The .50-90 Sharps and the .45-70 Government are iconic cartridges, steeped in history and boasting impressive stopping power. Both saw extensive use in the American West and beyond, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of firearms. However, choosing between the two requires a careful consideration of their respective strengths and weaknesses. This comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head Look
The most significant difference lies in the sheer power delivered by each cartridge. The .50-90 Sharps, with its larger bore and heavier bullet, packs a considerably more potent punch.
.50-90 Sharps:
- Caliber: .50 inch
- Case Length: Approximately 2.125 inches
- Bullet Weight: Typically ranging from 300 to 500 grains, even heavier with custom loads.
- Muzzle Energy: Substantially higher than the .45-70, delivering significantly greater knock-down power.
- Recoil: Expect significant recoil; this is not a cartridge for the faint of heart or those with limited upper body strength.
.45-70 Government:
- Caliber: .458 inch
- Case Length: Approximately 2.1 inches
- Bullet Weight: Ranges from 250 to 500 grains, offering versatility in load selection.
- Muzzle Energy: Powerful, but noticeably less than the .50-90 Sharps.
- Recoil: Still substantial, but noticeably less than the .50-90.
Intended Use and Applications
While both cartridges are capable of taking down large game, their intended uses differ slightly, reflecting their design and ballistic characteristics.
.50-90 Sharps:
- Long-Range Shooting: The .50-90 excels at longer ranges, offering greater accuracy and energy downrange than the .45-70. This makes it ideal for hunting large game at distance.
- Dangerous Game Hunting: Its tremendous stopping power makes it suitable (with proper bullet selection and shot placement) for dangerous game, though modern cartridges might offer advantages in certain situations.
- Black Powder Cartridge: While modern smokeless powder loads exist, many shooters appreciate the historical significance and tradition of using black powder with this cartridge.
.45-70 Government:
- Versatile Hunting Cartridge: The .45-70 is more versatile, capable of effectively hunting a wide range of game at closer ranges.
- Military and Police Use (Historically): Its history is intertwined with military and law enforcement applications, reflecting its reliable stopping power.
- Modern Sporting and Hunting: The .45-70 enjoys considerable popularity amongst modern hunters and sport shooters due to its readily available ammunition and manageable recoil (relative to the .50-90).
Availability of Ammunition and Firearms
Ammunition and firearms for the .45-70 are significantly more readily available and less expensive than those for the .50-90 Sharps. This is a crucial factor for many shooters. Finding a .50-90 Sharps rifle might require more dedicated searching, and reloading your own ammunition is often necessary.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
Ultimately, the best choice between the .50-90 Sharps and the .45-70 depends entirely on your specific needs and preferences. The .50-90 offers unparalleled power and long-range capability but comes with significant recoil and potentially limited ammunition availability. The .45-70 provides a potent, yet more manageable, combination of power and versatility, with readily available ammunition and firearms. Consider the type of hunting you plan to do, your experience level, and your budget before making your decision. Both cartridges represent fascinating pieces of firearms history and are capable of impressive feats, but they cater to different shooting styles and applications.
