First Impressions of Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets
The Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets promise a unique blend of subsonic performance and terminal effectiveness for the venerable 45-70 cartridge. Hornady is a name synonymous with quality and innovation, and these bullets represent their foray into specialized ammunition for suppressed rifles. I was immediately intrigued by the concept: a heavy, expanding bullet designed to be effective at low velocities, offering a quiet alternative to traditional 45-70 loads.
I’ve been hunting with the 45-70 for years, primarily for wild hogs in thick brush. The biggest issue I’ve faced is the incredible recoil of standard hunting loads, making quick follow-up shots challenging. I was seeking a load that reduced recoil without sacrificing knockdown power at close ranges, and the Sub-X seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Opening the box, I was struck by the appearance of the bullets. The flat profile and the distinctive Flex Tip immediately set them apart. They felt solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence.
Compared to other 45-70 bullets I’ve used, like the Remington 405-grain JSP and the Buffalo Bore 405-grain hard cast, the Hornady Sub-X offered a drastically different design philosophy. While the Remington is a budget-friendly option for general-purpose shooting and the Buffalo Bore is geared towards maximum penetration, the Sub-X prioritizes controlled expansion at subsonic velocities. I chose these over the others because of the promise of reduced recoil and effective expansion at lower velocities, which is ideal for my suppressed rifle.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Subsonic ammunition can sometimes be finicky. I was eager to see if these bullets would live up to the hype and provide reliable performance in my rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Sub-X bullets at my local shooting range, using my Marlin 1895 SBL equipped with a suppressor. The day was slightly overcast, with a temperature around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The rifle was fitted with a 1-6x LPVO.
The first thing I noticed was the drastically reduced recoil compared to my standard 45-70 loads. It felt more like shooting a .44 Magnum than a 45-70. The sound was also significantly quieter with the suppressor, making for a much more pleasant shooting experience. There was no keyholing on the target at 50 yards.
These rounds proved easy to load into the magazine and chamber without any hitches. No issues or surprises arose after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady Sub-X bullets have proven to be reliable and consistent. I’ve fired approximately 200 rounds through my rifle with no malfunctions. They reliably group within 2 inches at 50 yards with a red dot optic.
The bullets themselves have shown no signs of degradation or damage, even after being stored in my ammunition can for an extended period. Cleaning the rifle after shooting subsonic ammunition is typically a bit dirtier than standard loads, but not excessively so. A good bore solvent made quick work of the fouling.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard 45-70 loads, the Hornady Sub-X offers a completely different shooting experience. Recoil is manageable, sound is minimized with a suppressor, and accuracy is more than adequate for its intended purpose. It has exceeded my expectations for a subsonic 45-70 load.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets
Specifications
- Caliber: .45-70 Government. This specification indicates the rifle and chambering required to use these bullets.
- Bullet Weight: 410 grain. A heavier bullet generally provides better energy transfer and penetration, especially at lower velocities.
- Bullet Type: Subsonic eXpanding (Sub-X). The Sub-X designation signifies that these bullets are designed to expand reliably at subsonic velocities.
- Projectile Caliber: .45 Caliber. This ensures proper fit and function within the .45-70 chamber and bore.
- Diameter: 0.458 in. This is the standard diameter for 45-70 bullets, ensuring a proper seal in the barrel.
- Condition: New. This guarantees that the bullets are manufactured to Hornady’s quality standards.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the intended use and performance characteristics of the Hornady Sub-X. The heavy weight and expanding design are specifically tailored for subsonic performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets perform exceptionally well in their intended role. They deliver consistent accuracy, reliable expansion, and manageable recoil. The bullets are designed to expand reliably at velocities as low as 900 feet per second.
The strengths lie in the reduced recoil and quiet operation, making them ideal for hunting with a suppressor in areas where noise is a concern. A potential weakness could be limited range due to the lower velocity. They have met my expectations and are great for close range hunting and target practice.
Design & Ergonomics
The bullets are well-constructed with a lead core and a gilding metal jacket. They are of appropriate weight and easy to handle.
The Hornady Sub-X is user-friendly and requires no special tools or techniques to load. The bullet profile ensures smooth feeding and chambering in lever-action rifles.
Durability & Maintenance
The bullets themselves are durable and resistant to damage. They are made to last for many years when stored properly.
Minimal maintenance is required, other than standard rifle cleaning after shooting. Regular cleaning will keep the rifle in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The bullets do not come with accessories, but they are compatible with standard reloading equipment for handloaders. Reloading allows for customization of the load to fine-tune performance.
The Hornady Sub-X can be paired with various optics, suppressors, and aftermarket stocks to enhance the overall shooting experience. Compatibility is wide and easy with other brands.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets
Pros
- Significantly Reduced Recoil: Makes shooting the 45-70 more manageable and allows for faster follow-up shots.
- Excellent Expansion at Subsonic Velocities: The patented Flex Tip ensures reliable expansion and terminal performance.
- Quiet Operation with a Suppressor: Ideal for hunting in noise-sensitive areas.
- Consistent Accuracy: Provides adequate accuracy for close-range hunting and target shooting.
- High-Quality Construction: Built to Hornady’s exacting standards for reliability and performance.
Cons
- Limited Range: The subsonic velocity limits the effective range compared to standard 45-70 loads.
- Price: Subsonic ammunition can be more expensive than standard loads.
Who Should Buy Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets?
These bullets are perfect for hunters who use suppressed 45-70 rifles and prioritize quiet operation and reduced recoil. They are also well-suited for shooters who want to practice with their 45-70 without the punishing recoil of standard loads.
Those seeking maximum range and penetration from their 45-70 should skip this product and opt for standard or magnum loads. A must-have accessory is a quality suppressor to maximize the noise reduction benefits.
Conclusion on Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets
The Hornady Sub-X 45 Caliber, 410 Grain, 45-70 Govt Rifle Bullets are a well-engineered and effective solution for shooters seeking a subsonic 45-70 load. The reduced recoil, quiet operation, and reliable expansion make them a compelling choice for specific applications. The Hornady Sub-X bullets justify the price point and offer a very different experience than standard 45-70 loads.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a specialized subsonic 45-70 load. If you’re ready to experience the 45-70 in a whole new way, give the Hornady Sub-X a try – you won’t be disappointed!