45-70 vs 30-06: Steel Has Never Been Hit So Hard

Published on November 13, 2022
Duration: 4:05

This video provides a detailed comparison between the .45-70 Government and .30-06 Springfield cartridges, focusing on their performance against mild steel plates at 50 yards. The expert analysis highlights historical context, technical specifications, and practical results, demonstrating that while the .45-70 exhibits greater energy, the .30-06 achieves superior penetration due to its higher velocity and sectional density. A crucial safety warning is issued regarding the dangers of shooting steel.

Quick Summary

In a steel plate penetration test, the .30-06 Springfield cartridge outperformed the .45-70 Government. Despite the .45-70's higher muzzle energy (3838 ft/lbs vs 2870 ft/lbs), the .30-06 achieved deeper penetration on a 1/2 inch steel plate (0.447 inches) due to its higher velocity and sectional density. A safety warning highlights the dangers of shooting steel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Objective
  2. 00:10Test Setup and Cartridge History
  3. 00:27Technical Specifications
  4. 01:161/4 Inch Steel Plate Test
  5. 02:123/8 Inch Steel Plate Test
  6. 03:011/2 Inch Steel Plate Test and Results
  7. 03:34Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cartridge, .45-70 Government or .30-06 Springfield, offers better penetration on steel plates?

.45-70 Government and .30-06 Springfield were tested on mild steel plates. While the .45-70 has more muzzle energy, the .30-06 demonstrated superior penetration on a 1/2 inch steel plate, reaching a depth of 0.447 inches. This is attributed to the .30-06's higher velocity and sectional density.

What were the key ballistic specifications for the .45-70 Government and .30-06 Springfield in this test?

The .45-70 Government was tested with a 300gr Soft Point bullet at 2400 FPS, yielding 3838 ft/lbs of energy. The .30-06 Springfield used a 165gr Federal Soft Point bullet at 2800 FPS, producing 2870 ft/lbs of energy. Both were fired from 18-inch barrels.

What safety precautions are necessary when shooting steel targets?

Shooting steel targets can be dangerous due to potential ricochets and fragmentation. The video explicitly warns viewers not to attempt these tests at home, emphasizing the need for proper safety protocols and awareness of the risks involved with steel impacts.

What historical context is provided for the .45-70 and .30-06 cartridges?

The .45-70 Government cartridge has a long history, dating back to its introduction in 1873. The .30-06 Springfield is a more modern cartridge, having been introduced in 1906. This historical difference influences their design and performance characteristics.

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