Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For lever-gun hunters facing heavy game at moderate ranges, the Underwood 45-70 Government +P 430-grain flat nose lead-free ammunition brings serious energy to the field. This load pushes a 430-grain flat nose projectile to 1925 feet per second, generating 3537 foot-pounds of muzzle energy at the muzzle. The 45-70 Government +P cartridge operates at higher chamber pressures than standard 45-70 loads — verify your firearm is rated for +P pressures before firing. Underwood manufactures this ammunition in the United States using non-corrosive Boxer primers in nickel-plated brass cases.
Built for the Box
The flat nose profile maintains forward orientation during penetration through dense tissue and bone, delivering straight-line wound channels critical for anchoring large game such as black bear, wild hog, or elk at woods distances. Underwood applies a proprietary Black Cherry polymer coating to the hardcast bullet, eliminating lead-to-bore contact and virtually removing lead fouling even at these elevated velocities. The coating withstands the thermal and pressure environment inside the bore without degrading or emitting plastic odors during firing. Nickel-plated brass cases resist tarnish and corrosion when exposed to moisture or leather contact in belt loops and saddlebags, and the nickel surface enhances feeding reliability across lever-action and single-shot platforms.
Performance at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45-70 Government +P |
| Bullet weight | 430 grains |
| Bullet type | Flat Nose (Lead Free, Black Cherry coated) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1925 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 3537 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel Plated Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Velocity rating | Supersonic |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammo |
This load runs clean in rifles chambered for +P pressures, leaving minimal fouling after extended range sessions. The supersonic velocity rating delivers flat trajectory out to 150 yards, and the hardcast construction ensures the bullet retains mass through heavy bone and muscle. For more hunting-focused 45-70 ammunition options, browse our 45-70 ammo selection.
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.
- Observe the four rules of firearm safety at all times
- Verify your firearm is rated for +P chamber pressures before firing this ammunition
- This ammunition contains lead-free projectiles but may still require California Proposition 65 disclosures — check state and local hunting regulations
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