Barnes Originals Semi-Spitzer Bullets .45-70 Gov .458" 300 Gr Sssp 50/Ct
The Barnes Originals Semi-Spitzer .45-70 Gov bullets bring decades of reloading heritage to the handloader seeking reliable, hard-hitting performance in one of America's most iconic rifle cartridges. Since their introduction in 1939, Barnes Originals have been the choice of serious hunters and precision reloaders who refuse to compromise on accuracy or terminal performance. These 300-grain projectiles are built from solid lead cores wrapped in pressure-formed 100 percent copper tubing, a construction method that delivers the consistency and durability handloaders depend on.
What sets these .458" semi-spitzer bullets apart is their proven terminal behavior: they expand to over 200 percent of their original diameter on impact while retaining up to 90 percent of their initial weight. That combination of controlled expansion and weight retention translates to deep penetration and reliable energy transfer on game at typical .45-70 hunting ranges. The flat-base design pairs well with lever-action rifles and single-shots alike, giving you flexibility in loading for your specific rifle and hunting conditions.
Whether you're loading for whitetail, elk, or reaching out with a modern inline muzzleloader in .45-70, Barnes Originals demand attention to detail and respect for the cartridge's capabilities—but reward that effort with bullets that perform when it counts. Each box of 50 gives you a solid supply for testing loads and getting to the field.
Key Features
- 100 percent copper tubing construction for consistency and durability
- Solid lead core for weight and impact performance
- Semi-spitzer profile with flat base, optimized for lever-action and single-shot rifles
- Expands to over 200 percent of original diameter on impact
- Retains up to 90 percent of initial weight for deep penetration
- 50-count box—ideal for load development and hunting
Specifications
| Caliber | .45-70 Gov |
| Bullet Diameter | .458" |
| Weight | 300 grains |
| Bullet Style | Semi-Spitzer, Flat Base |
| Construction | Pressure-formed 100% copper tubing, solid lead core |
| Count | 50 per box |
Frequently Asked Questions
What rifles are these bullets designed for?
Barnes Originals .45-70 bullets work in any rifle chambered for .45-70 Government, including lever-action rifles, single-shot rifles, and modern .45-70 rifles. The flat-base, semi-spitzer design is particularly well-suited to lever-actions and has been trusted in them for generations.
Will these bullets expand reliably at typical hunting ranges?
Yes. These bullets are designed to expand over 200 percent of their original diameter on impact while retaining up to 90 percent of their weight, making them well-suited for hunting applications where controlled expansion and penetration are important.
Are these bullets appropriate for handloading beginners?
Barnes Originals are built for handloaders of all experience levels, though the .45-70 cartridge itself demands respect and careful load development. If you're new to reloading, start with published loads and invest time in understanding your specific rifle and powders.
What comes in the box?
Each box contains 50 Barnes Originals Semi-Spitzer bullets in .458" diameter, 300 grains, ready for sizing and loading to your specifications.

