Shop 45-70 Lever Action Rifles — Classic Power for Modern Hunters

45-70 lever action rifles are more than just firearms — they’re part of American history. From their battlefield origins to their place in modern big-game hunting, these rifles have earned a reputation for exceptional power, rugged reliability, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re hunting elk in the Rockies, bear in Alaska, or just looking for a dependable, hard-hitting brush gun, the 45-70 lever action is up to the task.

At Reloading Supplies HQ, we offer a curated selection of the best 45-70 lever action rifles for sale. Each rifle we carry delivers proven accuracy, dependable cycling, and that unmistakable feel only a lever gun provides.

What is a 45-70 Lever Action Rifle?

The .45-70 Government cartridge was first introduced by the U.S. Army in 1873 and originally paired with the Springfield “Trapdoor” rifle. Its legacy, however, grew when it was chambered in lever action rifles — creating a firearm with a fast rate of fire and massive stopping power.

Modern 45-70 lever actions are versatile, powerful, and ideal for:

• Big game hunting (bear, moose, elk, wild boar) 
• Backwoods survival 
• Ranch defense 
• Collectors and traditionalists 

Why Choose a Lever Action Over Bolt or Semi-Auto?

While bolt-action and modern sporting rifles are popular, the lever action has unique benefits:

✅ Quick Follow-Up Shots: Lever action cycling is fast and intuitive — especially in close brush.
✅ Slim, Lightweight Designs: Many 45-70 lever rifles are compact enough for trekking through dense terrain.
✅ Timeless Appeal: Wood stocks, blued barrels, and classic lines offer more than just function.
✅ Straight-Wall Cartridge Compliant: .45-70 is legal for hunting in many straight-wall-only states.

Top 45-70 Lever Action Rifles We Offer

1. Marlin 1895 Guide Gun

• Barrel: 19.1” 
• Capacity: 6+1 
• Stock: American Walnut or Synthetic 
• Finish: Stainless or Blued 
• Ideal for: Brush hunting, bear country, and heavy cover
  → Check out our full line of Marlin Rifles 

2. Henry All-Weather .45-70 Side Gate

• Barrel: 18.4” 
• Finish: Industrial hard chrome 
• Loading: Side gate + tube 
• Ideal for: Rugged, wet environments
  → Browse Henry Rifles Here 

3. Winchester 1886 Deluxe Lever Action

• Classic throwback with modern reliability 
• Perfect for shooters who appreciate historical craftsmanship
  → Shop Winchester Firearms 

Performance of the .45-70 Cartridge

• Bullet Weights: 300–500 grains 
• Muzzle Velocity: 1,300–2,000 fps (depending on load) 
• Effective Range: 150–250 yards 
• Energy Output: 1,800–3,600 ft-lbs 

This is a cartridge that hits hard and drops big game quickly. When paired with a modern lever action rifle, the 45-70 becomes a highly versatile hunting tool with heritage and firepower built in.

Best Use Cases for 45-70 Lever Action Rifles

These rifles are perfect for deep woods hunting and are known to be extremely effective at short to mid-range. They’re also a top choice for Alaskan guides and off-grid living scenarios.

Pair It With The Right Ammo

We recommend browsing our full collection of .45-70 Government Ammo for everything from practice loads to heavy hunting rounds.

Popular options include:

• Hornady LEVERevolution – flatter trajectory, great for longer shots 
• Remington Core-Lokt – classic hunting load with deep penetration 
• Buffalo Bore – for maximum power and deep bear country defense 

Looking for Accessories?

Complete your lever action setup with:

• Rifle Scopes for short and mid-range 
• Gun Slings for backcountry hikes 
• Ammo Boxes for secure storage 
• Gun Cleaning Kits to maintain your rifle’s legacy 

Need Help Choosing a Rifle?

We’re here to help. Our team understands lever guns and can help you match the right rifle to your budget, use case, and local hunting laws. Don’t hesitate to contact us for expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What’s the recoil like on a 45-70 lever action?
A: It has noticeable recoil, especially with heavy hunting loads, but it’s manageable with a proper stance and pad. Some models have recoil-absorbing stocks or ports.

Q2: Is 45-70 legal for deer hunting in my state?
A: Many states that allow straight-wall cartridges permit the .45-70. Always check your local hunting laws.

Q3: Can I mount a scope on a 45-70 lever action rifle?
A: Yes. Most modern models come drilled and tapped for optics. Some even include Picatinny rails.

Q4: What’s the effective range of a 45-70?
A: It’s most effective within 150–200 yards, depending on the load and rifle. LEVERevolution rounds can stretch that a bit further.

Q5: Is .45-70 overkill for deer?
A: It’s certainly powerful, but it delivers quick, ethical kills — especially in brush where shot placement can be tricky.