Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
For hunters running Remington Core-Lokt 45-70 Government ammo in older lever guns or Trapdoor Springfields, this 405-grain reduced-pressure load solves a critical safety problem: full-pressure smokeless loads can exceed the design limits of rifles built between 1873 and 1895. Remington’s 45-70 Government load holds chamber pressure below 18,000 CUP — safe for all 45-70 chambered rifles — while delivering a 405-grain jacketed soft point at 1330 fps. That velocity produces 1590 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, enough to anchor deer, black bear, and feral hogs inside 150 yards with proper shot placement.
Load Profile
The 405-grain JSP expands on impact while retaining 70–80% of its original weight, a trait Remington engineered into the Core-Lokt bullet in 1939. The lead core mechanically locks to the jacket via a series of internal rings, preventing core-jacket separation even when the bullet strikes heavy bone. At reduced velocity, this slug penetrates 18–24 inches in ballistic gelatin — deep enough to reach vitals on quartering shots without fragmenting. Remington uses boxer-primed brass cases, so you can reload these once-fired hulls with cast lead or jacketed bullets when components are available.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Bullet weight | 405 grains |
| Bullet type | Jacketed Soft Point |
| Muzzle velocity | 1330 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1590 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Remington |
This reduced-pressure recipe makes it safe to run in Trapdoor Springfields, Rolling Blocks, and early Winchester lever guns — platforms that cannot safely digest modern high-pressure 45-70 loads pushing 2000+ fps. Match your rifle’s year of manufacture and proof marks to the load data in your manual before chambering any 45-70 ammo.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and your finger off the trigger until ready to fire — review the four rules before handling any firearm.
- Verify your rifle’s proof marks and year of manufacture before loading reduced-pressure or full-pressure 45-70 ammunition — consult a qualified gunsmith if unsure.
- This ammunition contains lead; exposure during handling or firing can cause reproductive harm — wash hands after use and follow California Proposition 65 guidance.
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