JamesB
Regarding hoses and chains....
You actually included this additional "all comers" line as part of your first post and it is not being mentioned in your "replay of events post" just above....
.... For anyone has has any doubt about the 45-70's ability to take big tough critters....
"For anyone" .... I think that would include someone like me and others.
".... any doubt...." I think that would include opposing viewpoints.
Especially since we are talking about a game animal nick-named "Black Death"
For standard everyday use by ordinary citizens for taking Cape Buffalo (not doing "stunt" work), I have some serious doubts about promoting (directly or indirectly) the use of 45-70's for such a potentially life altering task.
On the other hand, if this is a "sing the praises of the 45-70" party/thread with opposing views not welcome, then I have made a mistake.
Good Luck and Good Hunting,
EKM