Today, we explore the best scopes for 45-70 Government. The 45-70 Government is a formidable close-range hunting cartridge known for its unbeatable accuracy and stopping power. For excellent results when using this cartridge, a high-quality rifle scope is imperative.
Finding a scope that is tailored for use with a specific type of caliber is no mean feat. The market is saturated with rifle scopes from so many different brands for you to choose from. If you are on the hunt for the best scope for 45-70, read on, as we are here to help.
The .45-70 is a classic and multifunctional round that is well known for its potent punch. It delivers unmatched power across vast ranges and having a scope to complement its power is essential to ensuring that you harness its full potential.
From dense brush to open fields, the versatility of the 45-70 round can only be matched by the accuracy of a rifle scope that graces its platform. We have scoured the market and put together a roundup of the best-performing scopes that pair well with this cartridge.
Built with the most advanced technology and high-end features, these rifle scopes offer unmatched clarity, robustness and reliability to become a reliable companion in your quest for success.
So, whether you are an avid hunter looking to take your hunting a notch higher or a shooter who frequents the range to hone your skills, here are the best scopes for 45-70 suitable for you. Let’s dive right in.
8 Best Scopes for 45-70
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is an efficient rifle scope to mount on your .45-70. Harboring impressive features, it ranks high among the best scopes for 45-70. This mid-powered rifle scope is hard to beat in terms of innovative features and quality. The other notable feature to admire in the scope is the crisp reticle that allows accurate shot placement. It is built with the legendary Leupold ruggedness. This guarantees reliable performance even in the most challenging fields. On top of the rock-solid make, the scope is fully protected from weather elements including moisture, dust and fog. It also has scratch-resistant lenses to offer extra protection. The optical performance of the scope is also stunning. The Twilight Light Management System enhances target visibility in low light and eliminates glare in bright light. Other than that, this rifle scope is built light for portability and convenience. It also has a generous eye relief to enable comfortable and safe shooting. Features
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2) Vortex Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
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In the realm of optics, Vortex is a brand that is well known for the quality of optics it manufactures. This reputation is clear with the Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope which comes with all the basic features you need to shoot straight-wall cartridges including the .45-70 Government. The scope has a massive 50mm objective lens which is responsible for enhancing low light performance. On top of that, the optics are fully multi-coated to ensure high levels of transmission. In terms of construction, the scope has a 1-inch body tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. The solid construction coupled with waterproof, fogproof and dustproof protection ensures that this rifle scope is safe to use in adverse weather conditions and a broad range of temperatures. To the top of everything else, the Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope boasts a second focal plane BDC reticle optimized for straight-wall hunting. This highly precise rifle scope is one of the best scopes for 45-70 Government. Mount this rifle scope and expect the best shooting performance in the hunting arena. Features
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3) Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 3-9x40mm rifle scope is one of the best scopes for 45-70 for those on a tight budget. Designed as a multi-functional close and mid-range optic, this rifle scope delivers reliable performance in different shooting scenarios. It excels in all hunting environments from dusk to dawn. This is thanks to the 40mm objective lens which draws in as much light as possible inside. Further, the optics feature 11 layers of anti-reflective coatings to ensure optimal light transmission. Not only is the optical performance of this rifle scope superb, but also the construction quality. It has a durable and lightweight aluminum body which is anodized against scratches. Over and above that, the low-profile turrets are capped to help guard against accidental adjustments and to provide extra protection from bumps. Furthermore, this rifle scope gas a fast focus collar that is essential for ensuring easy reticle focusing. It also boasts a generous eye relief of 3.5” for use even with high recoiling calibers. Dependability, versatility and unrivaled precision across magnification range augment this scope’s stellar performance among the best scopes for 45-70. Features
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4) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-20 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Designed for performance and durability, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-20 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is the go-to scope for hunters looking to take their hunting skills a notch higher. It is packed with cutting-edge features to meet the needs of every modern hunter out there. It’s loaded with quality features to improve your rifle’s accuracy and overall performance. The selling point of this optic is the aiming and optical system. It employs a dual illuminated mil-dot reticle which enables rapid target acquisition. Furthermore, the notable 40mm objective lens works in tandem with the multi-layer coated lenses to provide superior image clarity. Durability is another attribute that makes this rifle scope ideal for the .450 Bushmaster. It has a robust 1-inch main tube which is coated with a Type III hard anodized finish. Over and above that, the scope is waterproof and submersible to 10’ for use in all weather conditions. Features
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5) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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If you are in the market for a competitively priced scope that performs well in most lighting conditions, the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope suits you. It is easy to use and ideal for pursuing games at close to medium ranges. Across the 3-9x magnification range, the scope provides a significantly spacious field of view to help you find and acquire your subjects without breaking a sweat. It also maintains a long eye relief which is essential for comfortable glassing. Furthermore, Bushnell designed this rifle scope to be usable in all kinds of weather conditions. It has shock-resistant aluminum housing which is rigid enough to weather any abuse. Moreover, the nitrogen-filled optical tube is sealed at both ends to lock out moisture and dust. Complementing the solid construction is the multi-coated optics which enhance image brightness and clarity in all light settings. This rifle scope also brings to the table an illuminated CF 500 reticle with ballistic drop compensation indicators on the lower vertical axis. Features
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6) SIG SAUER Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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SIG SAUER Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is another premium quality rifle scope that is optimized for hunting. Pairing it with your .45-70 Government will not just get you on targets quickly, but also boost your overall hunting confidence. The scope has 3x optical zoom offered in the rear focal plane with several reticle options. This makes it ideal for hunting a wide range of game in virtually all environments. Besides, the European-style eyepiece included enables smooth, fast and precise reticle adjustment from any shooting position. For all-weather use, this rifle scope features dependable waterproof and fogproof protection. On top of that, it is built using durable materials to withstand the rough handling that comes with hunting. The other noteworthy features this rifle scope is outfitted with include low dispersion glass, a 90 MOA adjustment range and a non-reflective matte finish. Features
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7) Leapers UTG Bug Buster 3-9x32mm Rifle Scope
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Next in our list of the best scope for 45-70 we have the Leapers UTG Bug Buster 3-9x32mm Rifle Scope. This rifle scope is built with ease of use in mind, so it is appropriate for hunters of all levels. It is built in a 1-inch tube made from aluminum. The quality yet lightweight construction guarantees easy maneuverability in the field without fatigue. Furthermore, the tube is completely sealed and filled with nitrogen gas to be fully waterproof and fogproof. Optically, this rifle scope has emerald lens coatings which ensure maximum light transmission and clarity. Its aiming point is a classic and proven mil-dot range estimating reticle that is illuminated to enable precision aiming in low light. Other than that, this rifle scope has an adjustable objective for range estimation and parallax correction. Features
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8) ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x30mm Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope
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Lastly, we have the ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x30mm Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope. This rifle scope has dual day and night functionality so you can use it at any time in any lighting condition. The scope is designed with the new revolutionary ATN Obsidian LT core. It is optimized for low power consumption so you don’t have to worry about the battery failing in the middle of use. This design also gives the scope a compact and ergonomic form factor for portability and convenience. For extra value, this night and day hunting rifle scope has a shot zero function for straightforward sight in. Besides, the classic ergonomic makes it easy to mount with standard 30mm rings. It also boasts a recoil-activated video function and easy to navigate controls for added convenience. Features
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How to Choose the Best Scopes for 45-70
Whether you are looking to purchase a 45-70 scope for the first time or not, here is a guide on the key things to keep in mind to find the right model for your needs.
Usage
First and foremost, take into consideration the application you plan to use the scope for. Is it for hunting in the fields, target shooting, or both.
When you are clear about the activity you will use the scope for, it becomes much easier to know which model to get.
Construction Quality
The recoil that the .45-70 cartridge scatters calls for a scope that is built to be duty-worthy. Take a look at the quality of construction and opt for a scope that uses the most hard-wearing materials. Factors such as shockproof and weatherproof design are also important to maximize overall durability.
Read: Best Scopes for 450 Bushmaster
Size and Weight
Size and weight play a big role in determining the ease of use of a scope. The best scopes for 45-70 are built light for portability and convenience.
It is also important for the scope to have a small, ergonomic form factor which makes it easy to mount and convenient to maneuver with in dense forests.
Eye Relief
Considering the recoil of the .45-70 scatters, a long eye relief distance is paramount to reduce the risk of scope-related injuries.
Whether you wear eyeglasses or not when hunting or shooting, go for a scope that has a generous eye relief of at least 3.5 inches.
Reticle System
The other important thing to consider is the reticle system the scope uses. For the best scopes for 45-70, we recommend an easy-to-use reticle that is uncluttered and accurate.
Duplex, Bullet Drop Compensating and Mil-Dot are some of the most common reticle types suitable for this cartridge.
Read: Best Scopes for Savage 220
Best Scopes of 45-70 FAQs
Q: What Scope Size is Ideal for 45-70?
The ideal scope size for 45-70 depends on the distance you will shooting and your preference. For close and mid-range shooting where this round excels, a scope with a 3-9x zoom range is sufficient.
Q: Are Illuminated Reticles Essential for a .45-70 Scope?
While an illuminated reticle is not a must-have for a 45-70 scope, it is essential if you primarily intend to use the scope in low-light settings where clear contrast between the target and the aiming point is vital.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best scopes for 45-70 doesn’t always have to be a taxing and unpleasant task. When you know the features that you need the scope to have, you will have an easy time making your selection. Whichever scope you choose to get, we are hopeful that our article has been of great help.
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