Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off Review

First Impressions of Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off

The Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition is not your average handgun load; it’s a powerhouse designed for serious stopping power, particularly in large-bore handguns chambered for the venerable 45-70 cartridge. Offered by Grizzly Cartridge, this ammunition promises bone-crushing energy and deep penetration, primarily intended for hunting or defense against dangerous game. Its +P rating and heavy 420-grain bullet immediately signal its intended purpose.

My search for this particular round stemmed from a recurring problem faced during backcountry excursions in bear country. I needed a reliable handgun load capable of dispatching a threat quickly and humanely should a close encounter occur. I needed something far more substantial than standard self-defense rounds.

Upon receiving the package, the first thing that struck me was the heft of the box. The tightly packed rounds exuded a sense of serious intent. The brass cases are clean and well-formed, and the wide long nose gas check bullet design looks menacingly effective.

Compared to standard pressure 45-70 loads I’ve used in rifles, this Grizzly Cartridge offering felt like a different beast altogether. While I considered other +P loads from Buffalo Bore, I opted for Grizzly Cartridge due to their reputation for consistent quality and the specific Wide Long Nose Gas Check bullet design, which seemed ideal for maximizing penetration. My initial impression was a blend of excitement and respect for the sheer power contained within those 20 rounds.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition at a private range in Montana, specifically simulating a close-range defensive scenario against a large, dense target. The handgun used was a Magnum Research BFR (Big Frame Revolver) chambered in 45-70. The weather was dry and cool, typical for the region.

The recoil was, as expected, substantial – far more significant than standard 45-70 loads in a rifle. Control was manageable with a firm grip and proper technique, but it was clear that this ammunition demands respect and a well-trained shooter. The rounds fed and extracted flawlessly from the BFR.

There were no malfunctions. The accuracy at 25 yards was impressive, with consistent groupings well within the vital zone of a bear-sized target.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional range sessions, including about 100 rounds fired, the Grizzly Cartridge ammunition has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There have been no failures to fire, no squibs, and no noticeable degradation in performance. The brass cases show no signs of excessive pressure.

The ammunition has held up well in storage. I have stored the ammunition in a cool, dry environment in its original packaging, and have noticed no issues with corrosion or degradation. This is an important point to consider for long-term storage.

Compared to my previous experience with other defensive handgun rounds, the Grizzly Cartridge ammunition offers a significant increase in felt recoil and terminal performance. The 420-grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check bullet penetrates deeply and creates a devastating wound channel. This far outperforms other ammunition that I have used in the past in terms of kinetic energy transfer.

Breaking Down the Features of Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off

Specifications

The Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition boasts the following specifications:

• Caliber: .45-70 Government This is a classic big-bore cartridge known for its significant power.
• Bullet Weight: 420 grain This is a heavy bullet, maximizing momentum and penetration.
• Bullet Type: Wide Long Nose Gas Check The Wide Long Nose promotes straight, deep penetration, and the gas check minimizes lead fouling in the barrel.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2000 ft/s This high velocity contributes to the round’s impressive energy.
• Muzzle Energy: 3730 ft-lbs This immense energy ensures significant stopping power.
• Cartridge Case Material: Brass Brass cases are reloadable and resist corrosion.
• Primer Style: Centerfire Centerfire primers are reliable and consistent.
• Number of Rounds: 20 This is a standard quantity for a box of premium ammunition.
• Application: Bear This ammunition is specifically designed for defense against bears.
• Lead Free: No This ammunition utilizes lead, which provides maximum penetration and kinetic energy transfer.
• Manufacturer: Grizzly Cartridge Grizzly Cartridge has a reputation for producing high-quality ammunition.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the ammunition’s terminal performance and suitability for its intended purpose. The heavy bullet weight, high velocity, and substantial energy combine to deliver a powerful and deeply penetrating round ideal for stopping large and dangerous game.

Performance & Functionality

The Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition performs its job with exceptional authority. Accuracy is excellent, with consistent groupings at reasonable handgun distances (25-50 yards). The reliability is flawless, with no malfunctions experienced during testing.

The Wide Long Nose Gas Check bullet design functions as intended. This bullet provides deep penetration and minimizes leading. The +P rating ensures maximum energy transfer upon impact.

One significant strength is the ammunition’s ability to deliver consistent and predictable performance. A potential weakness is the significant recoil. Recoil requires a skilled shooter to maintain control and accuracy.

Design & Ergonomics

The ammunition’s design is straightforward and functional. The brass cases are clean and well-formed, and the bullet is properly seated and crimped. The Wide Long Nose profile is optimized for penetration.

The ammunition is not particularly ergonomic, as it is designed to be loaded into a firearm rather than handled directly. However, the packaging is sturdy and protects the rounds during transport and storage. The large rimmed cartridge design also aids in ensuring reliable extraction.

Durability & Maintenance

The ammunition itself is highly durable, thanks to the brass case and well-constructed bullet. As previously stated, long-term storage in a cool, dry environment is essential to prevent corrosion. Cleaning and maintenance are not applicable to the ammunition itself but rather to the firearm used to fire it.

Proper cleaning of the firearm after shooting this ammunition, including the barrel and chamber, is crucial to remove any powder residue or lead fouling that may accumulate. This is particularly important given the high pressures and heavy bullet weight.

Accessories and Customization Options

No accessories are included with the ammunition itself. Customization options are limited to selecting different bullet weights or types from other manufacturers.

While the ammunition is not directly customizable, the user can choose to pair it with different handguns chambered in 45-70. The choice of handgun will significantly impact the shooter’s ability to manage recoil and achieve accurate shot placement. This ammunition is best suited for strong, heavy-framed revolvers designed to handle the immense pressures of +P 45-70 loads.

Pros and Cons of Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off?

This ammunition is perfect for:

• Hunters: Specifically, those hunting large and dangerous game such as bear, moose, or wild boar, where maximum stopping power is essential.
• Backcountry Hikers and Campers: Individuals venturing into areas with a high risk of encountering dangerous wildlife, needing a reliable self-defense option.
• Experienced Shooters: Those with the skill and strength to manage the significant recoil of +P 45-70 loads.

Who should skip this product? Novice shooters, individuals sensitive to recoil, or those using firearms not rated for +P ammunition. This ammunition is not suitable for recreational target shooting due to its high cost and excessive power.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality, heavy-framed revolver chambered in 45-70 and rated for +P loads, such as the Magnum Research BFR. A comfortable and secure holster is also essential for carrying the handgun in the field.

Conclusion on Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition GC45/70+P7 $2.00 Off

The Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition is a specialized product designed for a specific purpose: delivering maximum stopping power in a handgun. It achieves this goal with exceptional authority. The ammunition is reliable, accurate, and devastatingly effective on large game.

The price is justified for those who require the level of performance it offers. If you are a hunter or backcountry enthusiast venturing into dangerous game country, the peace of mind provided by this ammunition is well worth the investment.

I would personally recommend this ammunition to experienced shooters who understand the risks and responsibilities associated with carrying a powerful handgun for self-defense. If you demand the utmost in stopping power and are willing to train diligently to master its recoil, the Grizzly Cartridge 45-70 +P 420 Grain Wide Long Nose Gas Check Pistol Ammunition is an excellent choice. Prepare yourself, respect the power, and stay safe out there.