The .360 Buckhammer and the .45-70 Government are both powerful cartridges with a rich history, but they cater to different needs and hunting styles. This in-depth comparison will explore their ballistics, applications, recoil characteristics, and overall suitability for various hunting scenarios. Understanding the nuances of each will help you choose the right cartridge for your hunting adventures.
Ballistics Comparison: .360 Buckhammer vs .45-70
The key differences between the .360 Buckhammer and the .45-70 lie in their ballistic profiles. The .360 Buckhammer, a relatively newer cartridge, is designed for speed and flat trajectory, while the .45-70, a classic, emphasizes power and stopping power at longer ranges.
Velocity and Energy
| Cartridge | Typical Velocity (fps) | Typical Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| .360 Buckhammer | 2,400 - 2,600 | 2,800 - 3,200 |
| .45-70 Gov't | 1,800 - 2,200 | 2,000 - 2,800 |
Note: Velocities and energies can vary depending on the specific load and barrel length.
As the table illustrates, the .360 Buckhammer boasts significantly higher velocities, resulting in flatter trajectories and better long-range accuracy for its caliber. The .45-70, while slower, delivers substantial energy, particularly effective at close to medium ranges.
Trajectory and Range
The higher velocity of the .360 Buckhammer translates to a flatter trajectory. This means less bullet drop at longer distances, making it easier to compensate for holdover. The .45-70, due to its lower velocity, experiences more significant bullet drop, demanding more precise aiming adjustments.
Visual Representation (Illustrative - Actual trajectories vary based on load and conditions):
(Imagine a simple chart here showing two trajectories: a flatter line for the .360 Buckhammer and a more steeply dropping line for the .45-70. This could be easily generated in a spreadsheet program and included as an image)
Recoil
Both cartridges generate significant recoil, but the .45-70 generally exhibits considerably more. The heavier bullet and slower velocity of the .45-70 contribute to a more substantial recoil impulse. The .360 Buckhammer, while still powerful, offers a more manageable recoil experience, which is advantageous for extended shooting sessions.
Hunting Applications: Where Each Cartridge Shines
The choice between the .360 Buckhammer and the .45-70 heavily depends on the target game and hunting conditions.
.360 Buckhammer Applications
- Larger Game at Medium to Long Range: Its flat trajectory and high velocity make it suitable for deer, elk, and even larger game at ranges where precise shot placement is crucial. The lighter recoil also aids in making multiple shots.
- Open Country Hunting: The longer range capabilities are ideal for open spaces where shots can be taken at further distances.
.45-70 Applications
- Close to Medium Range Hunting: Its heavy bullet and substantial energy make it devastating at close to medium ranges, ideal for dense woods or thick brush where longer shots are less reliable.
- Dangerous Game: The .45-70's superior stopping power is traditionally favored for hunting dangerous game, such as bear or boar. Heavy hard-cast bullets are commonly employed for maximum penetration.
- Lever-Action Rifles: The .45-70 is historically associated with lever-action rifles, offering a fast follow-up shot capability.
Case Study: A Comparison of Two Hunters
Imagine two hunters, one using a .360 Buckhammer and the other a .45-70. The first hunter, in open country, takes a clean shot on an elk at 300 yards. The flatter trajectory of the .360 Buckhammer allows for a precise kill shot. The second hunter, deep in the woods, encounters a boar at 50 yards. The .45-70's brutal stopping power delivers a quick and effective kill, despite a less precise shot placement being possible due to the close range.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The "better" cartridge between the .360 Buckhammer and the .45-70 doesn't exist; the ideal choice hinges entirely on your hunting style, game, and preferred shooting experience. The .360 Buckhammer excels in flat trajectory, long range accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it better for open-country hunting of larger game. The .45-70 provides superior stopping power at closer ranges, making it a suitable choice for thick brush or dangerous game hunting. Careful consideration of these factors will guide you to the most appropriate cartridge for your needs.