Barnes Originals Bullets .45/70 .458" 400 Gr Fnsp 50/Ct
The Barnes Originals .45/70 .458" 400 Gr Fnsp bullet is a proven copper-alloy round with deep roots in American hunting and handloading. Built on a design that dates back to 1939, this bullet earned its reputation among professional hunters who needed reliable, consistent performance shot after shot. If you're reloading for a .45/70 rifle—whether for hunting medium to large game or precision shooting—Barnes Originals deliver the straightforward performance that made them a standard long before modern marketing took over.
The 400-grain flat-nose soft-point design reflects what serious hunters actually needed: controlled expansion and weight retention on game. Barnes manufactures these bullets by pressure-forming pure copper around a pure lead core, a process that creates a strong, uniform construction. On impact, Originals typically expand to more than 200 percent of their original diameter while retaining 70 to 90 percent of their original weight—ballistic behavior that translates to reliable energy transfer and controlled penetration in the field.
Each box contains 50 bullets, giving handloaders a manageable quantity for developing loads and testing. The flat-nose profile is particularly suited to tubular magazines common in lever-action rifles chambered in .45/70, and the .458" diameter fits that cartridge's standard specifications. Whether you're stocking up for the season or working up a new load, these bullets represent a straightforward choice backed by nearly a century of field history.
Key Features
- Pure copper construction pressure-formed around pure lead core
- 400-grain flat-nose soft-point design
- Controlled expansion to 200+ percent original diameter
- 70–90% weight retention on impact
- 50 bullets per box
- Proven design with deep heritage in American hunting
Specifications
| Caliber | .45/70 |
| Bullet Diameter | .458" |
| Weight | 400 grains |
| Style | Flat-Nose Soft-Point (Fnsp) |
| Count | 50 bullets per box |
| Core Material | Pure lead |
| Jacket Material | Pure copper |
Frequently Asked Questions
What rifles can I use these .45/70 bullets in?
These .458" diameter bullets are designed for .45/70 rifles, which includes lever-action rifles like the Marlin 1895 and Henry rifles, as well as single-shot and modern bolt-action rifles chambered in .45/70. The flat-nose profile is particularly compatible with tubular magazines. Always verify that your specific rifle's chamber and magazine design are suitable for .45/70 ammunition before loading.
Are Barnes Originals suitable for hunting?
Yes. The 400-grain flat-nose soft-point design and proven expansion characteristics (200%+ diameter expansion with 70–90% weight retention) make these bullets well-suited for hunting. They were the preferred choice of professional hunters historically and remain a solid option for hunters seeking reliable field performance.
How many bullets come in a box?
Each box contains 50 bullets, giving handloaders a practical quantity for load development, testing, or seasonal hunting preparation.
What makes Barnes Originals different from modern bullets?
Barnes Originals use a pressure-formed pure copper and pure lead construction—a design that has remained essentially unchanged since 1939. They prioritize simplicity and proven field reliability over modern features or marketing. If you value straightforward, time-tested ballistic performance over premium finishes or exotic designs, these bullets deliver that philosophy.

