Description
Taylor’s 1885 High Wall Break Open 45-70 Government 30″ 1 Walnu is a modern single-shot rifle built on the classic 1885 High Wall action. It’s a purpose-built, budget-friendly platform for the powerful 45-70 Government cartridge, offering traditional aesthetics and modern manufacturing at a practical price point of $899.01. This rifle is designed for the shooter who values a deliberate, accurate shot over rapid fire, making it a solid choice for hunting, target shooting, or historical reenactment.
Key Features
- Classic High Wall Action: Robust, single-shot design known for strength and inherent accuracy.
- 45-70 Government Chambering: Handles a wide range of loads from mild cowboy action to potent modern hunting rounds.
- 30″ Barrel: Long sight radius for precision iron sight work and optimal velocity for the cartridge.
- Walnut Stock: Traditional single-piece stock offering a classic look and feel.
- Break-Open Design: Simple, safe, and easy to load and unload directly into the chamber.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 30 inches |
| Action | Single Shot, Break Open |
| Stock | 1 Walnut |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Blade Front (typical) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46 inches |
The rifle’s 30-inch barrel is a key spec, providing a significant boost to muzzle velocity compared to shorter-barreled 45-70s—think an extra 100-150 fps, which translates to flatter trajectory and more energy on target. That said, it’s a long gun, so handling in dense brush requires consideration. The walnut stock is typically a straightforward, no-frills finish that fits out of the box, requiring no immediate gunsmithing for basic use. The break-open action is about as simple as it gets; it’s strong, reliable, and easy to inspect. This platform is compatible with a wide array of aftermarket sights, including tang sights from brands like Marble’s Arms, allowing you to tailor it to your shooting style without breaking the bank.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Taylor’s 1885 is for the budget-conscious traditionalist or the hunter wanting a dedicated, accurate tool. It’s ideal for Missouri whitetail hunters in open timber or fields, black powder cartridge silhouette shooters, or anyone who appreciates the discipline of a single-shot. It’s not a fast-handling brush gun, but a deliberate, stable platform. If you’re the type who measures success by the quality of a single shot rather than the quantity in a magazine, this rifle delivers serious bang-for-your-buck. At just under $900, it undercuts many other modern reproductions and custom builds by a significant margin.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent value for a classic design. The 45-70 Gov’t is incredibly versatile. The long barrel maximizes cartridge potential. Simple, robust action with minimal parts. The classic look is timeless. Often more accurate than lever-actions in the same caliber.
Cons: It’s a long, heavy rifle—not quick to maneuver. Single-shot capacity is a major limitation for some uses. Recoil with full-power loads can be stout. The basic walnut may have plain grain. You’re trading convenience and speed for cost and simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern, smokeless 45-70 hunting loads?
A: Yes, but check the specific manufacturer’s specifications. Modern reproductions like this Taylor’s 1885 are generally built to handle SAAMI-spec smokeless pressures for the 45-70 Government, which includes many modern hunting loads. Always start with manufacturer-recommended loads.
Q: Is it suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, with the right mentorship. The single-shot action is safe and simple to learn, and shooting a powerful cartridge like the 45-70 teaches recoil management. However, the cost of ammunition and the significant recoil with full-power loads mean starting with lighter “cowboy” loads is a smart, budget-friendly way to practice.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With its solid action and long, rigid barrel, the platform is inherently accurate. Most shooters can expect 1.5 to 2.5 MOA with quality factory ammunition or handloads it likes—more than sufficient for hunting at reasonable ranges. The limiting factor is often the shooter’s ability with iron sights.
Look, if you want a no-nonsense, historically-inspired rifle that puts the focus on shooting fundamentals, the Taylor’s 1885 High Wall presents a compelling case. It’s a straightforward tool that gets the job done without frivolity. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, where FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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