The Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 is a cartridge that has sparked considerable interest among hunters and shooters. Its unique design promises flatter trajectories and increased accuracy compared to traditional 45-70 Government rounds, making it a compelling choice for lever-action rifles. This in-depth review delves into the performance characteristics, practical applications, and overall value of the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right ammunition for your needs. This review will cover the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 in detail, examining its ballistics, accuracy, and suitability for various hunting scenarios.
Understanding the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70's Design
The key to the Leverevolution's success lies in its innovative bullet design. Unlike traditional 45-70 rounds, which use heavier, round-nosed bullets, the Leverevolution utilizes a pointed, polymer-tipped bullet. This design significantly reduces drag, resulting in a flatter trajectory and extended effective range. The polymer tip also contributes to improved accuracy and better penetration.
Bullet Design and Ballistics
The pointed bullet design is crucial to the Leverevolution's performance. Here's a comparison to standard 45-70 Government ammunition:
| Feature | Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 | Standard 45-70 Government |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Type | Polymer-tipped, pointed | Round-nose, flat-nose |
| Bullet Weight | Typically 300 grains | Varies, often 300-500 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | Significantly higher | Lower |
| Trajectory | Flatter | Arcing |
| Effective Range | Extended | Shorter |
Note: Specific velocities and ranges will vary depending on the firearm used and the specific load. Always consult the ammunition manufacturer's data and your firearm's manual.
Case Design and Function
The Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 utilizes a shorter, more streamlined case design. This enables the round to cycle reliably through lever-action rifles, which often have shorter actions compared to bolt-action rifles. This design ensures reliable feeding and extraction, a critical feature for hunting scenarios.
Hornady Leverevolution 45-70: Performance in the Field
The performance of the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 has been praised by many users. Its flatter trajectory allows for more accurate shots at longer ranges. This advantage is particularly beneficial in hunting situations where longer shots are sometimes unavoidable.
Accuracy Testing and Results
Several independent tests and user reviews have demonstrated the increased accuracy of the Leverevolution compared to standard 45-70 ammunition. The pointed bullet design contributes to reduced wind drift and better grouping, leading to improved accuracy at various distances.
Case Study: A recent test using a Marlin 1895 lever-action rifle showed that the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 delivered sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards, while standard 45-70 rounds grouped significantly wider. While results can vary, such tests consistently show the superiority of the Leverevolution's accuracy.
Hunting Applications and Effectiveness
The Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 is a suitable choice for hunting a wide variety of game. Its high muzzle energy and deep penetration make it effective on larger game animals, while its accuracy makes it ideal for shots at longer ranges.
- Suitable Game: Deer, elk, bear (depending on size and caliber selection), and other large game.
- Effective Range: Considerably extended compared to traditional 45-70, although responsible shot placement remains paramount.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 offers many advantages, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks:
- Cost: Leverevolution ammunition is generally more expensive than standard 45-70 rounds.
- Rifle Compatibility: Ensure your lever-action rifle is compatible with the Leverevolution before purchasing. Some older rifles might not reliably cycle these rounds.
- Recoil: The higher velocity of the Leverevolution results in increased recoil compared to standard 45-70 loads.
Conclusion: Is the Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 Right for You?
The Hornady Leverevolution 45-70 is a superior cartridge for hunters and shooters seeking improved accuracy and extended range from their lever-action rifles. Its innovative design delivers significant performance gains compared to traditional 45-70 ammunition. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the higher cost and the need for rifle compatibility. If you're looking to maximize the potential of your 45-70 lever-action rifle, then the Hornady Leverevolution is a worthy investment. The enhanced accuracy, flatter trajectory, and greater effective range make it a top choice for serious hunters.