The trajectory of a projectile fired from a .45-70 Government cartridge rifle deviates significantly from a straight line due to gravity. At a distance of 200 yards, this deviation, often referred to as vertical descent, becomes a critical factor for accurate shooting. This necessitates adjustments to the aiming point, typically by holding the sights above the intended target or adjusting the scope’s elevation settings.
Understanding this ballistic characteristic is crucial for successful hunting and long-range target shooting with the .45-70 cartridge. Historically, this knowledge was essential for marksmanship with this powerful round, originally developed for military use in the late 19th century. Accurate estimation of projectile descent allows modern shooters to effectively utilize the .45-70’s capabilities at longer ranges. This consideration is especially relevant given the resurgence in popularity of this classic cartridge for both hunting and recreational shooting.