Today, you will find the best 45-70 scopes. Over the last years, the popularity of the 45-70 has increased. More hunters are now switching to this cartridge for their hunting needs. This is due to the high stopping power the cartridge provides.
Additionally, this cartridge has a comparatively low velocity which makes it acceptable for hunting a wide range of both medium and large-sized games.
What Scope is Best for a 45-70?
.45-70 Government proper use requires dedicated scope that will enhance its effectiveness. The cartridge is widely used in big game hunting in brush or thick timber. In these areas range is normally short and so low-power scopes are more suitable.
A low power scope allows faster target acquisition. The best 45-70 scopes have enough magnification to bring targets at medium-range distances of up to 500 yards. This is very resourceful for hunters as it expands the hunting possibilities.
The other attribute of great scope for 45-70 Govt. is a low profile. The best 45-70 scopes feature a smaller objective lens. As a result, they are mounted very low on the firearm which is very helpful to the shooter as he/she can maintain a consistent position on the stock when taking multiple shots.
A low profile makes a scope light so you need to worry about the scope weighing on your rifle which might reduce accuracy. The optical clarity is paramount in scope for 45-70 Government.
Hunting in heavy timber requires a scope with more visibility. Pay attention to the glass used to make the lenses and look for scopes with fully multi-coated optics. Superb glass and lens coatings allow maximum light transmission resulting in bright and crisp images.
Lastly, a scope for 45-70 should have a rock-solid construction. The cartridge produces recoil and can damage a flimsy scope. The best 45-70 scopes should be shockproof to put up with vibrations from the recoil.
The tube should be constructed of high-quality materials, purged with dry gases and completely sealed to ensure weather-tight performance.
8 Best 45-70 Scopes for Henry .45-70 Lever-Action Rifle
Mounting a good scope on your 45-70 rifle will provide plenty of accuracy, especially when hunting at long distances. But there are so many scopes options on the market today and finding the right model can be a daunting process.
If you are having a difficult time finding the right scope for your 45-70 rifle, we have done the weightlifting for you and compiled a list of the best 45-70 scopes for lever-action rifles. Let’s take a look:
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm is one of the best 45-70 scopes and hosts an array of incredible features that give the shooter the upper hand in any shooting situation. It is incredibly versatile and ideal for hunting and shooting at both close and medium ranges.
This scope features a second focal plane reticle which offers highly functional and detailed hold points, yet remains uncluttered for optimal viewing. Even better, the reticle is illuminated and has 10 brightness settings for use in different lighting conditions.
Furthermore, the scope boasts a fiber optic rotation indicator that helps you keep track of your turrets easily. Another thing that makes this rifle scope stand out is the exceptional optical performance it provides.
It has extra-low dispersion glass for increasing color and fidelity. It also boasts XR fully multi-coated lenses that enhance the transmission of light for bright, crisp and sharp image views.
In terms of construction, the scope is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which provides a durable platform. Further, it has an Armortek coating that protects the exterior optics from scratches and dirt. Combining the low-profile and quality optics optimizes visual performance for an extraordinary shooting experience.
High-quality construction is the other positive attribute that cements Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 name among the best 45-70 scopes. It is also fully waterproof and fog-free to provide reliable performance in all weather conditions. Other notable features included are RZR zero stop, laser-etched turrets and adjustable parallax.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Second focal plane reticle
- 30mm tube size
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Armortek lens coating
- Hard anodized finish
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Adjustable parallax
- Illuminated reticles augment performance in any lighting condition
- Capped turrets prevent accidental dials after zeroing in the scope
- Fiber optic rotation indicator
- Streamlined design for optimal visual performance
- The reticle has detailed hold points for utmost accuracy
- Easy to zero
- Tracks incredibly well
Cons
- Heavier
- Non-locking illumination ring
2) Athlon Optics Midas BTR 1-6 x 24 mm Rifle Scope
The Midas BTR 1-6 x 24 mm Rifle Scope is a top contender among the best 45-70 scopes. It is equipped with a variable magnification for short to medium-range hunting and shooting.
It also has a high-precision erector system which provides highly accurate power settings and the smoothest magnification change. Across all the magnification powers, the scope delivers the brightest and clearest images.
This rifle scope has 120 MOA total windage and elevation adjustment. It also features a glass-etched reticle that is illuminated for accurate aiming in poor light settings.
Moreover, it boasts generous eye relief for comfortable glassing, a wide field of view for easy target scanning and HD glass which provides better light transmission for brighter and sharper images.
This Athlon rifle scope is made to offer unmatched durability. It has a 30mm 1-piece tube that is heat-treated for greater strength over multi-piece tubes. It is built from aircraft-quality aluminum which gives it exceptional strength and superior mechanical integrity. It is also fully waterproof and fog-free to shield the optics in the harshest weather conditions.
A state-of-the-art optical system, low-profile turrets for optimal visual performance, quick target acquisition, error-free adjustments and easy zeroing after sighting are some of the highlights that make Midas BTR 1-6×24 one of the best 45-70 scopes.
Features
- High-precision erector system
- 1-6x variable magnification
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Heat-treated 1-piece 30mm tube
- Advanced fully multi-coated optics
- Glass-etched reticle
- Robust aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 120 MOA total windage and elevation adjustment
Pros
- Capped turrets to prevent accidental dials after zeroing
- Easy to zero
- XPL lens coating for optimal light transmission
- Lightweight and portable
- Generous eye relief
- All-round hunting riflescope
- HD glass delivers sharp and bright images
- Easy zeroing through precision zero-stop system
Cons
- High cost
- Small throw lever for adjusting the power
3) NightForce ATACR 4-16x50mm ZeroStop Rifle Scope
NightForce makes high-quality rifle scopes and this is evident with the ATACR 4-16x50mm ZeroStop Rifle Scope. It is tough, dependable and packed with tons of features that deliver in every critical situation. As one of the best 45-70 scopes, this riflescope delivers extraordinary performance distinguishing a serious hunter from an ordinary one.
Outstanding low-light performance is one of the highlights that makes the ATACR 4-16×50 rifle scope one of the best 45-70 scopes. The riflescope incorporates multi-coated ED glass to deliver sharp and crisp images in any light. This glass has incredible color contrast and high resolution for clear and detailed images.
First, the scope has an adjustable magnification that spans from 4x to 16x. This makes it ideal for use at both close and long ranges. To complement the high zoom, the scope features a 50mm objective lens which provides a large field of view and crisp images at every magnification setting. It also comes with an integrated throw lever for easy magnification adjustment.
This rifle scope has a high-speed ZeroStop which ensures an instant return to zero and a Digillum reticle illumination for precision aiming in low-light settings. It also boasts a fast diopter adjustment and a parallax adjustment from 45 yards to infinity for greater accuracy at long range.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- 4-16x magnification
- Hi-Speed ZeroStop
- Xtreme speed thread
- 5-inch eye relief
- Large 50mm objective lens
- Di Gillum reticle illumination
- 34 mm tube allows maximum elevation adjustment
- Recoil-proof construction offers resilience when used with recoiling rifles
- Low profile for optimal visual performance
Pros
- Illuminated reticle to enhance performance in low light
- Long-range capability
- Adjustable parallax
- Magnification markings are highly visible
- Tough, dependable and repeatable
- Brilliant performance
- Unbeatable versatility
- Capped windage adjustment to prevent accidental dials in the field
Cons
- Expensive
4) NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm .250 MOA Rifle Scope
If you are looking to take your hunting skills to a whole new level, the NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm riflescope suits you. It is a high-end riflescope designed with nearly every feature you need for hunting. The compact design offers a practical shooting solution to 45-70 rifles earning SHV 3-10×42 a place among the best 45-70 scopes.
Featuring a variable magnification from 3x to 10x, this scope is perfect for hunting different games in different environments at both close and long ranges. It features a large 42mm objective lens and fully multi-coated optics which deliver brighter and more vivid image views even in poor light conditions.
Another remarkable thing about the scope is the ease of use. First, it is very light for convenient carrying in the field. It also has a fast focus for easy and quick reticle focusing and generous eye relief for comfortable observation with or without eyeglasses. Further, it features a side parallax adjustment for greater accuracy when shooting at longer ranges.
In terms of construction, it is made of aluminum which optimizes its strength and rigidity. Above all, the scope is waterproof and fogproof to offer dependable performance even under harsh weather conditions. Relentless performance and resilience further cement the SHV 3-10×42 scope’s name among the best 45-70 scopes for big game hunting.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Robust aluminum construction
- Capped turrets with .25 MOA adjustments
- Side parallax adjustment
- 30mm main tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Unbeatable precision
- State-of-the-art optical systems deliver crisp images
- Illuminated reticle enhances low-light performance
Pros
- Weather-resistant
- Generous eye relief
- Suitable for a wide range of applications
- Smooth magnification changes
- Caps to prevent accidental adjustments in the field
- A perfect magnification range for hunters
- Tough and durable construction
Cons
- Costly
5) Primary Arms 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope
Next up is the Primary Arms 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope. This scope is equipped with an advanced combined sighting system reticle which provides bullet drop compensation and wind holds in addition to range estimation. The reticle is housed on the second focal plane and it is illuminated for quick and easy target acquisition in low light conditions.
This rifle scope is built to offer unmatched durability. It is crafted from high-strength aluminum which optimizes its strength and rigidity. It is also shockproof to withstand rough handling, waterproof for use in all weather conditions, and purged with nitrogen to mitigate internal fogging.
Furthermore, it brings to the table generous eye relief which allows for comfortable glassing with and without eyeglasses. It also has a fast-focus eyepiece for smooth and rapid reticle focusing and fully multi-coated optics which maximize the transmission of light for bright and clear image views.
Features
- 1-6x variable magnification
- Waterproof, fog-resistant and shockproof
- 30mm main tube
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Robust aluminum housing
Pros
- Reticle illumination
- Capped turrets
- Very durable finish
- Holds zero well
Cons
- Not bright enough
6) Vortex Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
If you are on a budget, the Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is your ideal option. It works well with all straight-walled cartridges regardless of the activity you are engaged in.
The scope features a variable 3-9x magnification which is ideal for hunting in different ranges. You can use the 3x when hunting game at close quarters or in thickly forested environments then move up to 9x for long-range targets in large and open plains.
Further, the scope has a 50mm objective lens which guarantees bright images at every magnification. This rifle scope is built ready for hunting. It is durably made from aircraft-grade aluminum so you will get many years of use.
Better yet, it is fully waterproof and fogproof for use in all weather conditions, and shockproof to stand up to any punishment you subject it to. It also features an anodized finish to prevent rust and camouflage your position when hunting under broad daylight.
Above all, the scope features fully multi-coated lenses which enhance light transmission and minimize light loss through reflection to provide brilliantly clear image views even in low light conditions such as dawn and dusk.
Features
- Anodized finish
- Water-resistant and fog-proof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Second focal plane straight-wall BDC reticle
- 50mm objective lens
- Variable 3-9x magnification
- SD optical system
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight construction
- Cost-effective
- Easy to use
Cons
- No reticle illumination
7) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
As one of the best 45-70 scopes, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm provides a ton of high-quality and improved features at a remarkably affordable cost. If you are a beginner, you should consider this scope.
Featuring a Twilight Light Management System, this scope delivers unmatched image brightness and clarity in any lighting condition. Furthermore, it is equipped with a Custom Dial System which makes the scope easy to install and even simpler to use. It is also equipped with 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for precision windage and elevation.
Moreover, the scope is made ready for rugged outdoor use. It is 100% waterproof, fogproof and shockproof. Additionally, it has a robust aircraft-grade aluminum body that stands up to anything nature throws at it for greater durability. Other impressive features included are scratch-resistant lenses, an ultralight design and a generous eye relief.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Twilight Light Management System
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- 1/4 MOA finger click windage and elevation adjustments
- 3x-9x magnification range
- 1-inch main tube
- Duplex reticle
Pros
- Custom Dial System
- Ultralight and simple to use
- Generous eye relief
- Great value for the price
Cons
- No reticle illumination
8) Hawke Sports Optics Airmax 3-9×40 AO Rifle Scope
Another best 45-80 scope on our list is the Airmax 3-9×40 AO Rifle Scope from Hawke Sports Optics. This scope is engineered to increase your shooting accuracy both on the range and hunting field.
The scope features a duplex-ranging article that is based on a mil-dot system. This reticle provides numerous aiming points on all axes for greater accuracy. It is also etched on the glass so no fading or shift over time. Besides that, the scope has an adjustable parallax from 7.5 yards to infinity and low-profiled capped turrets to prevent accidental adjustments.
When it comes to construction, the scope has an ultralight yet durable aluminum alloy housing. It has a threaded objective and ocular for mounting accessories such as sunshades. It is also filled with nitrogen to provide waterproof and fog-proof performance.
Features
- Side parallax adjustment
- Glass-etched second focal plane reticle
- 3-9x magnification range
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Fast focus collar
- 1-inch single-piece main tube
- Waterproof and fogproof
Pros
- Low-profile capped turrets
- Lightweight and portable
- Cost-effective
- Large field of view
Cons
- Shorter lifespan on powerful rifles
Related Posts
- Best Riflescopes for 6.5 Creedmoor
- Best Vortex Scopes for 300 Win Mag
- Best Prism Scopes
- Best Mountain Hunting Scope
- Best Riflescopes for Deer Hunting
Best 45-70 Scopes Buying Guide & FAQs
Criteria for Choosing the Best 45-70 Scopes
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the best 45-70 scopes.
Durability
The 45-70 cartridge delivers heavy recoil. Therefore, it is important to select a scope that is durable and sturdy enough to stand up to the heavy recoil. If the scope is not durable, it will be hard for it to maintain zero after a few shots.
Look for a scope that is crafted with high-quality materials preferably aluminum, magnesium, or better. Also ensure that you pick a scope that is O-ring sealed to lock out moisture, dirt and dust. A good scope should also be purged with a neutral gas like argon or nitrogen.
Target Acquisition
When using the 45-70 rifle, target acquisition speed is key. Different things affect target acquisition among them reticle design, a large field of view, light transmission and reticle illumination.
A scope with a simple reticle design increases target acquisition speed. Additionally, a scope with reticle illumination enhances accuracy in low-light settings while a wide field of view contributes to easy target identification.
Magnification
High magnification isn’t necessary for a 45-70 scope. This is because the cartridge is effective at about 200 yards. When shopping for a variable power 45-70 scope, look for one that has a maximum magnification of not more than 9x.
This will be more than sufficient for hunting at close and medium ranges. If you prefer a fixed power scope, a model with not more than 4x is ideal.
Eye Relief
The 45-70 cartridge produces a heavy recoil. Therefore, you must select a scope that offers ample eye relief. With generous eye relief, you will be able to glass without worrying about your eye getting hit by the recoiling rifle. Look for a scope that has at least 3.5 inches of eye relief.
Tube Diameter
Another thing to consider is the scope’s tube diameter. Scopes with large tube diameters tend to weigh more than their smaller counterparts. However, they have the advantage of offering more room for reticle movement as well as windage and elevation adjustment. The best 45-70 scopes have either a 30mm tube or a 1-inch main tube.
Read: Best Nightforce Scopes for Hunting
Best 45-70 Scopes FAQs
Q: What is The Effective Range of a 45-70?
A 45-70 cartridge has a muzzle velocity of 1,350 fps and a 405-grain bullet has an effective range of around 200 yards. Beyond that, the drop will drop approximately 75 inches before it reaches the 300-yard mark. This is too much drop to make a clean, safe and ethical shot.
Q: How Accurate is the 45-70?
Multiple factors affect the accuracy of every cartridge, not just the 45-70. Such factors are the rifle quality, shooter skills as well as environmental conditions. With all these factors in mind, this cartridge offers great accuracy out to 200 yards.
Q: What Game Can I Hunt with the 45-70?
The 45-70 is ideal for hunting any big game including elk, moose and bear. You can also use it for hunting small and medium-sized game such as hogs, varmints and whitetail deer.
Conclusion
The 45-70 is fun to hunt with but proper use requires a dedicated scope. Good rifle scope for 45-70 helps improve accuracy, long-range capability and overall effectiveness of your rifle.
Since not all scopes are created equal, we narrowed your search to riflescopes that will help unleash the full potential of the Henry .45-70 Lever-Action Rifle.
We hope that you have found this detailed post enlightening and useful. All the scopes listed above are of high quality, dependable and excellent partners to any 45-70 rifles.