45-70 vs 30-30: Did Not Expect This

Published on January 2, 2026
Duration: 12:45

This video provides a detailed, expert-level comparison between the .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government calibers, focusing on their barrier penetration capabilities. The host, demonstrating high authority, uses specialized ammunition and Henry SPD rifles to test performance against wood, concrete, sand, and steel. Unexpected results highlight the nuanced performance differences between these classic cartridges, especially with modern ammunition and rifle designs.

Quick Summary

The .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government calibers showed distinct barrier penetration capabilities. The .30-30 excelled in penetrating wood and steel, while the .45-70 demonstrated greater destructive power against concrete. In ballistics gel, the .45-70 created a larger cavity but penetrated less deeply than the .30-30.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: .30-30 vs .45-70 Deer Problem
  2. 00:34Round 1: Lumber Penetration Test
  3. 01:32Ammunition: Gorilla Punisher Series
  4. 03:18Rifles: Henry SPD HUSH & CRUSR Series
  5. 04:14Round 2: Concrete Paver Test
  6. 05:58Round 3: Sand Barrier Test
  7. 07:32Round 4: Mild Steel Penetration
  8. 09:11Final Round: Ballistics Gel Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government compare in barrier penetration tests?

In tests, the .30-30 Winchester surprisingly penetrated deeper into wood and cleanly through 3/16-inch steel. The .45-70 Government showed more destructive power against concrete but was stopped by steel and sand barriers. Both calibers were tested with specialized Gorilla Ammunition Punisher Series loads.

What were the key differences in terminal ballistics between the .30-30 and .45-70 in ballistics gel?

The .45-70 Government created a larger initial wound cavity in 10% ballistics gel, stopping at 29.25 inches. The .30-30 Winchester produced a smaller wound channel but achieved deeper penetration, exiting two full blocks, indicating it traveled further.

What specialized rifles were used in the .30-30 vs .45-70 comparison?

The video featured Henry Special Products Division (SPD) rifles. The HUSH series, designed as a suppressor host, and the CRUSR series, featuring Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coated internal parts for smoothness, were showcased. Both models utilized carbon fiber barrels.

Did the specialized Gorilla Ammunition Punisher Series loads affect the performance of the .30-30 and .45-70 calibers?

Yes, the Gorilla Ammunition Punisher Series, featuring solid copper hollow points with unique 'shot glass' and 'whiskey glass' designs, was used to maximize expansion and barrier performance. This specialized ammunition likely influenced the observed penetration and terminal effects for both calibers.

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