be more susceptible to deflection by brush and other obstacles.
Effective Range
The effective range of both cartridges is largely dependent on the shooter’s skill and the specific load used. However, the inherent ballistic characteristics of each cartridge dictate their practical limitations.
12 Gauge Slug
The effective range of a 12 gauge slug is generally considered to be within 100-150 yards. Beyond this distance, the significant bullet drop and decreased energy make accurate shot placement challenging. Sabot slugs, which are designed for rifled shotgun barrels, can extend this range somewhat, but the 12 gauge slug is primarily a short- to medium-range option.
.45-70 Government
The 45-70, with its flatter trajectory and higher retained energy, can be effectively used at ranges up to 200-300 yards, and even further with specialized loads and skilled marksmanship. Its superior long-range performance makes it a versatile choice for a wider range of hunting scenarios.
Recoil: A Matter of Perspective
Recoil is a significant consideration for many shooters, and both the 12 gauge slug and the 45-70 are known for producing substantial recoil. However, the perceived recoil can vary depending on the firearm’s weight, stock design, and the specific load used.
12 Gauge Slug
The recoil of a 12 gauge slug is often described as sharp and abrupt. This is due to the relatively light weight of many shotguns and the large mass of the slug being propelled forward. Recoil can be mitigated to some extent by using heavier shotguns and recoil-reducing devices, but it remains a significant factor to consider.
.45-70 Government
The recoil of the 45-70 is often described as more of a push than a sharp jolt. This is due to the heavier weight of many 45-70 rifles and the slower burning rate of the powder. While the overall recoil energy may be similar to that of a 12 gauge slug, the perceived recoil may be more manageable for some shooters.
Hunting Applications
The suitability of the 12 gauge slug vs 45-70 for hunting depends on the type of game being pursued and the hunting environment.
12 Gauge Slug
The 12 gauge slug is well-suited for hunting deer and other medium-sized game in areas with thick cover and limited ranges. Its large bullet diameter delivers significant stopping power at close range, making it effective in dense forests and brushy terrain. The versatility of shotguns also allows hunters to switch to birdshot or buckshot for other types of game.
.45-70 Government
The 45-70 is a versatile cartridge that can be used for hunting a wide range of game, from deer and hogs to elk and bear. Its superior penetration and long-range performance make it a good choice for open country and for hunting larger, tougher game. The 45-70 is also a popular choice for hunting in areas where dangerous game is present, providing a reliable source of stopping power.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
Ammunition availability and cost are practical considerations when choosing between the 12 gauge slug vs 45-70.
12 Gauge Slug
12 gauge slug ammunition is generally more readily available and less expensive than 45-70 ammunition. This is due to the widespread popularity of shotguns and the mass production of 12 gauge shells. Hunters can typically find a wide variety of 12 gauge slug loads at most sporting goods stores.
.45-70 Government
45-70 ammunition, while not as widely available as 12 gauge slug ammunition, is still readily accessible. However, it tends to be more expensive due to the specialized nature of the cartridge and the smaller production volumes. Hunters may need to order 45-70 ammunition online or from specialty retailers.
Firearm Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of firearms chambered in each cartridge are also important factors to consider.
12 Gauge Slug
Shotguns chambered in 12 gauge are widely available and relatively inexpensive. This makes the 12 gauge slug an accessible option for hunters on a budget. Many hunters already own a 12 gauge shotgun that can be used for both bird hunting and deer hunting with the appropriate ammunition.
.45-70 Government
Rifles chambered in 45-70 are typically more expensive than 12 gauge shotguns. This is due to the more complex manufacturing process and the specialized nature of the rifles. However, there are a variety of 45-70 rifles available, ranging from traditional lever-action models to modern single-shot and bolt-action designs. [See also: Best Lever Action Rifles Under $1000]
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the 12 gauge slug vs 45-70 ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. The 12 gauge slug offers a cost-effective and versatile option for hunting medium-sized game at close range, particularly in areas with thick cover. The 45-70 provides superior long-range performance and penetration, making it a better choice for hunting larger, tougher game and for hunting in open country. Consider your primary hunting scenarios, budget, and tolerance for recoil when making your decision. Both the 12 gauge slug and the 45-70 are capable cartridges that have proven their worth in the field for many years. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will help you choose the right tool for the job and ensure a successful hunting experience.
