The 45-70 is a great deer cartridge. I have excellent results with the Winchester 300 gr JHP. This bullet penetrates to handle shots from any angle.

This bullet punches a big hole, but b/c of the low velocity (1880 fps) there is no shock blood extending from the wound.

The trajectory with this ammo is flat enough, that if you zero it 2" high at 100 yds, it'll still strike home at 200 yds. if you place the crosshairs on the top of a deer's back.

Recoil is mild, about like a 308, but more of a push than a punch.

If you hit the shoulder, the deer will drop on the spot. If you hit the heart or lungs, they will run a short ways, but not far at all, and bleed profusely.

I have a 4x fixed scope on my 1895. It is my 2nd favorite deer rifle. The 308 is my first.

If you get a 45-70 you will be very pleased. It is an awesome deer rifle.