A Glimpse into the Past and the Genesis of Power
To truly appreciate the capabilities of these rounds, we must journey back in time to understand their origins. The .45-70 Government, a cartridge steeped in history, emerged in the year eighteen seventy-three. Developed for the U.S. Army, it became the standard issue round for the Springfield Model of 1873, a rifle that played a pivotal role in the American West. This cartridge, affectionately nicknamed the “Forty-five Seventy,” was designed to be a versatile tool, capable of delivering effective firepower on the battlefield and in the unforgiving environment of the frontier. The .45-70 quickly gained a reputation for its considerable stopping power and became a favorite among buffalo hunters and settlers alike. It represents a significant chapter in American history, embodying the spirit of ruggedness and self-reliance.
In contrast, the .50 Alaskan, while also firmly rooted in American firearms heritage, is a product of a later era, born from a specific need. Emerging in the nineteen fifties, this cartridge was the brainchild of Harold Johnson, a custom gunsmith who sought to create a more powerful cartridge for use in the popular Winchester Model 71 rifle. The inspiration for the .50 Alaskan came from the desire to deliver exceptional stopping power for hunting large and potentially dangerous game, particularly in the rugged Alaskan wilderness. This round isn’t just about raw power; it is a deliberate response to the challenge of facing formidable adversaries in the field. The creation of the .50 Alaskan marked a revival of interest in big-bore cartridges, setting a new standard for performance. The .50 Alaskan wasn’t initially adopted by any major military force, but instead, it was crafted for a specialized, demanding purpose: to stop big game. The .50 Alaskan wasn’t initially adopted by any major military force, but instead, it was crafted for a specialized, demanding purpose: to stop big game.
Unveiling the Ballistic Differences
Understanding the raw data behind these cartridges is essential for a sound comparison. Let’s examine the ballistics, delving into the core elements of each round’s performance. The most fundamental difference between these two powerhouses lies in their bullet diameter. The .45-70, as the name suggests, fires a bullet with a diameter of point four five eight inches. The .50 Alaskan, on the other hand, uses a significantly larger bullet, measuring point five one zero inches. This difference in diameter results in a notable difference in the amount of lead being sent downrange, a crucial factor in energy transfer and stopping power.
The weight of the bullets available for each round further contributes to their ballistic profiles. The .45-70 can utilize a wide range of bullet weights, typically spanning from around three hundred grains to over five hundred grains. These various bullet options allow shooters to tailor their loads to suit the specific game they are pursuing. For instance, lighter bullets are often favored for longer-range shots, while heavier bullets are typically used when maximum penetration is required. The .50 Alaskan, due to its inherently larger bore, generally uses heavier bullets. These heavier projectiles are usually in the range of three hundred and fifty to five hundred grains. This emphasis on heavier bullets allows the .50 Alaskan to deliver tremendous energy and achieve high levels of penetration, especially important when confronting large, thick-skinned animals.
Moving on to muzzle velocity and energy, we see another significant divergence. The .45-70, while capable, is generally considered a lower-velocity round, especially when compared to modern rifle cartridges. Depending on the load and the rifle used, muzzle velocities for the .45-70 can range from around twelve hundred to one thousand eight hundred feet per second. The energy at the muzzle is also substantial, often between two thousand to three thousand foot-pounds, enough power to bring down larger game effectively. The .50 Alaskan, due to its increased case capacity and heavier bullets, typically generates higher muzzle velocities, usually ranging from around fourteen hundred to two thousand feet per second. The energy output is correspondingly higher, often exceeding three thousand foot-pounds, and sometimes reaching over four thousand foot-pounds at the muzzle. This considerable energy translates to superior stopping power, crucial when hunting dangerous game.
Trajectory and effective range represent another vital aspect of any ballistic discussion. Because of its flatter trajectory and higher velocity, the .50 Alaskan offers a more point-blank range compared to the .45-70. At longer ranges, the heavier .50 Alaskan bullets retain their velocity better than the .45-70, providing a more consistent impact. The .45-70, on the other hand, is known for its pronounced bullet drop, particularly beyond two hundred yards. While effective at close to medium ranges, the .45-70 demands more precise holdover adjustments at longer distances. The .50 Alaskan’s flatter trajectory allows for quicker and more accurate shots at varying ranges, particularly beneficial in hunting situations where time is of the essence.
Performance in the Field: Hunting Applications and Platform Considerations
The best cartridge for a hunt depends heavily on the game and the environment. The .45-70 has proven itself a versatile choice for various big game species. It is an effective round for deer, elk, and black bear, offering sufficient power for ethical shots. However, it has its limitations. While the .45-70 can certainly be used for larger game, its trajectory and relatively lower energy may require closer-range shooting and careful shot placement to ensure effective results. The .50 Alaskan, on the other hand, is in a different class. Designed for stopping power against large, potentially dangerous game such as brown bear, moose, and even the African big five, the .50 Alaskan delivers exceptional penetration and devastating energy transfer, crucial when confronting the most challenging quarry. The heavier bullets and superior power of the .50 Alaskan make it a formidable tool for the demanding requirements of dangerous-game hunting.
The choice of rifle platform also influences the practical application of each round. The .45-70 is typically found in lever-action rifles, such as those produced by Marlin and Henry Repeating Arms. These lever-action rifles are known for their quick handling characteristics, reliability, and ease of operation. They are especially well-suited for fast follow-up shots, an advantage in scenarios where multiple targets are possible. The .45-70 also appears in single-shot rifles, like the Ruger No.1, which offer superior accuracy and a more traditional aesthetic. Conversely, the .50 Alaskan, with its specialized nature, is primarily built on custom rifles. Many of these are derived from the Winchester Model 71, adapted to accommodate the larger .50 Alaskan cartridge. The .50 Alaskan’s reliance on customized rifles is a reflection of its limited production run and the specialized requirements of this round. The custom nature of the rifles chambered in the .50 Alaskan is one reason that they are less common.
When comparing the recoil and the overall handling, it is essential to consider the shooter’s comfort. The .45-70, though powerful, generally produces manageable recoil, particularly when fired from heavier lever-action rifles. The .45-70, depending on the rifle and the load, can be handled by many shooters, even those with a more slight build. The .50 Alaskan, however, delivers a significant recoil impulse. The combination of a heavy bullet and a larger case leads to substantial recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters. This elevated recoil dictates that those who wield the .50 Alaskan must be prepared for it, developing good shooting techniques and managing the physical strain of the firing cycle.
Examining the Supply Chain: Availability and Cost
A crucial consideration for any prospective user is the availability and cost of ammunition. The .45-70 enjoys a wide range of factory ammunition, with options from various manufacturers catering to diverse needs. This wide availability ensures that shooters can easily find ammunition for their hunting or target shooting. The cost of .45-70 ammunition is generally considered affordable, making this a popular choice for many shooters. The widespread availability of components for handloading also presents additional advantages for .45-70 shooters. Shooters can customize their loads to precisely meet their requirements.
The .50 Alaskan, in contrast, presents a different scenario. Factory ammunition is relatively scarce, limiting the options available. Consequently, handloading becomes almost mandatory for .50 Alaskan users, providing greater control over bullet selection, powder charges, and overall performance. The cost of ammunition for the .50 Alaskan is typically higher, due to the specialized nature of the round and the limited production runs. This higher cost is something to consider when planning to buy and use this cartridge.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Let us carefully weigh the pros and cons of each round: The .45-70’s benefits include a long history of proven performance. The availability of ammunition is widespread, with readily available factory loads and components for handloading. The .45-70 has a versatile range of applications, making it suitable for hunting various game species. The recoil is generally manageable. Yet, the .45-70 has some weaknesses. While capable, its stopping power is not as great as the .50 Alaskan, especially on dangerous game. Its trajectory demands more precise range estimation and bullet drop compensation at longer distances.
The .50 Alaskan offers exceptional stopping power, a crucial asset in dangerous game encounters. Its performance in the field is truly exceptional. However, the .50 Alaskan faces limitations. The cost of ammunition is elevated, which, coupled with the handloading requirement, can present a barrier to entry. Recoil is substantial, which can influence shooter fatigue and reduce overall shooting performance. The availability of factory ammunition is limited. Custom rifles are mostly required to handle the larger cartridges.
Concluding Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tool for the Task
In the world of powerful cartridges, the choice between the .50 Alaskan and the .45-70 hinges on your intended use and preferences. The .45-70 represents a well-established and versatile option, ideal for hunters seeking an effective and reasonably priced round for various game species. It’s a classic choice, offering a blend of power, precision, and readily available resources.
If you plan to pursue large, dangerous game at close range, the .50 Alaskan emerges as the superior choice. The .50 Alaskan is a cartridge that prioritizes the ability to stop, to do so quickly and decisively. The impressive energy transfer and exceptional stopping power make it an outstanding tool for those seeking the ultimate in protection and performance.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that meets your specific requirements and enhances your experience in the field. Careful evaluation of your needs, a consideration of the game you pursue, and the environments where you plan to hunt will steer you toward the right choice. Before deciding, we recommend that you seek out expert advice and evaluate the specific rifles and ammunition to choose from. With the proper evaluation, you can make a selection that improves your capabilities and your appreciation for the heritage of firearms.
