IPSC you are right about the trajectory. And yes you are right about the 243 probably being a better choice if hunting between 200 and 400 yards for obvious reasons. I will also admit that it takes alot more (100 times)work and shooting to be effective with the 45-70. But to me that is the fun of it.

I still believe the 45-70 is far superior in the woods for "Deer". Especially in a fast handling lever.

As far as 1000 yard shooting is concerned. **LL no I can not shoot mine that far. But at 200 yards, off handed, and with open sights, I will dot your I's. I have been to long distance shoots-600 yards and beyond. And believe me those old boys can shoot. You can find articles on the net about those shoots. Look up those shoots, and you will be amazed.

And yes those big bullets will hold their energy way out there. And yes I also believe that some of those buffalo shooters were hitting what they were aiming at. It is hard to spray and pray with a single shot. Tom.