Quigley Down Under, the 1990 Western starring Tom Selleck, captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and thrilling storyline. Beyond the compelling narrative, however, lies a fascinating debate surrounding the film's central weapon: the Sharps 1874 rifle chambered in .45-70 Government. This seemingly simple detail sparked considerable discussion among firearms enthusiasts and historians, and understanding the .45-70's role in the film requires a deep dive into its capabilities and the context of the movie's setting.
The .45-70 Government: A Closer Look
The .45-70 Government cartridge, adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, is a powerful black powder round. Its defining characteristics are:
- Caliber: .45 inch (11.43 mm)
- Case Length: 2.105 inches
- Typical Bullet Weight: 300-500 grains (19-32 grams)
- Muzzle Velocity: ~1300-1500 fps (depending on load)
This potent cartridge was effective at relatively long ranges for its time, particularly against large game and human targets. The significant recoil, however, was a factor that needed to be managed.
The .45-70's Effectiveness at Long Range
A key point of contention surrounding the film revolves around the Sharps rifle's purported accuracy at extreme distances. While the .45-70 is capable of hitting targets at considerable distances, the accuracy depicted in Quigley Down Under is debated amongst firearms experts. Several factors influence long-range accuracy:
- Bullet Design: The type of bullet greatly affects accuracy and trajectory. Modern, jacketed bullets offer superior accuracy and ballistic coefficients compared to the lead bullets available in the 1870s.
- Rifling: The rifling twist rate of the barrel influences the bullet's stability in flight.
- Atmospheric Conditions: Wind, temperature, and humidity significantly impact bullet trajectory at longer ranges.
- Shooter Skill: The skill of the shooter remains the paramount factor in achieving accuracy, no matter the weapon.
Historical Accuracy and Artistic License
Quigley Down Under takes some liberties with historical accuracy to enhance the drama. While the .45-70 was a powerful and effective cartridge, the consistent, extreme long-range accuracy portrayed in the film is a point of artistic license. This is not to say that long-range shots were impossible, but the frequency and precision depicted are unlikely given the technology and conditions of the time.
The Myth of the "One-Shot-One-Kill" Sharps Rifle
The film portrays Quigley's Sharps as almost magically accurate, consistently achieving one-shot kills at incredible distances. This romanticises the capabilities of the weapon. Although the .45-70 could deliver a lethal blow at long range, factors like bullet drop, wind drift, and the shooter's skill would have made consistent long-range precision extremely difficult.
The Film's Impact on .45-70 Popularity
Despite the historical inaccuracies regarding long-range accuracy, Quigley Down Under had a significant impact on the popularity of the .45-70 cartridge. The film's depiction of the rifle's power and lethality led to renewed interest in both the cartridge and the Sharps rifle itself. This resurgence in popularity contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation for this historical firearm.
Case Study: Modern .45-70 Usage
Today, the .45-70 remains a popular cartridge for hunting large game, and its use in silhouette shooting demonstrates its potential at significant distances, though requiring specialized loads and techniques. Its popularity attests to its power and reliability, even if it doesn't quite match the Hollywood image.
Conclusion: Fact vs. Fiction
Quigley Down Under provides a thrilling, albeit somewhat romanticized, portrayal of the .45-70 Government cartridge and the Sharps 1874 rifle. While the film's depiction of extreme long-range accuracy might not fully align with historical realities, its impact on the enduring legacy of this historical cartridge is undeniable. The movie serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic firearms and the power of cinematic storytelling. Understanding the context and capabilities of the .45-70 allows for a more nuanced appreciation of both the film and the history it evokes.