The choice between a 12-gauge slug and a .45-70 Government cartridge often arises in discussions about hunting large game and even home defense. Both are powerful rounds capable of taking down significant targets, but they differ significantly in several key aspects. This in-depth comparison will explore their strengths and weaknesses to help you determine which cartridge best suits your needs.
Understanding the Contenders: 12 Gauge Slug and .45-70
Both the 12-gauge slug and the .45-70 Government are powerful cartridges with a long history. However, their design and application differ substantially.
The 12 Gauge Slug: Versatility in a Shotgun
The 12-gauge shotgun is a versatile platform, capable of firing a wide variety of ammunition, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Slugs are essentially single projectiles designed for longer-range accuracy compared to shot. They offer several advantages:
- Accessibility and Affordability: 12-gauge shotguns and ammunition are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to many rifles.
- Stopping Power: Depending on the slug type (rifled slugs offer superior accuracy), 12-gauge slugs deliver substantial stopping power at close to medium range, making them effective for hunting deer-sized game and even home defense.
- Variety of Slug Types: From rifled slugs for accuracy to foster slugs for penetration, there's a 12-gauge slug for various hunting situations.
- Ease of Use: Shotguns are generally considered easier to learn and operate than rifles, particularly for beginners.
However, there are drawbacks:
- Range Limitations: While rifled slugs improve accuracy, the effective range of a 12-gauge slug is significantly less than that of a .45-70. Beyond 100 yards, accuracy drops substantially.
- Recoil: 12-gauge slugs generate considerable recoil, which can be uncomfortable, especially for less experienced shooters.
- Sight Picture: While some shotguns feature improved sights, acquiring a precise sight picture can be more challenging compared to a rifle.
The .45-70 Government: A Heavyweight Contender
The .45-70 Government cartridge is a powerful, large-bore round with a long and storied history. Originally designed for the Springfield Trapdoor rifle, it has seen use in hunting large game and even military applications. Its advantages include:
- Exceptional Stopping Power: The .45-70 delivers devastating stopping power, making it effective for hunting extremely large and dangerous game, such as bear or elk. Its heavy bullet retains energy at longer ranges.
- Long Range Accuracy: Compared to 12-gauge slugs, the .45-70 offers significantly improved accuracy and effective range, often exceeding 200 yards with appropriate ammunition and rifles.
- Heavy Bullet Penetration: The large, heavy bullet of the .45-70 penetrates deeply, making it particularly effective for taking down large animals.
Its drawbacks include:
- Cost: .45-70 ammunition is more expensive than 12-gauge slugs.
- Recoil: The .45-70 generates substantial recoil, even more than a 12-gauge slug, which can be challenging for some shooters.
- Rifle Weight: .45-70 rifles are often heavier than shotguns, making them more cumbersome to carry.
- Availability: While common, .45-70 rifles and ammunition aren't as widely available as 12-gauge shotguns.
Head-to-Head Comparison: 12 Gauge Slug vs .45-70
| Feature | 12 Gauge Slug | .45-70 Government |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 12 Gauge | .45-70 |
| Platform | Shotgun | Rifle |
| Effective Range | ~100 yards (rifled slugs) | >200 yards |
| Stopping Power | High (at close to medium range) | Extremely High |
| Accuracy | Moderate (varies by slug type) | High |
| Recoil | High | Very High |
| Cost | Relatively Low | Relatively High |
| Availability | Widely Available | Widely Available but less than 12ga |
| Versatility | Very Versatile (various shot types) | Limited to rifle ammunition |
| Weight | Lighter (generally) | Heavier (generally) |
Choosing the Right Cartridge: Hunting vs. Self-Defense
The optimal choice depends entirely on your intended use.
Hunting:
- Deer-sized game at closer ranges: A 12-gauge slug is an excellent choice, offering good stopping power and relatively easy handling.
- Larger game (bear, elk) at longer ranges: The .45-70 is the superior choice for its superior stopping power and longer effective range.
Home Defense:
- Close quarters: A 12-gauge shotgun, using slugs or buckshot, provides ample stopping power in close-quarters situations. However, the risk of overpenetration is higher than with a rifle.
- Longer ranges (unlikely in a home defense scenario): The .45-70's greater range is unnecessary but provides more stopping power. However, the greater recoil and difficulty of handling make it less ideal than a shotgun for home defense.
Conclusion: Know Your Needs
Both the 12-gauge slug and the .45-70 Government cartridge are potent choices for specific applications. Consider the factors outlined above – range, stopping power, recoil, cost, and availability – to choose the cartridge that best aligns with your hunting or self-defense needs. Always prioritize safety and proper training when handling firearms.