The .45-70 Government is a legendary cartridge with a history stretching from the buffalo plains to modern-day hunting fields. Known for its significant power and authority at close to moderate ranges, it demands a riflescope that can handle its unique recoil impulse while being perfectly suited to its effective distance. Choosing the wrong optic can be a costly mistake, both for your wallet and your shooting experience.
Whether you’re hunting dense woods for boar or pursuing larger game like bear and elk, the right scope enhances your rifle’s capabilities without being overbuilt. The ideal choice balances a wide field of view for quick target acquisition with enough magnification for a precise shot when you need it. Our selection guide for 2025 focuses on durability, optical clarity, and features that match the .45-70’s specific role.
Our Top Picks for .45-70 Riflescopes
1) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2–7×32 is a frequently recommended, low-to-mid magnification scope that’s a great match for lever-action and single-shot .45-70 rifles where you want quick target acquisition at close to mid ranges. Its 2–7× range keeps the tube short and the eye relief forgiving, which helps with heavy recoil rifles. The Crossfire II line uses fully multi-coated lenses for good light transmission in hunting conditions and a robust single-piece tube that’s nitrogen-purged for fogproof/waterproof performance.
What makes it attractive for .45-70 shooters is the simple, rugged design and Vortex’s lifetime VIP warranty — you get solid mechanics and usable glass at a very approachable price point. It’s also commonly available in scout/forward-mount configurations if you need a forward-mounted setup for certain lever actions. Check the Amazon page for the exact reticle and mounting options that fit your rifle.
Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BYZ7Q15Q?tag=qiufanghe-20
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Riflescope
Leupold’s VX-Freedom 3–9×40 is a classic hunting magnification range that matches the typical effective distances for a .45-70 rifle. Built with Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, it delivers reliable brightness, contrast and low-glare performance in dawn/dusk hunting windows — which is where heavy-caliber hunting often happens. The 3–9× range is versatile: lower power for brush or close shots, and higher power for deliberate shots at longer yardages out to the practical limits of the cartridge.
Leupold scopes are known for very reliable mechanicals and exceptional shock resistance (important with heavy recoil), plus a lifetime guarantee. The VX-Freedom balances optical quality and ruggedness at a mid-range price point; if you want warranty peace of mind and proven field performance on your .45-70 hunting rifle, this is a straightforward, dependable choice.
Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BCQ6V1RF?tag=qiufanghe-20
3) Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10×44 Riflescope
The Vortex Viper HS 2.5–10×44 is a higher-end option with a wider magnification range (2.5–10×) that still starts low for fast engagements but gives extra reach when you need it. The 30 mm one-piece tube and quality erector system provide extra elevation/windage travel — handy if you plan to push the .45-70 out a bit farther or if you need to dial for different loads. The Viper HS series also offers excellent eye box forgiveness, which helps you reacquire the sight picture quickly after recoil.
Optically it’s a step up from budget scopes, with good resolution and usable light transmission at dawn/dusk. Vortex’s build quality and warranty (VIP) add confidence for heavy-recoiling rifles. If your budget allows and you want more flexibility in the magnification range while keeping strong mechanics, the Viper HS is a strong all-around hunting scope for .45-70s.
Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003AQMYIC?tag=qiufanghe-20
4) Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield II (3–9×40) is a long-standing favorite among hunters who want rugged performance and excellent value. Burris scopes in this line use Hi-Lume multi-coatings and a sturdy one-piece tube design; they’re built to withstand recoil and environmental stress while delivering good clarity in the field. The 3–9× range is an ideal compromise for brush and open-country hunting with the .45-70.
Burris also offers a strong warranty (“Forever Warranty”) and practical, shooter-friendly reticle options. If you want a durable, proven optic that won’t break the bank but still handles heavy recoil well, the Fullfield II is a sensible, field-tested choice. Review the Amazon listing for the exact reticle version and current availability.
Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000MM2QSK?tag=qiufanghe-20
5) Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 Dusk & Dawn Bright Riflescope
Bushnell’s Banner 3–9×40 (Dusk & Dawn Bright) focuses on maximizing brightness in marginal light — useful for early-morning or late-evening hunts with a .45-70. The DDB multi-coated lens treatments are designed to improve light transmission during those critical low-light windows. The Banner line is positioned as a value-oriented optic that still offers nitrogen purging (fogproof/waterproof) and serviceable mechanicals for recurring recoil.
For budget-minded hunters who want an optic that performs well at dawn/dusk and can stand up to big-bore recoil, the Banner 3–9×40 is an economical option with proven field use. Always double-check the Amazon page for the exact reticle and whether the version includes rings or mounting hardware if you need a package.
Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD95C7LJ?tag=qiufanghe-20
How to Choose the Best Scope for Your 45-70 Rifle
Selecting the right optic for your 45-70 Government rifle isn’t just about magnification; it’s about matching the scope to the rifle’s personality and your intended use. This cartridge, known for its significant recoil and classic power, demands a scope that can handle the punishment while performing perfectly in the field. I always start by considering what I’ll be doing with the rifle most often.
For a brush gun used in thick timber at close ranges, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) or a fixed 2x or 4x scope is my go-to. It gives me a wide field of view for fast target acquisition. If I’m planning to stretch the legs of the 45-70 for hunting in more open terrain, a scope with a top end of 6x to 9x is incredibly useful. The key is to avoid over-scoping; you don’t need a massive 6-24×50 scope for a cartridge that shines inside 200 yards.
The next non-negotiable factor is durability. The 45-70 generates sharp, heavy recoil that can destroy scopes not built for it. I look for scopes that are shockproof and, just as importantly, have a reputation for holding zero under heavy recoil. A robust one-piece tube construction is a must. Fogging and waterproofing are also critical; I ensure any scope I consider is nitrogen or argon purged and has an IPX7 waterproof rating or better. I don’t want my hunt ruined because my optic filled with moisture.
Finally, let’s talk about the reticle and eye relief. A simple, uncluttered duplex reticle is often perfect for the quick shots this rifle is known for. For those considering longer shots, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle calibrated for heavy, slow-moving bullets can be a great help. Most importantly, generous eye relief is a safety feature on a hard-kicking rifle like the 45-70. I prefer scopes with at least 3.5 to 4 inches of eye relief to keep the scope from “biting” my eyebrow during recoil. Getting the right scope for your 45-70 rifle makes this classic firearm even more effective and enjoyable to shoot. This selection guide for the top 8 best scope for 45-70 rifles 2025 is built on these core principles.
FAQ
What magnification scope is best for a 45-70?
For most 45-70 applications, I find a low to medium magnification range works best. A 1-4x, 1-6x, 2-7x, or 3-9x scope covers almost all realistic scenarios. If your hunting is exclusively in dense woods at under 100 yards, a 1-4x or even a fixed 2x power is fast and effective. For mixed environments where you might take a shot out to 150-200 yards, the 2-7x or 3-9x range gives you the versatility you need without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
Can a normal rifle scope handle 45-70 recoil?
Not all of them can. The 45-70, especially in lighter rifles or with heavy hunting loads, produces a unique, punishing recoil impulse that can quickly damage internals and cause a scope to lose zero. You should specifically look for scopes marketed as being built for heavy-recoiling rifles. Many manufacturers design scopes tested on cartridges like the .458 Winchester Magnum, which is a good sign they can handle the 45-70. Don’t put a cheap, lightweight scope designed for a .223 on your 45-70.
Is a scout scope a good option for a 45-70?
Yes, a scout scope can be an excellent match, particularly if your rifle is set up with a long eye relief (LER) rail. Scout scopes are designed to be mounted forward of the action, which provides two main benefits on a 45-70: it allows for faster loading and unloading of the rifle (a big plus for lever-actions), and it positions the scope further from your eye, enhancing safety by reducing the chance of scope eye from the sharp recoil.
What is the ideal eye relief for a 45-70 scope?
I always recommend seeking a scope with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief, and 4 inches or more is even better. The violent rearward thrust of the 45-70 means your head and the scope can meet with significant force if the eye relief is too short. Ample eye relief is one of the most critical safety and comfort features when selecting an optic for this powerful cartridge.
Are illuminated reticles necessary on a 45-70 scope?
They are not necessary, but they can be very helpful. An illuminated reticle, especially a simple red dot in the center, can make a huge difference during the low-light conditions of dawn and dusk when big game is often most active. It helps you place your shot accurately when a traditional black reticle might fade into the shadows. For a woods gun, this feature is often worth the extra cost.