Quigley Down Under, the 1990 film starring Tom Selleck, immortalized the sharpshooting prowess of a man and his rifle. But the movie's romanticized depiction of the American frontier often overshadows the fascinating details of the firearm itself. The question burning in many minds, both gun enthusiasts and movie buffs, is: What caliber was Quigley's rifle? The answer is the iconic .45-70 Government, a cartridge with a rich history that deserves closer examination.
Understanding the .45-70 Government Cartridge
The .45-70 Government cartridge, also known as the .45-70, isn't just a random choice for a movie prop; it holds a significant place in American firearms history. Adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, it saw extensive service in conflicts such as the Indian Wars and the Spanish-American War. Its powerful stopping power made it a favorite among soldiers and frontiersmen alike.
- Caliber: .45 (approximately 11.43mm)
- Case Length: 2.1 inches (53.3 mm)
- Bullet Weight: Typically ranged from 300 to 500 grains (19 to 32 grams) depending on the application and load.
- Muzzle Velocity: Varied significantly based on barrel length and powder charge. Early military loads were slower than modern handloads.
The .45-70's success stemmed from a number of factors:
- Stopping Power: Its large diameter bullet and substantial weight delivered devastating energy on target. It was exceptionally effective at bringing down large game and was highly effective in combat.
- Reliability: The cartridge proved remarkably reliable even under harsh conditions.
- Availability: The widespread adoption by the military ensured a consistent supply of ammunition.
The .45-70 in Quigley Down Under
In the film, the rifle is depicted as accurate at extremely long ranges, exceeding the capabilities of the average .45-70 rifle of the time. While the film takes creative license, the use of the .45-70 as Quigley's caliber is historically plausible. The rifle's accuracy in the movie is a testament to both the skill of the marksman and the potential of the cartridge when properly loaded and used with a high-quality firearm.
The movie, however, glosses over the technological advances needed to achieve the extreme ranges depicted. Modern handloads using better powders and bullets would be needed to reach the accuracy and range shown on screen.
The Rifle Itself: More Than Just a Caliber
While the .45-70 caliber is a key aspect of Quigley's rifle, it's important to note that the firearm itself is also noteworthy. The movie features a custom-made Sharps rifle, a design that was popular during the late 19th century for its accuracy and power. The Sharps rifle was known for its strong action and its ability to be loaded quickly and accurately.
Sharps Rifles and Their Role in the Old West
Sharps rifles were frequently used in the American West by both military and civilian shooters. Their long barrels and accuracy were ideal for hunting and long-range shooting. The combination of a powerful cartridge like the .45-70 and a precision rifle like the Sharps made for a formidable hunting and combat tool.
Beyond the Movie: The .45-70 Today
The .45-70 continues to be a popular cartridge today. It's still used for hunting large game, particularly in North America. It's also enjoyed by many collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and powerful performance. The versatility and continued popularity of the .45-70 is a testament to its enduring legacy.
The availability of factory ammunition and reloading components keeps the cartridge viable in the modern era.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
So, to answer the initial question: What caliber was Quigley's rifle? It was the .45-70 Government. But the story is far richer than just a single caliber. The .45-70's history, the unique capabilities of the Sharps rifle, and the enduring appeal of Quigley Down Under all contribute to the lasting legacy of this iconic combination. The film might have taken some liberties, but its impact on popularizing the .45-70 and its place in American history is undeniable.