The Magnum Research BFR Long Cylinder in .45-70 Government is a single-action revolver with a 7.5-inch barrel and brushed stainless steel frame. The .45-70 is a cartridge traditionally associated with lever-action rifles; putting it in a revolver format produces a powerful hunting sidearm with substantial recoil. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Magnum Research 
• Model: BFR Long Cylinder 
• Caliber: .45-70 GOVT 
• Action: Single Action Only (SAO) 
• Capacity: 5 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 7.5 inches 
• Overall Length: 15 inches 
• Weight: 4.3 lbs (68.8 oz) 
• Sights: Fixed Front & Adjustable Rear 
• Grip Material: Black Rubber 
• Finish: Brushed Stainless Steel 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The 7.5-inch barrel gives adequate velocity for the .45-70 cartridge and provides a stable sight radius. The long cylinder accommodates the .45-70 case length, which exceeds standard revolver dimensions. 
 
Brushed stainless steel holds up to outdoor use without the maintenance demands of a blued finish. Adjustable rear sight allows tuning for different loads. Black rubber grip helps manage the heavy recoil of full-power .45-70 loads. Trigger pull weight runs 4 to 5 lbs, consistent with single-action operation. The transfer bar safety prevents discharge without a trigger pull.

The BFR .45-70 Govt draws a blend of enthusiasm and practical caution from owners and enthusiasts:

The caliber is the central talking point. Seeing a rifle cartridge chambered in a revolver draws genuine curiosity, and hunters who need stopping power at close range against large game find the combination appealing.

Build quality gets consistent praise. The stainless construction and smooth action earn positive comments, with owners noting the revolver handles heavy loads reliably when maintained.

Recoil is acknowledged directly and honestly in most discussions. The .45-70 in a 4.3-lb revolver produces substantial felt recoil, and experienced owners caution that it is not a beginner platform. Extended sessions become physically demanding for most shooters.

Practical use cases come up frequently. Many owners regard it as a niche tool well-suited to specific hunting scenarios or as a range conversation piece, rather than a general-purpose handgun. The comparison to conventional handguns is a regular discussion point, with realistic assessments of what the .45-70 format adds and what it demands.