Finding the best scope for 45 70 govt requires understanding the unique characteristics of this legendary cartridge and how it differs from modern high-velocity rounds. The 45-70 Government, officially designated as the .45-70-405, was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873 and remains one of America’s most enduring cartridges nearly 150 years later. This big bore round pushes heavy bullets at moderate velocities, creating a rainbow trajectory that demands specific optical considerations while delivering bone-crushing energy that makes it lethal on everything from whitetails to dangerous game.
What makes the 45-70 special is its versatility across modern lever-action rifles like the Marlin 1895 and Henry Big Boy, single-shot rifles like the Ruger No. 1, and even modern bolt-action platforms. The cartridge can be loaded from mild Trapdoor Springfield pressures around 18,000 PSI up to stout modern lever gun loads exceeding 40,000 PSI, with corresponding velocity ranges from 1,300 fps to over 2,100 fps. This flexibility means a 300-grain bullet might shoot flat enough for 200-yard shots with modern loads, while traditional 405-grain bullets at lower velocities are devastating brush busters at closer ranges but drop significantly beyond 150 yards.
The recoil characteristics of 45-70 are substantial but manageable, creating a hard push rather than the sharp snap of magnum rifles. This recoil pattern is generally easier on scopes than lightweight magnums, but the heavy bullet’s momentum still demands robust scope construction. Modern 45-70 loads in lever guns can generate 35-40 foot-pounds of recoil energy, which will reveal weaknesses in poorly constructed optics quickly. Your scope needs proven durability to maintain zero through hundreds of rounds of big bore shooting.
Scope selection for 45-70 depends heavily on your intended use and rifle platform. Dangerous game hunters in heavy cover benefit from low-power variables with wide fields of view and illuminated reticles for quick target acquisition. Long-range shooters using modern loads in strong actions appreciate higher magnification and trajectory-compensating reticles to manage the cartridge’s pronounced bullet drop. Traditionalists running Trapdoor pressures prefer simple, rugged scopes that honor the cartridge’s heritage while improving practical accuracy beyond iron sight limitations. In this guide, we’ll explore five outstanding scopes specifically suited to maximize the 45-70’s capabilities across different hunting scenarios and shooting disciplines.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm | Low magnification range, Duplex reticle, Twilight Max Light Management, lightweight | [Link] |
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Vortex Diamondback HP 2-8x32mm | V-Plex reticle, 2-8x magnification, fully multi-coated, shockproof construction | [Link] |
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Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm | Ballistic Plex reticle, index matched Hi-Lume coating, positive adjustments | [Link] |
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Nikon Prostaff P3 3-9x40mm | Nikoplex reticle, multicoated optics, generous eye relief, waterproof | [Link] |
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm | Twilight Light Management, Duplex reticle, 1-inch tube, lightweight design | [Link] |
These five scopes represent excellent options for the 45-70 Government across different shooting applications and budget levels. From close-range brush guns to longer-distance precision, you’ll find a scope here that complements the big bore’s unique characteristics. Let’s examine what makes each of these optics an outstanding match for this historic American cartridge.
1) Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm (Best Scope for 45 70 Govt Overall)
The Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm represents the ideal optical solution for 45-70 rifles used in their traditional role as close to medium-range hunting tools for heavy game in challenging terrain. This compact, lightweight scope delivers legendary Leupold optical quality and reliability while providing the low magnification range that best complements the cartridge’s ballistic characteristics and typical engagement distances.
What immediately sets the VX-3i apart for 45-70 applications is its 1.5-5x magnification range, which is perfectly calibrated for the distances where this cartridge excels. At 1.5x, you get nearly red dot-like target acquisition speed with both eyes open, critical when a bear or hog appears suddenly at close range in heavy cover. The wide field of view at minimum power facilitates tracking moving game through thick brush where many 45-70 hunting scenarios unfold. Dial up to 5x and you have sufficient magnification for precise shot placement out to 200 yards, which represents the practical limit for most 45-70 loads when ethical shot placement matters.
The Twilight Max Light Management System is where Leupold’s optical engineering really shines. This sophisticated coating technology maximizes usable light transmission during dawn and dusk hours when dangerous game and trophy animals are most active. The 20mm objective might seem small compared to typical hunting scopes, but it’s perfectly sized for low magnification use and keeps the scope incredibly compact and lightweight. The result is exceptional brightness and clarity that helps you identify targets and assess shot opportunities even as shooting light fades, giving you extended hunting time when it matters most.
The Duplex reticle is elegantly simple and highly functional for 45-70 shooting. The fine crosshair center provides a precise aiming point, while the heavier outer posts remain visible against dark backgrounds and in low light conditions. This reticle doesn’t clutter your sight picture with holdover marks you don’t need at typical 45-70 ranges. The generous 4.4-inch eye relief at minimum power provides excellent safety margin against the 45-70’s substantial recoil, keeping the scope well away from your face even during hard-kicking shots.
Mechanically, the VX-3i is built to the exacting standards that made Leupold famous. The one-piece tube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing exceptional strength while keeping weight to just 9.3 ounces—remarkably light for the optical performance delivered. The scope maintains absolute waterproof and fog-proof integrity across temperature extremes from Arctic cold to tropical heat. The adjustment system offers precise 1/4 MOA clicks that track perfectly and return to zero consistently through thousands of rounds. Leupold’s legendary reliability means this scope will maintain zero through the heaviest recoiling loads and harshest field conditions.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1.5-5x |
| Objective Lens | 20mm |
| Reticle Type | Duplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 4.4 inches (at 1.5x) |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 9.3 oz |
Pros
- Perfect magnification range for traditional 45-70 hunting applications
- Exceptional low-light performance with Twilight Max Light Management System
- Extremely lightweight at 9.3 ounces preserving rifle handling characteristics
- Legendary Leupold reliability proven across decades of hard field use
- Generous eye relief providing excellent safety margin against heavy recoil
- Compact dimensions complementing traditional lever-action aesthetics
Cons
- Lower maximum magnification may limit precision at extended ranges for modern high-velocity loads
When you mount a Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm on your 45-70, you’re pairing one of America’s most legendary cartridges with optical excellence from America’s most trusted scope manufacturer. This combination has proven itself in the hands of guides facing dangerous game, hunters pursuing trophy elk in dark timber, and sportsmen who appreciate equipment that works flawlessly when everything is on the line. Whether you’re carrying a Marlin 1895 through thick brush or a Ruger No. 1 across mountain country, this scope delivers the clarity, reliability, and rapid target acquisition that makes every shot count.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Diamondback HP 2-8x32mm (Best Budget Scope for 45 70 Govt)
The Vortex Diamondback HP 2-8x32mm delivers remarkable optical performance and features at a price point that makes quality optics accessible to every 45-70 shooter. Vortex has revolutionized the scope market by providing premium features and build quality previously found only in expensive optics, and the Diamondback HP exemplifies this commitment. This scope proves you don’t need to sacrifice optical quality or durability when building a capable 45-70 hunting rifle on a reasonable budget.
What makes the Diamondback HP particularly appealing for 45-70 applications is its 2-8x magnification range that covers the sweet spot for this cartridge’s ballistic capabilities. At 2x, the wide field of view facilitates rapid target acquisition in close-quarters hunting situations where 45-70 rifles shine—thick cover, heavy brush, and surprise encounters with large game. Crank it up to 8x and you have sufficient magnification for precise aiming at distances approaching 250 yards with modern high-performance loads. This magnification versatility makes the scope equally at home on a brush gun as on a longer-range platform.
The fully multi-coated lenses use anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, maximizing light transmission and delivering bright, clear images that rival scopes costing twice as much. The 32mm objective is sized appropriately for the magnification range, gathering adequate light for effective hunting during dawn and dusk while keeping the scope compact and balanced. The V-Plex reticle features a fine crosshair center for precise aiming surrounded by heavier posts that remain visible in low light and against cluttered backgrounds—perfect for the quick, decisive shooting that 45-70 hunting often demands.
The optical performance consistently impresses shooters accustomed to more expensive glass. Color rendition is natural, contrast is excellent for separating game from backgrounds, and resolution remains sharp across the entire magnification range. The 3.3 to 4-inch eye relief provides adequate safety margin against the 45-70’s substantial recoil while accommodating shooters who wear glasses. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustment without tools, getting you ready for action rapidly when opportunities appear.
Mechanically, the Diamondback HP is built to withstand serious abuse. The one-piece tube provides the structural rigidity necessary to maintain zero through extended shooting sessions with heavy recoiling loads. The shockproof construction has proven reliable on cartridges far more punishing than 45-70, so the relatively moderate recoil of big bore rifles poses no challenge. The waterproof and fog-proof seals protect internal components across weather extremes. At 14.6 ounces, it’s heavier than ultra-lightweight scopes but remains reasonable for hunting applications.
What truly elevates the Diamondback HP is Vortex’s industry-leading VIP warranty—an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty that covers any damage or defects regardless of cause. This warranty transfers to future owners and never expires, providing complete peace of mind that your investment is protected forever. The combination of quality optics, practical features, rugged construction, and bulletproof warranty makes the Diamondback HP one of the smartest scope investments available.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-8x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | V-Plex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.3-4 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 11.6 inches |
| Weight | 14.6 oz |
Pros
- Outstanding value providing premium optical performance at budget pricing
- Ideal magnification range for typical 45-70 hunting applications
- Fully multi-coated lenses delivering bright, clear images
- Rugged construction proven reliable on heavy-recoiling rifles
- Industry-best VIP warranty with unlimited lifetime coverage
- Versatile capability from close brush to extended range
Cons
- Moderate weight at 14.6 ounces compared to ultra-lightweight hunting scopes
The Vortex Diamondback HP 2-8x32mm proves that budget-conscious shooters don’t need to compromise on optical quality for their 45-70. This scope has earned praise from countless hunters who discovered they could equip their lever gun or single-shot with genuine quality glass without emptying their wallet. Whether you’re pursuing black bear in thick timber or whitetails across farm country, the Diamondback HP delivers the clarity, durability, and magnification versatility that transforms your 45-70 into a more capable hunting tool.
Check Price on Amazon3) Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm (Best All-Purpose Scope for 45 70 Govt)
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm brings versatile magnification and practical features to 45-70 rifles used across varied hunting scenarios and shooting distances. This scope represents Burris’s commitment to providing hunters with the optical performance and reticle technology needed for ethical shot placement without the premium pricing of top-tier optics. The Fullfield E1 has earned its reputation among practical hunters who value features that enhance field effectiveness.
What sets the Fullfield E1 apart for 45-70 applications is the Ballistic Plex reticle that provides holdover references for the cartridge’s pronounced trajectory. The 45-70 drops significantly compared to modern flat-shooting cartridges, and having reference points on your reticle eliminates guesswork when taking shots beyond your zero distance. Once you’ve confirmed the holdover bars at the range with your specific load, you can make accurate shots at extended distances without fumbling with turret adjustments. The reticle remains clean enough not to clutter your sight picture while providing valuable information when needed.
The 3-9x magnification range makes this scope genuinely versatile across the full spectrum of 45-70 applications. At 3x, the field of view is wide enough for quick target acquisition in heavy cover where traditional 45-70 hunting occurs. Mid-range at 5-6x works perfectly for most hunting situations from 50 to 150 yards. Crank it to 9x and you have the magnification needed for precise shot placement at distances approaching 300 yards with hot modern loads—though few shooters take 45-70 that far, it’s nice having the capability when conditions and confidence align.
The index-matched Hi-Lume multi-coating system treats all air-to-glass surfaces with precision coatings that maximize light transmission and minimize reflections. The result is bright, clear images with excellent color fidelity and contrast that help you identify game and judge shot quality across varied lighting conditions. The 40mm objective gathers substantial light for effective dawn and dusk hunting when game movement peaks. The optical performance remains consistent across the magnification range without the edge blur or chromatic aberration that plagues cheaper scopes.
Mechanically, the Fullfield E1 emphasizes reliability and precision. The positive steel-on-steel adjustments provide crisp 1/4 MOA clicks with excellent tactile feedback that track accurately through the scope’s adjustment range. The one-piece tube construction maintains structural integrity and zero retention through the heaviest 45-70 loads. At 12.8 ounces, the scope adds reasonable weight without making rifles front-heavy. The waterproof and fog-proof construction protects internal components through harsh weather. Burris backs this scope with their Forever Warranty providing unlimited lifetime coverage.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Ballistic Plex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-3.5 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 12.1 inches |
| Weight | 12.8 oz |
Pros
- Ballistic Plex reticle providing practical holdover references for 45-70 trajectory
- Versatile magnification covering close-range to extended-distance shooting
- Excellent optical quality with Hi-Lume coatings delivering bright, clear images
- Reliable adjustments tracking accurately and maintaining zero
- Good light-gathering with 40mm objective for dawn and dusk hunting
- Forever Warranty providing unlimited lifetime coverage
Cons
- Shorter eye relief at 3.1-3.5 inches may require careful scope positioning for heavy recoil
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm offers 45-70 shooters an exceptional balance of versatility, practical features, and reliable performance at a price that makes sense for serious hunters. This scope excels when you need one optic that handles everything from close-range dangerous game to longer shots at distant trophy animals. Whether you’re hunting Roosevelt elk in dark timber or pursuing plains game in open country, the Fullfield E1 provides the magnification range and holdover capability that extends your effective range and shot placement confidence.
Check Price on Amazon4) Nikon Prostaff P3 3-9x40mm (Best Value Scope for 45 70 Govt)
The Nikon Prostaff P3 3-9x40mm delivers reliable optical performance and practical features at an entry-level price point that makes scoped 45-70 shooting accessible to everyone. Nikon has built a solid reputation for providing quality optics across all price ranges, and the Prostaff P3 represents their commitment to giving hunters essential features and dependable performance without unnecessary frills or inflated pricing. This scope proves you can equip your 45-70 with genuine optical capability without breaking the bank.
What makes the Prostaff P3 appealing for budget-conscious 45-70 shooters is how Nikon prioritized the features that actually matter in hunting situations. The 3-9x magnification range covers all practical shooting scenarios from close timber work to extended-range precision. The Nikoplex reticle is clean and functional with a fine crosshair center for precise aiming surrounded by heavier posts that remain visible in low light and against busy backgrounds. This simple reticle design works perfectly for the deliberate, careful shooting that 45-70 hunting demands.
The multicoated optics deliver acceptable image quality for the price point, providing adequate brightness and clarity for most hunting situations. While the optical performance doesn’t quite match premium scopes in challenging lighting conditions, the difference is marginal in good light when most shooting actually occurs. The 40mm objective gathers reasonable light for dawn and dusk hunting. Color rendition is natural enough for proper game identification, and resolution is adequate for precise aiming at typical 45-70 hunting distances.
The generous 3.6 to 4.8-inch eye relief is a standout feature that provides excellent safety margin against the 45-70’s substantial recoil. This forgiving eye relief accommodates shooters who wear glasses and various shooting positions without requiring precise head placement. The quick focus eyepiece allows rapid reticle adjustment for your vision. The magnification ring turns smoothly, and the adjustment turrets provide 1/4 MOA clicks that track acceptably for hunting applications where you zero the scope and generally leave adjustments alone.
The construction emphasizes reliability within budget constraints. The one-piece tube is machined for adequate strength and maintains zero reasonably well through typical hunting use. The waterproof and fog-proof seals provide basic protection against moisture in normal hunting conditions. At 14 ounces, the scope adds moderate weight that most hunters find acceptable. Nikon backs the Prostaff P3 with their limited lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects, providing reasonable assurance of quality control and company support.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Nikoplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.6-4.8 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 12.2 inches |
| Weight | 14 oz |
Pros
- Budget-friendly pricing making scoped 45-70 shooting accessible to everyone
- Generous eye relief providing excellent safety margin against heavy recoil
- Versatile magnification covering typical 45-70 hunting scenarios
- Simple, effective reticle perfect for deliberate big-bore shooting
- Reliable performance adequate for recreational hunting applications
- Limited lifetime warranty providing basic manufacturer support
Cons
- Optical quality limitations in challenging low-light conditions compared to premium glass
The Nikon Prostaff P3 3-9x40mm serves as an honest entry-level scope that gets 45-70 shooters into magnified optics without significant financial investment. This scope has helped countless hunters discover the benefits of scoped shooting on their lever guns and single-shots while performing adequately in typical whitetail and hog hunting situations. While you’ll eventually appreciate upgrading to premium optics for superior low-light performance, the Prostaff P3 provides a functional starting point that significantly improves your capability compared to iron sights alone.
Check Price on Amazon5) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm (Best Mid-Range Scope for 45 70 Govt)
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm brings legendary Leupold optical quality and reliability to 45-70 rifles at a more accessible price point than their premium VX series. This scope represents Leupold’s commitment to making their renowned glass quality available to more hunters while maintaining the features and construction standards that made their name synonymous with reliability. The VX-Freedom proves you don’t need to buy Leupold’s most expensive models to enjoy their optical excellence and bombproof dependability.
What distinguishes the VX-Freedom is Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System that maximizes usable light during the critical dawn and dusk hours when game is most active and shooting light is challenging. This sophisticated coating technology extracts maximum performance from the optical system, delivering brightness and clarity that helps you identify game and judge shot opportunities even as light fades. For 45-70 hunters pursuing elk, bear, or whitetails during prime movement hours, this low-light capability can mean the difference between taking a shot and watching opportunity disappear.
The 3-9x magnification range provides versatility for varied 45-70 applications. At 3x, the field of view facilitates quick target acquisition in heavy cover where big-bore hunting often occurs. Mid-magnification at 5-6x handles most hunting situations from 50 to 150 yards effectively. Maximum 9x magnification provides sufficient detail for careful shot placement at extended distances approaching 250 yards with modern loads. The Duplex reticle is elegantly simple and highly functional—a precise center crosshair surrounded by heavier posts that remain visible in low light without cluttering your sight picture.
The optical performance throughout the magnification range is excellent, showcasing Leupold’s expertise with lens design and coating application. The multicoat 4 lens system virtually eliminates glare while providing outstanding resolution, natural color rendition, and edge-to-edge clarity. The 40mm objective gathers substantial light for effective hunting during extended twilight periods. The generous 3.7 to 4.2-inch eye relief accommodates glasses and provides safety margin against recoil. Image quality remains consistent across the magnification range without the clarity degradation that affects lesser scopes.
The mechanical design emphasizes the rugged reliability Leupold is famous for delivering. The one-piece tube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing exceptional strength while keeping weight to just 12.2 ounces—notably lighter than most competitors. The waterproof and fog-proof construction maintains internal integrity across extreme temperature ranges. The adjustment system offers precise 1/4 MOA clicks that track perfectly. Leupold backs the VX-Freedom with their lifetime guarantee and renowned customer service that takes care of shooters quickly and professionally.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Duplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-4.2 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 12.6 inches |
| Weight | 12.2 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance with Twilight Light Management System
- Lightweight construction at 12.2 ounces preserving rifle handling
- Legendary Leupold reliability proven across decades of field use
- Outstanding optical clarity with edge-to-edge sharpness
- Versatile magnification for varied 45-70 hunting scenarios
- Lifetime guarantee backed by excellent customer service
Cons
- Mid-range pricing higher than budget options though justified by optical quality and reliability
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm represents a genuine investment in optical excellence that transforms your 45-70 into a more capable hunting tool. This scope has proven itself in the hands of serious hunters who demand equipment that performs flawlessly when opportunities appear. Whether you’re carrying a Guide Gun through Alaska’s backcountry or pursuing whitetails from a treestand, the VX-Freedom delivers the low-light capability, clarity, and absolute reliability that makes every hunting season more successful and every shot more confident.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best scope for your 45-70 Government ultimately depends on your typical shooting distances, hunting conditions, and whether you’re running traditional loads or modern high-performance ammunition. Each scope we’ve examined brings distinct advantages, from the close-range excellence of the Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x to the versatile all-purpose capability of the Burris Fullfield E1. What unites all these optics is their proven ability to withstand the 45-70’s substantial recoil while enhancing your accuracy and effective range beyond iron sight limitations.
The 45-70 Government represents one of America’s most enduring cartridges, remaining relevant and effective nearly 150 years after its military adoption. Modern loadings have extended the cartridge’s capability dramatically while maintaining the hard-hitting authority that made it legendary for taking heavy game. When you top your 45-70 rifle with quality optics matched to your shooting needs, you create a hunting system capable of performance that exceeds what most shooters imagine possible from this historic round. The right scope transforms the rainbow trajectory from a limitation into a manageable characteristic, extending your ethical shooting range significantly.
Your scope choice should reflect your predominant use case. Dangerous game hunters and brush gun enthusiasts benefit from low-power variables that prioritize rapid target acquisition and wide fields of view. Hunters pursuing game across varied terrain appreciate mid-range magnification with holdover reticles that simplify distance shooting. Long-range experimenters pushing modern loads to their limits want maximum magnification for precise aiming at distances approaching 300 yards. Budget considerations matter, but remember that quality optics represent long-term investments that serve you across decades and thousands of rounds.
Regardless of which scope you choose, proper mounting with quality rings designed for heavy recoil, careful bore sighting, and thorough range confirmation with your specific ammunition will reward you with a 45-70 setup that inspires confidence from practice sessions through your moment of truth in the field. The 45-70 Government with appropriate optics becomes more than just a nostalgic throwback—it transforms into a genuinely capable hunting tool that leverages modern technology while honoring the cartridge’s legendary heritage. Mount your chosen scope securely, confirm your zero and trajectory carefully, and prepare to discover why this big-bore cartridge continues earning devoted followers who appreciate power, accuracy, and the satisfaction of hunting with equipment that delivers on every promise.
See Also: 5 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me