The Enduring Appeal of the 45-70 and the Need for a Scope
The 45-70 cartridge. The name alone evokes images of the American West, rugged individualism, and powerful, hard-hitting performance. Born in the era of the buffalo hunt and the expansion of the American frontier, the 45-70, also known as the 45-70 Government, is a cartridge that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its raw stopping power, impressive trajectory, and versatility in the hands of both seasoned hunters and recreational shooters. The allure of this classic cartridge is undeniable, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and practical effectiveness.
But to truly unlock the potential of a 45-70 rifle, one essential piece of equipment is paramount: the right scope. A quality scope for 45-70 enhances accuracy, extends effective range, and allows for more confident shot placement, particularly in challenging hunting environments. Without a suitable optic, the true capabilities of this powerful cartridge will remain untapped. This article delves into the essential considerations when choosing the best scope for 45-70, providing recommendations to help you make the right choice and maximize your shooting experience.
Understanding what to look for in a scope for 45-70 is crucial to making an informed decision. The recoil generated by the 45-70 is significant, and a poorly chosen scope can lead to problems ranging from discomfort to potential injury and damaged equipment. Durability, clarity, and the right features for your specific hunting or shooting goals are all vital. Let’s explore the most important factors.
The Importance of Magnification
Magnification is arguably the first and most fundamental characteristic to consider. It determines how close the target appears and directly impacts your ability to acquire, identify, and place accurate shots. The ideal magnification range for a scope for 45-70 depends largely on the intended use.
For hunting, where shots may be taken at varying distances, a versatile scope with a variable magnification range is often preferred. Something like a 2-7x or 3-9x scope offers a good balance of field of view at lower magnifications for close-range shots in thick cover and the ability to reach out to moderate distances with higher magnification. This versatility helps when stalking game. Higher magnification can be helpful for identifying the target.
If the primary use is target shooting or long-range hunting, a scope with higher magnification at the upper end of its range, such as a 4-12x or even higher, might be more suitable. However, remember that higher magnification also reduces the field of view, making it harder to track moving targets and acquire targets quickly.
Considering Objective Lens Size
The objective lens, the front lens of the scope, plays a crucial role in light gathering. A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in a brighter image, particularly in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, when game animals are most active.
However, a larger objective lens also means a larger and heavier scope. This added weight can affect the balance of your rifle, so careful consideration is needed. A 40mm to 50mm objective lens is generally a good balance for a hunting scope for 45-70, providing a bright image without adding excessive weight. For target shooting or where light conditions are consistently poor, a slightly larger objective lens may be beneficial. Keep in mind that a larger objective lens will likely require higher scope rings to provide sufficient clearance over the barrel of your 45-70 rifle.
Choosing the Right Reticle
The reticle, the aiming point within the scope, is another critical consideration. Different reticle designs are suited for different shooting applications. The most common reticle types include:
- Duplex Reticle: A simple and versatile reticle with thicker outer posts that taper towards a finer center crosshair. This design is easy to acquire quickly in various lighting conditions. This is a good starting point for many hunters, particularly when using a scope for 45-70 at moderate ranges.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) Reticle: These reticles feature multiple aiming points below the main crosshair, calibrated for specific bullet drop at different distances. BDC reticles are particularly helpful for long-range shooting, allowing for more accurate holdovers to compensate for the 45-70’s trajectory. Because of the arcing trajectory of the 45-70, a BDC reticle is often a great choice.
- Illuminated Reticle: Many scopes feature an illuminated reticle, which uses an internal light source to illuminate the reticle, making it easier to see against a dark background or in low-light conditions. This can be invaluable during dawn and dusk hunts.
The best reticle for you will depend on your shooting style and intended use.
Eye Relief: A Crucial Safety Feature
Eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the ocular lens (the eyepiece) to obtain a full, clear sight picture. The 45-70 is known for its substantial recoil, and insufficient eye relief can lead to the scope slamming into your eyebrow, causing injury. Therefore, adequate eye relief is a non-negotiable requirement for any scope for 45-70.
Aim for a scope with at least 3.5 to 4 inches of eye relief. Some scopes, designed for heavy recoil rifles, provide even more. This extra distance is crucial to provide protection. Always ensure you are comfortable with the eye relief before making a purchase.
The Importance of Durability
A scope for 45-70 needs to be robust and able to withstand the heavy recoil generated by this powerful cartridge. Look for scopes that are built with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the stresses of repeated firing. Features to consider include:
- Waterproof: The scope should be sealed to prevent water intrusion in rain, snow, or when crossing streams.
- Fog-proof: Filled with inert gas (such as nitrogen) to prevent internal fogging in changing temperatures and humidity.
- Shockproof: Designed to withstand the repeated recoil of the 45-70, as well as the occasional bumps and drops that can occur while hunting.
- Construction materials**: High quality scopes often use aircraft grade aluminum for enhanced durability.
Considering Mounting Hardware
The scope’s performance is only as good as the mounting hardware used to secure it to your rifle. Proper mounting is critical to ensure the scope maintains its zero and delivers consistent accuracy. Select scope rings and bases that are specifically designed for the 45-70 and its recoil. High-quality rings, often made from steel, are usually the better investment. Ensure the base is properly secured to the rifle’s receiver, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Proper mounting is just as important as choosing the best scope for 45-70.
Balancing Budget and Features
The price of a scope can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars to thousands. Setting a realistic budget is important. Consider your primary use for the rifle, the level of accuracy you need, and the conditions you’ll be shooting in. While a top-of-the-line scope offers the best features and performance, excellent quality scopes are available at reasonable price points.
Top Scope Recommendations
Now, let’s explore some of the top scopes available, offering excellent performance for your 45-70:
A Versatile Option
This scope strikes an excellent balance of features, performance, and price. Its magnification range (for example, 2-7x or 3-9x) makes it suitable for various shooting scenarios. A rugged design with a waterproof and fog-proof construction adds to its appeal. The reticle is simple and easy to use, providing fast target acquisition. This scope is perfect for general hunting.
This is a quality, reliable, and well-made scope.
This scope fits a wide range of budgets.
A Great Value Option
This scope offers an impressive performance level and a competitive price point. The rugged construction and clarity of the optics make it an outstanding option. The reticle can be chosen for hunting.
This is a great option.
Expect a price that is very friendly to your wallet.
An Option for Extended Range
When looking for longer range shots, this scope can be an excellent choice. The superior glass quality and advanced reticle designs make it ideal.
High quality optics, and rugged design.
The price falls in the middle range.
A Hunting Focused Scope
Designed with hunters in mind, this scope for 45-70 offers exceptional light transmission. It offers quick target acquisition and has a rugged design to be able to handle the recoil.
Best suited for hunting, and excels in those areas.
Expect to find this in the mid to high range for price.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs and shooting style. Compare the features, specifications, and reviews of these and other scopes before making your final decision.
Proper Mounting and Zeroing is Key
Once you’ve selected your scope, proper mounting is crucial. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to securely attach the scope to your rifle. Ensure the rings and bases are properly tightened to prevent movement. After mounting, you’ll need to zero the scope, which involves adjusting the windage and elevation turrets until your point of impact matches your point of aim at a specific distance (usually 100 yards). The best scope is useless if it is not properly mounted and zeroed.
Maintaining Your Scope
Regular maintenance will extend the life of your scope and ensure optimal performance. Clean the lenses regularly with a soft cloth and lens cleaner. Protect the scope from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight when storing it.
By choosing the right scope for 45-70 and following these tips, you can significantly enhance your shooting experience and unlock the full potential of this classic cartridge. A quality optic is not just an accessory; it’s a crucial investment that will improve your accuracy and confidence in the field.
