The .45-70: A Legacy in Lead and Powder
The .45-70 Government Round
The allure of the .45-70 Government cartridge is timeless. Born on the battlefields of the past, it has transitioned gracefully into the realm of modern hunting and sport shooting. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its effectiveness, simplicity, and undeniable charm. Among the various rifles chambered for this venerable round, the CVA single shot rifles offer a compelling combination of affordability, ruggedness, and the potential for impressive accuracy. This article delves into a comprehensive examination of the CVA .45-70 single shot rifle, providing a detailed analysis of its features, performance, and suitability for various shooting applications.
The .45-70 Government round, officially known as the .45-70-405 (representing the caliber, black powder charge, and bullet weight), emerged from the U.S. Army’s need for a more potent cartridge than the .50-70. It quickly became the standard issue cartridge for the Springfield Model rifles, playing a pivotal role in the late nineteenth century. The cartridge, loaded with a heavy bullet and a generous charge of black powder, delivered devastating impact at short to medium ranges. Soldiers and hunters alike quickly realized its effectiveness against large game and enemy combatants.
Over time, the .45-70 demonstrated its versatility. While originally designed for military use, it rapidly gained favor among hunters targeting everything from deer and elk to even larger game like bear and bison. Its ability to penetrate thick hides and deliver significant stopping power made it a preferred choice for dangerous game. In addition to hunting, the cartridge also became a staple in long-range target shooting, demonstrating remarkable accuracy when paired with skilled marksmen and quality rifles. Its continued use in silhouette shooting and Cowboy Action Shooting further solidifies its place in the history of firearms.
The modern iteration of the .45-70 cartridge has benefited from advancements in ammunition technology. While black powder loads remain popular for their historical authenticity, smokeless powder loads offer increased velocity, flatter trajectories, and enhanced performance at longer ranges. The versatility of the round is further bolstered by the wide array of bullet weights and designs available, allowing shooters to tailor their ammunition to specific hunting scenarios or shooting preferences. The .45-70’s continued relevance testifies to its enduring effectiveness and the appeal of a time-honored cartridge.
Exploring the CVA Single Shot Rifle Architecture
Features & Specifications
The CVA single shot rifle is a testament to the principle of functional simplicity. It operates on a basic break-action design, meaning that the barrel pivots open, allowing the shooter to load a single cartridge directly into the chamber. This design is inherently robust and reliable, as it has fewer moving parts than more complex actions. The rifle is constructed with an emphasis on practicality, using materials that balance cost-effectiveness with durability.
The models are available in several different configurations, catering to various shooting preferences. Barrel lengths often range from shorter, maneuverable barrels suited for close-range hunting, to longer barrels optimized for long-range accuracy. The twist rate of the rifling is also carefully considered. The twist rate is a critical factor in bullet stabilization and accuracy. The twist rate influences the type of bullet weight that will perform best, making it crucial for achieving the best ballistic performance.
The stock material is typically constructed from wood or synthetic composites. Wood stocks offer a classic aesthetic and can be found in various finishes. Synthetic stocks, often made of a robust polymer, offer exceptional weather resistance and durability, making them a good choice for all-weather hunting. The choice between the two comes down to individual preferences and how much emphasis is placed on the classic style of a rifle, and the functionality of the synthetic materials.
The sighting systems available with the rifle are usually simple, and practical. They typically come with adjustable iron sights, allowing for basic aiming at short to medium ranges. The receiver of the rifle is often drilled and tapped for scope mounting. This allows shooters to easily mount a scope for enhanced accuracy at extended distances. The presence of a scope-ready receiver demonstrates that CVA has understood the requirements of today’s modern shooters.
The trigger mechanisms are designed for practical use, without the complexity of more advanced match-grade triggers. The trigger pull is normally straightforward, offering a clean break. The trigger pull is important as this greatly influences the shooter’s ability to hit their target.
In terms of weight and overall length, the rifles are generally designed to be manageable in the field. The weight provides a balance between portability and stability, helping to absorb recoil during shooting. The overall length is normally optimized for a comfortable shooting experience. The rifle incorporates essential safety features, such as a manual safety and a hammer-blocking mechanism, to minimize the risk of accidental discharge.
Quality and Build
The overall build quality of the CVA single shot rifle is typically focused on delivering a reliable and functional firearm at a price point that is accessible to most shooters. The fit and finish are generally good, with components that integrate seamlessly.
The barrels are often made of steel, sometimes with blued finishes that provide some protection against corrosion. Stainless steel barrels are often available as an option, enhancing resistance to rust. The choice of barrel material and finish plays a role in the rifle’s longevity and its ability to withstand the rigors of field use.
The stock material is selected for its durability and resistance to environmental conditions. Wood stocks are often crafted from hardwoods, while synthetic stocks use impact-resistant polymers. The choice of material affects the rifle’s appearance, feel, and weather resistance.
The action mechanism is a key element in the construction, and usually performs reliably. The break-action design is well-known for its durability. This translates into minimal maintenance and consistent performance. The action is built to withstand repeated use and the pressure generated by the .45-70 cartridge.
User reviews of the rifle often highlight its robustness. Most users have generally positive experiences in terms of reliability. This contributes to the overall value proposition of the rifle. The rifle can typically withstand a reasonable amount of wear and tear, making it a suitable choice for hunters and shooters.
Achieving Accuracy and Precision in Testing
Test Methodology
Before discussing accuracy results, understanding the testing methodology is important. When performing shooting tests, various factors are taken into account. These often include the use of a shooting rest, a stable platform that minimizes shooter-induced error. The range at which targets are placed varies depending on the application. Testing typically involves shooting at distances, such as 50, 100, or even 200 yards. The choice of ammunition also plays a critical role. Different bullet weights, designs, and manufacturers can significantly influence a rifle’s grouping performance. The average group size at different distances provides insight into the rifle’s accuracy potential. It also helps in evaluating its performance in the field.
Accuracy Results
The .45-70 cartridge, when fired from a well-made rifle, is capable of achieving remarkable accuracy. The heavy bullets maintain a decent trajectory at extended ranges. The performance often exceeds expectations, particularly when considering the rifle’s affordability. However, achieving optimal accuracy with the CVA single shot rifle requires a good understanding of the cartridge, proper shooting techniques, and sometimes, a degree of experimentation with different loads.
Recoil & Handling
The recoil of the .45-70 is a factor that every shooter must consider. The heavy bullet and the large powder charge create a significant amount of recoil. It is often substantial but manageable. The design of the stock contributes to how recoil is felt. The ergonomics of the rifle play an important role. A well-designed stock can effectively distribute recoil across the shoulder and reduce the impact felt by the shooter.
The ease of handling, loading, and unloading the rifle is another critical aspect. The break-action design simplifies the loading process. The cartridge is directly inserted into the chamber. This ensures a safe and simple system. The rifle is generally easy to operate.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of the CVA Single Shot Rifle
Pros
The CVA single shot rifle’s primary advantage lies in its affordability. The rifle is significantly cheaper than many other rifles chambered in .45-70. The low price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters, hunters, and those looking to enter the world of .45-70 shooting without making a substantial investment.
The simplicity and reliability of the break-action design are significant benefits. This action has fewer moving parts, which leads to reduced chances of mechanical failure. The rifle is simple to maintain and to clean, making it a practical choice for those who prefer a user-friendly firearm.
With the right ammunition and technique, the rifle can deliver acceptable accuracy. The potential for good accuracy is usually good enough for hunting at reasonable distances. It is also capable of achieving solid results in informal target shooting.
The rifle is well-suited for hunting a variety of game species. The power of the .45-70 round makes it a good choice for large game animals. The rugged design can withstand harsh field conditions.
The simple design translates to easy maintenance, which enhances the rifle’s longevity. Minimal moving parts reduce the need for frequent repairs or adjustments.
The rifle offers significant flexibility, and has a good selection of aftermarket accessories. Shooters can choose from a wide range of scopes. The rifles also have options for more comfortable stocks.
Cons
However, the rifle does have some drawbacks. The single-shot action means that the shooter must reload after each shot. Reloading takes more time compared to repeating actions. This can be a disadvantage, particularly in scenarios where multiple shots are needed quickly.
The recoil of the .45-70 can be significant. Shooters must learn how to manage the recoil. This means that shooting is less enjoyable and more physically challenging.
The effective range is often limited compared to modern cartridges. While accurate at medium ranges, the .45-70 loses velocity over distance.
The trigger pull might not be perfect out of the box. Some shooters may find the trigger pull a bit heavy or gritty. This can affect accuracy.
Contrasting the CVA with Similar Rifle Choices
Comparing the CVA .45-70 single shot rifle to other rifles is important. The prices of the rifles will vary. The CVA often holds a significant price advantage compared to rifles from well-known manufacturers.
Other rifles chambered in .45-70 have more modern features. These rifles may have more advanced optics mounting systems, and more advanced designs. But those features come at a cost.
Single-shot rifles from other manufacturers, such as the Thompson/Center or the H&R, may offer similar performance. However, the features, build quality, and price points vary. The choice depends on the shooter’s requirements, preferences, and budget.
The shooter has to consider the intended use. If the shooter needs a robust, simple rifle, the CVA is a great choice. If the shooter wants a highly accurate rifle for long-range shooting, they need to consider a rifle with a more sophisticated action, or better quality components.
Analyzing User Feedback and Insights
Online reviews often provide a detailed view of what people feel about the CVA single shot rifles. Positive feedback usually centers around the rifle’s affordability. Shooters often comment on the rifle’s functionality, and the potential to deliver the type of performance that is normally associated with more expensive rifles. Hunters also praise the rifle’s power and suitability for taking down various game animals.
Some negative feedback often covers the trigger pull quality. Some shooters have noted the weight of the trigger, which can affect accuracy. Other comments refer to recoil, which takes some time to get used to.
Reaching a Conclusion
The CVA single shot rifle in .45-70 provides a compelling option for shooters. It provides a great combination of affordability, functionality, and accuracy. This makes it a valuable asset for many shooters.
The strengths of this rifle are its ease of use, the simple action and the power of the .45-70 cartridge. It is suitable for a variety of uses including hunting at medium ranges. The rifle is a good choice for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option.
The target audience is broad, and encompasses the beginner, and experienced hunters alike. Its simple design makes it an appealing choice for those who want a hassle-free shooting experience. Experienced hunters will enjoy the power and versatility of the .45-70 cartridge.
The CVA .45-70 single shot rifle is a worthy investment. It provides a good value for its price. It is recommended for anyone looking for a functional rifle.
Where to Buy
You can find these rifles at most major sporting goods retailers, including Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and online at MidwayUSA and Brownells. Always be sure to check local laws and regulations before purchasing.
