Author Topic: 45-70 or 500 S&W (Read 1150 times)

ihunt49 · « **on:** October 23, 2005, 04:06:48 PM »

Hello all. I bought a Handi in .243 a couple of yrs ago and love it. After reading all your tips I can't wait to tune it up. I shoots great right out of the box but it could use a little tweeking.

Anyway, looking to get another Handi and can't decide between the .45-70 or the 500 S&W. Any opinions either way? I plan on hunting deer and bear in the mountains of PA where I am pretty much limited to a shot of 100 yds or less. Thanks!

Cottonwood · « **Reply #1 on:** October 23, 2005, 05:29:01 PM »

Just because I've been there and done that, I will always say when given the choice of 45-70.... go with the 45-70 cartridge. Componants are much cheaper than the 500 S & W.

45454 · « **Reply #2 on:** October 23, 2005, 05:53:36 PM »

Hi ihunt49,
Why not buy/order one,in either caliber,and order the other caliber.
And, you can have both. You would have 2 Handi's.
Then, there's the other option; send in your Handi, without barrels, and order the barrels you want.1 receiver, and 3 barrels.
Well, I bought my HandiRifle about 2 months ago,there abouts,in 45-70.
Synthetic stock.Pretty light.
Kicks like a Missouri mule ! But, I like it !
I picked the 45-70,since it proved itself in years' past.And can get the job done.
For a possible bear hunt,I'll have my F.A. 454 Casull,and 45-70.
45-70 and 454 rounds are loaded by me.
One or the other (45-70/500 S+W) will take down a bear.
Hope you'll make your decision. If you don't reload,here's your chance
to learn how,to feed your rifle(s).
Easy way out: flip a quarter.Which ever is heads/tails, that's what you order.
Good luck with either one !

WashPa · « **Reply #3 on:** October 23, 2005, 05:53:37 PM »

The 45-70 would be a great choice. Montanan's right-ammunition and components for the 45-70 are readily available and at far less cost. Plus, I think it's just plain fun to shoot. Jeff

Mac11700 · « **Reply #4 on:** October 23, 2005, 07:02:33 PM »

Yup...I agree...45-70 all the way...

Mac

Mitch in MI · « **Reply #5 on:** October 24, 2005, 01:05:06 AM »

I think 45454 has a point. If you won't be needing the 243 for a few weeks, send the receiver in for 500 and 45-70 barrels. When you figure out which one you want the most, sell the other on ebay.

ihunt49 · « **Reply #6 on:** October 24, 2005, 12:04:39 PM »

Thanks for the input guys. I'm going to order a .45-70 w/ an extra .280 barrel for it. By the way, heads won! :grin:

Redcat376 · « **Reply #7 on:** October 24, 2005, 02:29:38 PM »

I'm going to be the odd man just because I own the 500 handi and I luv it.
I like the 45/70 and it is easier to find ammo for and reload. I'm currently reloading the 500 and it's the only way to go if you own this caliber until ammo prices drop. I didn't own a big bore and thought about the 45/70 but I got the 500 instead and couldn't be happier!!!! If you own a 45/70 I would not buy a 500 because the 45/70 will do the job!! IF you get the 500 I think you will really like it!! Good luck!!

cwlongshot · « **Reply #8 on:** October 24, 2005, 05:17:27 PM »

Within 100- 150 yards they will prove to be twins as far as performance on game. With the nod going to the 45-70 as the range increases.

The 45-70 is currently cheaper to reload and buy over the counter ammo.

I finally have both, but have yet to really wring out the 500......

Push me to a decision, I would have to go with the 45-70. I KNOW what the 45-70 can/will do. I THINK I know what the 500 MIGHT do.

CW

glock29 · « **Reply #9 on:** October 25, 2005, 06:34:43 AM »

I would choose the 45-70 for one simple reason: The 500 is maximized in a handgun barrel; that is you will not wring out more performance (possibly very little) in a rifle action; the 45-70 when handloaded (I have loads that approach the 375 H&H in terms of muzzle energy/over 4100 ft/lbs) will far exceed the energy level of the 500 S&W, all while having a cost of about 1/3 the price of 500 S&W ammo.