The .45-70 Government is a rifle cartridge developed in 1873 for the United States Army. It was originally designed for use in the Springfield Model 1873 rifle and features a .45-inch bullet diameter with a case length of 2.1 inches. The cartridge was intended for hunting large game and military applications, providing significant stopping power. Over the years, the .45-70 Government has gained popularity among hunters and sport shooters. Its versatility allows it to be used in various firearms, including lever-action rifles and single-shot rifles. The cartridge is known for its effectiveness in taking down large animals, making it a favorite for big game hunting.