Buy 45-70 Government Ammo Online

The .45-70 Government is a true American legend — a big-bore cartridge that’s
been dropping large game since 1873 and is more popular today than ever. With
its heavy .458-caliber bullets and bone-crushing close-range power, the 45-70
is the go-to for lever-action hunters, big-game guides, and anyone who wants
serious knockdown authority. From mild plinking and cowboy loads to thumping
bear-defense rounds, Trigger Ammo Store carries a deep selection of 45-70
ammunition for every rifle and every purpose.

What Is the 45-70 Government?

Introduced in 1873 for the U.S. Army’s Springfield “Trapdoor” rifle, the
.45-70 originally launched a 405-grain bullet over 70 grains of black powder —
hence the name. Nearly 150 years later, it’s enjoying a massive resurgence,
thanks to modern lever-action rifles, premium factory ammo, and its reputation
as a hard-hitting brush and big-game cartridge. The heavy, large-diameter
bullet delivers tremendous energy and penetration at the close-to-moderate
ranges where it’s typically used.

IMPORTANT: Match Your 45-70 Ammo to Your Rifle

This is the most important thing to know about buying 45-70 ammo. Factory
loads come in three pressure tiers, and using a load too powerful for your
firearm is dangerous:

• Trapdoor / Original loads (lowest pressure): Mild loads
  safe for original 1873 Springfield “Trapdoor” rifles and replicas. Use ONLY
  these in vintage trapdoor actions.
• Lever-Action loads (medium pressure): Standard loads
  rated for modern lever guns like the Marlin 1895 and Henry. The most common
  category and a great all-around choice.
• Ruger No. 1 / Modern Single-Shot loads (highest pressure):
  Heavy, hot-rodded loads (such as premium bear-defense ammo) intended ONLY for
  strong modern actions like the Ruger No. 1 and Siamese Mauser conversions.
  Never fire these in a trapdoor or a rifle not rated for them.

Always check your rifle’s manual and the ammo manufacturer’s rating before
buying. If you’re unsure what your rifle can safely handle, consult a qualified
gunsmith. We note the intended pressure tier on our listings wherever possible.

What Is 45-70 Good For?

• Big-game hunting: Elk, moose, bear, and big hogs — the
  45-70 delivers massive energy and deep penetration at brush-gun ranges.
• Bear defense: Heavy hard-cast loads make it a trusted
  choice for backcountry protection in bear country.
• Lever-gun & cowboy shooting: Mild loads are fun,
  low-recoil, and perfect for plinking and cowboy action events.

Types of 45-70 Ammo We Carry

• Soft Point & Flat Nose: Classic hunting loads with
  reliable expansion, safe in tubular lever magazines.
• FTX / Flex-Tip (LeveRevolution-style): Pointed-but-safe
  polymer tips for flatter trajectory in lever guns.
• Hard-Cast Lead: Deep-penetrating loads favored for
  bear defense and the largest game.
• Cowboy / Reduced Loads: Mild, low-recoil rounds for
  range fun and trapdoor-friendly shooting.

Common 45-70 Bullet Weights

The .45-70 is loaded with heavy bullets across a wide range. Lighter-for-
caliber 250–300 grain loads (often FTX-style) offer flatter
trajectories and lighter recoil. The historic 405 grain is the
classic all-around weight. Heavy 430–500 grain hard-cast
bullets deliver maximum penetration for the biggest, toughest animals and
serious bear defense.

Top 45-70 Ammo Brands

We stock 45-70 Government ammunition from the manufacturers shooters trust,
including Hornady, Federal, Winchester, Remington, Buffalo Bore, Underwood,
Barnes, and HSM. From affordable lever-action practice loads to premium
hard-cast bear medicine, you’ll find the right ammo for your rifle and your
hunt.

Bulk 45-70 Ammo & Best Prices

Big-bore ammo adds up, so buying 45-70 in bulk lowers your cost per round
for range time and practice. Browse our bulk and case listings for the best
pricing, and watch our stock alerts for popular hunting and defense loads that
sell out fast during season.

Fast, Reliable Shipping

Orders ship quickly with secure, age-verified delivery in compliance with
all applicable federal, state, and local laws. By placing an order you confirm
you are at least 18 years of age (21+ where required) and that it is legal for
you to purchase and receive rifle ammunition at your delivery address. Some
states and localities restrict ammunition shipments — please review your local
regulations before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shoot any 45-70 ammo in my Marlin 1895?

Use loads rated for modern lever-action rifles. Avoid the hottest Ruger
No. 1 / single-shot-only loads unless your specific rifle is rated for them.
Always check the manufacturer’s pressure rating and your rifle’s manual.

What is the best 45-70 ammo for bear defense?

Heavy hard-cast lead loads in the 405–500 grain range are popular for bear
defense due to their deep penetration — but only in rifles rated for those
higher-pressure loads.

Do you sell 45-70 ammo in bulk?

Yes — check our bulk and case listings for the best per-round pricing on
in-stock loads.